12-16-2014, 02:26 PM
I've done a lot of this stuff. For old VHS tapes, I just used a standalone DVD recorder and put them, unedited, onto DVDs. If you're worried about the DVD becoming unreadable, then just copy the VIDEO_TS file from the DVD to a hard drive.
For 8mm tapes, the above mentioned recommendation to get a digital 8mm camcorder is probably best. Connect it via firewire to your Mac, import right into iMovie. Thankfully, I converted all my 8mm tapes long ago because I know it's tough to find 8mm camcorders anymore, especially the more expensive digital ones.
For Mini-DV, again you should be able to import them via Firewire. I was lucky enough to get a professional DV/Mini-DV VCR at an auction years ago for $20 (at the time, it was selling for over $900 used on eBay). I've had 2 mini-DV camcorders die in the last few years, so having a VCR will help, and is much sturdier.
On a side note, I also own a Hauppauge HD-PVR, which will digitize HD video, up to 1080i. I've used it to make copies of stuff from my DirecTV DVR. it will also handle a composite signal though, so it could be used if you can't find a way to get footage into your computer via firewire.
For 8mm tapes, the above mentioned recommendation to get a digital 8mm camcorder is probably best. Connect it via firewire to your Mac, import right into iMovie. Thankfully, I converted all my 8mm tapes long ago because I know it's tough to find 8mm camcorders anymore, especially the more expensive digital ones.
For Mini-DV, again you should be able to import them via Firewire. I was lucky enough to get a professional DV/Mini-DV VCR at an auction years ago for $20 (at the time, it was selling for over $900 used on eBay). I've had 2 mini-DV camcorders die in the last few years, so having a VCR will help, and is much sturdier.
On a side note, I also own a Hauppauge HD-PVR, which will digitize HD video, up to 1080i. I've used it to make copies of stuff from my DirecTV DVR. it will also handle a composite signal though, so it could be used if you can't find a way to get footage into your computer via firewire.