I apologize for my inexperience. I did a bit of reading before starting but there is apparently something that I am not doing correctly. My goal is to back up my vhs tapes onto dvd. I bought the wintv-pvr-usb2. Installed the software. I have windows xp (not with media center). My computer is recognizing the wintv in the device manager. Now here is where my problem is starting. I have my vcr hooked up via composite (not s-video) to the wintv, the wintv hooked up to my computer via usb. WinTv2000 acknowledges the unit but there is no audio or video. Movie maker says the device is in use and won't continue. Nerovision 4 WILL play the movie, but I have no sound. (This is much better than about 5 minutes ago...nero wouldn't play it either because it said it was busy too). What do I need to change, do, or install?
I had dozens and dozens of VHS tapes to convert to DVD when I finally decided to dump the old VCR (dead tech) for good. Since most of us have many tapes to convert I wouldn't suggest using your PC. The reason being that tape has to be converted in real time meaning you will be tying up your computer for hours on end and multi-tasking while doing video projects generally isn't a good idea.
My method:
Buy either a VCR/DVD Combo recorder or a standalone DVD recorder (my choice). You're probably going to want to record future shows from TV anyway unless you have a DVR. Now you can tranfer directly from tape to disc. Many combo units will do that automatically for you. If you know the duration of the tape you can set the record time on the standalone to match or come close because the quality settings are determined in hours (e.g. EP, SP, SLP, etc.) That way there's no "babysitting" the process. Don't forget to finalize. Then put the VCR in the attic with the eight-track and cassette tape players.
Just a hint.. Buy a cheap dvd recorder.. Tevion bargain basement or similar.. The cheap ones seem to be all region, ntsc/pal and don't respect the macrovision anti copy BS. They will even finalize the disks left mucked up and open from way more expensive so called "better" recorders.
Standalone dvd recorders.. somewhere where top dollar best brands don't get you the best and most useable machines. El Cheapo FTW..
Another hint. Buy the recorder that suits your needs. If you only have shows on tape recorded from TV and some homemade from camcorder, then region code and macrovision won't be an issue. My experience with the cheap recorders is that while they will work for your basic needs, they don't last long and are quirky in operation. Skip the ones with harddrives. They are expensive and you don't need to edit on your recorder.
Look here:
http://www.amazon.com/LG-DR787T-1080i-Up...25022186&sr=8-1
Holy Crap! I just bought that at a local electronics store six months ago for $200.00. I'm buying three more for my grown up kids. It's a dandy! It does all I'll ever need.
Oops. I just had a chance to look closer. Used and refurbished are cheap. I buy new always. So the new ones are still a good buy if you can't find one locally. Kids can wait til Christmas.
