Tape Transfer Frequently Asked Questions
General Transfer Questions
Q: What format of tapes can Digitally Yours transfer?
A: We can transfer VHS, VHS-C, Video8, Hi8 and MiniDV tapes to DVD.
Q: Do you transfer reels (8mm or 4mm) of film to DVD?
A: Unfortunately we do NOT transfer reels of film to DVD.
Q: Can I combine different tape formats onto the same DVD?
A: Yes, we can combine any tape formats onto the same DVD. Keep in mind only about 2.5 hours of tape will fit on a DVD.
Q: How many tapes will fit onto one DVD?
A: We will transfer around 2 hours of video on each DVD. The length of each DVD will vary based on the length of the recorded material on the tape and how many tapes we choose to put on the DVD, but it will be around 2 hours in length.
We will likely split your 1 tape in to 2 or more DVDs if it is longer than 2 hours in length. This will produce a better quality DVD for you of your video memories and only up to 120 minutes fit on to a single DVD.
Q: Can you transfer tapes with Copyrights to DVD?
A: No, this is not possible with the equipment used by Digitally Yours, nor is it a practice we would consider.
Q: I have my original Video8 tapes and a VHS tapes with multiple of these Video8 tapes on it. Which tapes do you transfer to DVD?
A: It is always best to transfer over the original tape, not a copy. You will get the best quality from the original tape. We would only need your original tapes.
Q: Will my DVD play in any DVD player?
A: DVD players today are very standard and we find that our DVD format is compatible with over 98% of all DVD players. If you have any difficulty in playing your DVD, please contact us and we will exchange it.
Q: What quality of sound will the DVD have?
A: All tapes are transferred to DVD with Dolby Digital sound qualities. If your player does not have Dolby Digital sound, it will pay the sound at the best quality possible on your player.
Tape Problem Questions
Q: I have tapes that I wish to transfer but I don't know what is on them, how do I place an order?
A: Don't worry; we understand that in many cases you may not have the original camcorder. We will work with you to place the tapes in order before they are transferred. The tapes may have dates posted on them during the recording which will make it easy for us to see when we play them in our equipment. If this is not the case, we can transfer your tapes in a one tape per one DVD fashion. In any case, you will bring your memories home on DVD!
Q: Will I be charged if my tape turns out to be blank?
A: No, we do not charge for tapes that are completely blank and have no video to transfer on them.
Q: Do you fix broken tapes?
A: Yes, we can fix most broken tapes for a fee of $10.00 for each broken tape.
Q: Will the transfer copy look better than the tape quality.
A: No, the transfer copy will have the same quality as the original tape. It may improve slightly by our professional transferring equipment, but it will be very close to the original quality. Keep in mind that the appearance of the video also depends on the quality of the television you are viewing it on and the player you are using.
Q: Can you make a separate DVD from a just portion of a tape?
A: Yes, if you provide us with specific instructions on the portion of the tape (or event) you want on a DVD of its own. We can transfer just this portion to a DVD.
Q: Can you edit out portions of a tape?
A: Yes, should you need a portion or portions of a tape that you do not want transferred, we can edit them out completely. We would need specific instructions from you to perform this task.
Q: Will you get rid of any 'dead air' on my tape?
A: We edit out any junk and dead air on the tape before it is transferred to DVD. There is no extra charge for this service.
Other Questions
Q: Are the finished DVDs in DVD cases?
A: Yes, you get a choice of either the standard DVD case or a clam shell case. See pricing for more details. Your DVD will also have colored labels and the DVD cases will have a custom colored designed insert.
Q: Do you chapter my DVD?
A: Yes, 5 minute chapter marks are automatically added to your DVD. When you advance your DVD from your remote, it will jump ahead five minutes at a time. This is how chapters work.
Q: How will my DVD be titled?
A: We will title your tape according to your instructions on the Video Transfer Order Form. We may need to shorten the title to fit within the given title options. The title should contain the year and a short description of the contents of the tape.
Q: What is the typically turnaround time?
A: Normal turnaround time for video transfer is 2 weeks. If your project is more complex or very large, this will add to the turnaround time and cause it to be closer to 3 weeks. Other factors which can cause longer turnaround time is the complexity of your order, our current workload, and the time of the year (wedding months, graduations, etc).
Q: How can I safeguard my tapes during shipping?
A: If you are in the local area, we will meet and exchange your material. If you are outside of the local area, you will mail your items to our studio - please follow these guidelines:
1) Send your package with a trackable carrier, such as USPS, UPS or Fed Ex and you may want to consider putting insurance on it.
2) Use padded materials to protect your valuable items during shipping. And we suggest you place your items in zip lock bags to protect against moisture.
3) Be certain to place the Video Transfer Order Form in the box with your materials.
4) Finally, wrap your entire order in padded material, such as bubble wrap before placing it in a sturdy box for added protection during shipping.
Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We accept personal checks and money orders. Pay Pal is coming soon.
Q: When is my payment due?
A: Payment will be due upon completion of the project. Please contact us if you have any questions.