Converting HDV to Blu ray, Digital and DVD
Including HDV to Digital, DVD, MP4, AVI, MOV, Mac, usb, mp3 and Blu ray transfers - San DiegoHDV conversion service
How do you watch or transfer HDV tapes to blu ray, digital file or DVD without an HDV camcorder or vcr if you no longer have one? They stopped making HDV camcorders years ago and it’s getting harder to find one in good working condition.
HDV tapes start to degrade 7-10 years after video is recorded on them. With every year that goes by there is a risk of video information disappearing from the tape. The time to convert your videos is now before that happens.
We convert HDV tapes to Blu ray, DVD, Gold Archival DVDs, CD, usb and digital files including MP4, MP3, AVI and MOV for editing or uploading to the web.
For videos from other countries we can transfer from PAL HDV to NTSC Blu ray, DVD, digital, usb, MP4, MP3, MOV or AVI.
What makes our HDV to digital, HDV to blu ray and HDV to DVD conversion service better?
All HDV transfers performed in our studio – Faster Service
We never send our clients’ family memories overseas or to any other transfer factory. All video transfer orders are done right here in our San Diego studio. This enables us to provide a better quality transfer and faster turnaround than most other companies. Most orders are completed in less than 2 weeks, many within a few days!
Professional VCRs produce better transfers
Professional VCRs have better video heads and circuitry that helps keep the image more stable and consistant. They are more dependable than using a hdv camcorder.
Your family’s recorded memories cannot be replaced and we feel your videos deserve to be converted with the best quality possible.
Pricing based on actual length of the video
Most transfer services will charge you the same price per tape, whether your video is 2 hours or 5 minutes. HDV tapes tend to run 60 minutes or less so you can save some money since our flexible pricing is based on the actual length of each tape. You’ll save with our flexible pricing that is based on the actual length of each tape. Bring in all of your videos and save even more with our volume packages.
Digital conversion to MP4, AVI and MOV
Sunray was one of the first companies to provide DVD to digital conversion service. After converting your video to MP4, AVI or MOV files, they can be put onto a USB flash drive or external hard drive for your convenience.
MP4 files are the most requested for HDV tapes. HDV videos would have to be down-converted to standard definition in order to convert to AVI or MOV.
Many places only offer MP4 versions of your videos. We offer AVI, MOV and MP4 formats for your convenience.
First to transfer video to true Archival Gold DVDs
Your family videos cannot be replaced and it’s important to preserve them as long as possible. That’s the reason we became one of the first companies to transfer HDV to Gold Archival DVDs. Their 100 year lifespan makes it one of the longest lasting media options available for saving your videos.
Volume level adjustment option
In cases where the sound is too quiet on the tape, we can raise the volume during the transfer if you choose that option. Most video transfer companies will leave the volume as it is.
These are just a few of the reasons people choose Sunray Video for transferring their videos. We’ve listed more reasons below. Very few video transfer services can match the variety, quality and fast service we provide. Our reviews say it all.
Bring in your videos today to get your FREE estimate! Or give us a call 858-578-4786
Don’t take our word for it, see what our clients had to say.
Read More Reviews
Which format is the best for transferring HDV?
To answer this we must first determine what you plan to do with your video. Do you plan to watch it on TV only, watch it on a computer or do you plan to edit the video? The following options and descriptions may help with your decision.
HDV to CD vs DVD vs Blu ray
On occasion someone may ask about converting HDV to CD. Often they are confusing CD with DVD or even blu ray as the discs all look very similar.
Converting HDV to CD
CDs are not really designed for video, they only hold up to about 700mb of information which is not a lot. Blu ray discs hold 25GB. CDs were originally designed for music, audio and data and that’s what they are best used for. If you just want the audio portion from the video then CDs are a good option, but you’ll be limited to about 70 minutes or so. CDs will play on CD, DVD and blu ray players.
Converting HDV to Blu ray
HDV is considered to be high definition video. Blu ray is the only disc format that can be used if you want to keep the high definition video quality.
Blu ray discs were created for high definition video as they hold a lot more data (25GB) than regular DVDs. The biggest disadvantage for using Blu ray discs is that they will only play on blu ray players.
Converting HDV to DVD
If you plan to watch your HDV videos on your TV but only have a DVD player then the video will have to be down-converted to standard definition in order to be put on DVD. While you will sacrifice the high def video quality it will allow the video to be played on both a regular DVD player as well as a blu ray player.
DVDs hold up to 4.7GB of information or about 2 hours of standard definition video. If you want your video on DVD we recommend putting them on a 24k Gold Archival DVD that will last longer than any other media currently available.
DVDs will play on DVD players, blu ray players and on computers equipped with a DVD drive and appropriate DVD player software.
Learn more about the difference between CD, DVD and Blu ray.
HDV to Digital vs Blu ray or DVD
Not everyone has a disc player these days, so in some cases we get requests to convert HDV to digital files. We were one of the first companies to offer this option.
HDV to Digital File Conversion (HDV to usb)
If you don’t own a DVD or Blu ray player and plan to watch your video on a computer only or you want to have the video edited, converting your HDV to a digital file may be a better choice. Your video can then be put onto a usb flash or hard drive.
Editing video from a DVD is not ideal since the video is compressed and may produce a lower quality final product. You’ll also need special software to “rip” the video from the disc into an editable file format.
Converting HDV to MP4
If you don’t have a blu ray player but want to maintain the high definition quality then MP4 is probably the best option. If you want to upload your videos to the web or share them with others an MP4 file will work well for that. Using MP4 will keep the file size smaller as this is the most compressed file format.
It us commonly used by YouTube. Many of the modern TVs have a USB port that will accommodate a flash drive and can play MP4 files.
Converting HDV to AVI or MOV (HDV to Mac)
In order to convert HDV to AVI or MOV format it will have to be down-converted to standard definition first. If you want to edit your videos in standard definition then either of these should work. AVI is a native file format for PCs and MOV is native for MACs. 1 hour of video in AVI or MOV will take 13GB of drive space.
Blu ray discs last longer than a hard drive or flash drive
If you’re thinking about storing your videos on a hard drive, keep in mind that the average lifespan for a traditional-style (spinning platter) hard drive is about 5-7 years before they crash or seize up. For this reason they are not the best option for long-term archival storage of your videos. Blu ray discs will typically last longer. For standard definition video, the Gold Archival DVDs will last even longer.
Converting HDV to MP3
Converting VHS-c to mp3 could be considered the same as converting video to audio. If you only want the audio portion from a video then mp3 is an option. If you want to keep the high definition video and audio then MP4 make more sense.
For additional information available on converting to Blu ray/DVD vs digital refer to our blog article on choosing a format for converting video to DVD or digital.
If you’re still not sure what format to get, give us a call. We’ll make sure you get what you need.
How much does it cost to transfer HDV to DVD or digital?
Most transfer firms charge a flat rate per tape regardless of the length, so you pay the same price whether it’s 5 minutes or 2 hours long. We charge different rates based on the length of the actual recorded material, as you’ll see below.
HDV tapes can hold up to 1 hour of video. A Blu ray disc can hold 2 or more HDV tapes in high definition depending on the length of the recordings. A DVD can hold 2 or more HDV tapes in standard definition depending on the length of the recordings.
The other factor in pricing is based on whether you want a Blu ray disc, DVD, Gold Archival DVD or a digital file (MP4, MOV or AVI).
HDV & Memory Card to Digital, Blu ray and DVD Pricing & Conversions Options:
We offer 5 options for transferring your video tapes to digital form:
- Conversion to Standard DVD package includes: 1 standard DVD copy.
- Conversion to Archival Gold package includes: 1 Gold 100-year Archival DVD copy and 1 standard DVD copy.
- Conversion to Blu ray package includes: 1 blu ray disc copy.
- Conversion to Digital file only package includes: Digitizing to MP4 file/s only. No DVDs in this package.
- Conversion to Blu ray & digital file package includes: Put onto 1 blu ray copy and digitized to MP4 file.
HDV
SD Card
Smart Media
| <30 minutes | <60 minutes | |
| to Standard DVD | $26/tape | $35/tape |
| to Gold DVD | $30/tape | $40/tape |
| to Blu ray | $40/tape | $50/tape |
| to MP4 file* | $30/tape | $40/tape |
| to Gold DVD & file* | $50/tape | $60/tape |
| to Blu ray & file* | $60/tape | $70/tape |
Volume discounts available for orders over 15 tapes
*Price does not include Hard drive or Flash drive.
All video transfer orders under $40 will be charged a minimum transfer charge of $40.
Additional Services Available
- Audio Level Adjustment: $6.00 per tape
- Add chapters to disc: $ 5.00 per chapter
- Additional Blu ray copies: $15.00 per disc / Get 3 copies for $42 / 5 for $65
- Additional Gold DVD copies: $15.00 per disc / Get 3 Gold copies for $42 / 5 for $65
(Each gold disc comes with a FREE standard dvd copy) - Additional Standard DVD copies: $ 10.00 per disc / Get 3 copies for $27 / Get 5 for $40
PAL HDV to NTSC Conversion
Videos produced in the United States, Canada and Mexico are usually in a format referred to as NTSC. Videos produced outside of North America may in a foreign video format referred to as PAL. We convert HDV video tapes from PAL to the NTSC format. We can also transfer NTSC videos to PAL DVDs when you need to send a DVD to another country.
| <30 minutes | <60 minutes | |
| to Standard DVD | $30/tape | $38/tape |
| to Gold DVD | $34/tape | $44/tape |
| to Blu ray | $44/tape | $54/tape |
| to MP4 file* | $34/tape | $44/tape |
| to Gold DVD & file* | $54/tape | $64/tape |
| to Blu ray & file* | $64/tape | $74/tape |
How to Order
Step 1: Make sure each tape has its own unique label on it. We will use that label for the chapter title on the DVD or the file name for a digital file. Keep the title short, less than 30 characters.
Step 2: Decide what format you want your videos converted to, DVDs or digital files (MP4, AVI or MOV). If you only want DVDs skip to Step 4.
Step 3: DIGITAL FILEs: What file format do you want them in: AVI, MOV or MP4? Will you be providing your own external USB hard drive or flash drive or do you want us to add one to the order? If you’re providing your own, don’t forget to include it with your videos. If you don’t want any DVDs skip to Step 8.
Step 4: DVDs: For transfer to DVDs: If the tapes are less than 2 hours each, do you want us to combine them to fill up each 2 hour DVD? This will conserve space in your media cabinet. Is it okay for us to split any tape over 2 discs if it will not fit?
Step 5: Number the video tapes in the order you want them to appear on the DVDs (if you have a preference).
Step 6: Decide how you want your DVDs to be labeled. How do you want it to read? This is just for your benefit so that one day in the future, when you pull out the DVD you’ll know what’s on it. (Example: Smith Family Videos)
Step 7: Do you want your videos on Gold Archival 100-year DVDs? Will you need any additional DVD copies for anyone else? How many?
Step 8: Do you have any 8mm or 16mm films you need transferred to DVD or digital files? Do you have any photos or slides you need scanned to digital files? This would be a good time to get them together and bring in with your videos.
Step 9: Now you’re ready to bring your videos to Sunray for transfer. Select the option below for dropping them off in person or ordering by mail. If you prefer to ship them to us, we recommend using a courier such as UPS or FedEx for shipping as they have good tracking systems so you’ll know where the package is at all times.
Standard Definition vs. High Definition Video
Older media formats like VHS, VHS-C, Hi-8, Digital 8 and MiniDV were all recorded in what is referred to as standard definition that has picture resolution up to 720 x 480. When converting these formats to disc, a DVD is the logical choice since the resolution will be comparable and the disc will be viewable on a DVD player, blu ray player or computer with a DVD drive and appropriate DVD player software.
Newer media formats recorded on HDV tape, memory cards or internal hard drives are capable of producing high definition video with resolutions up to 1920 x 1080. If you want to convert these formats to a disc and you want to maintain the high definition picture quality, a blu ray disc is the best option as it will keep the same resolution. Keep in mind these discs can only be played on blu ray players.
Both standard definition and high def videos can be digitized and put on both hard and flash drives with enough memory to accommodate the file size. This option may only be viewable via computer. Although some flat screen televisions equipped with a USB port may be able to play MP4 files from a flash (thumb) drive.
Why choose Sunray Video for your HDV to DVD or digital transfer?
Before you send your money and irreplaceable memories out to be converted, you’re entitled to know what’s going to happen with them. Most companies say very little about their actual transfer process or how their process compares with others. You shouldn’t have to make such an important decision based solely on price. We think there are some things you should know about our process.
Professional VCR’s make a difference
Converting video tapes to digital form using a professional VCR provides a sharper picture than a typical consumer VCR and better tracking for stabilizing the image. This is particularly helpful with older tapes where dropouts may appear. The transfer warehouses choose to use consumer level VCRs; it’s the only way they can handle the large volume they get.
Experienced Technicians and Editors
Our technicians have over 16 years of experience in converting video. We can help you determine what format you have and what format will best suit your needs. Our editors have over 22 years experience in editing video and can help you edit your video.
True 100 Year Gold Archival DVD
Do not be fooled by imitation archival DVDs. So called 100 year discs are not the same as the true Gold Archival DVD. Gold DVDs will last much longer than standard DVDs.
Transfer rates based on length of video
Our rates are determined by the length of video on each tape. You won’t be charged the full price for shorter videos like most other transfer companies.
Volume Discounts
We offer discounts based on how many tapes you bring in for transfer.
Did you know?
Magnetic video tape was only designed for 7-10 years of optimal use. After that the image quality will begin to deteriorate. As more time goes by, more information is lost in the recording.
Additional HDV Transfer Info
How many HDV tapes can fit on a Blu ray disc or DVD?
That depends on the length of the recording on each tape. Both blu ray and DVD discs will hold up to 2 hours of video. An HDV tape can hold up to 1 hour of video. You can have as many HDV tapes on a disc that will fit within the 2 hour limit.
How does the quality of the Blu ray disc, DVD or Digital file compare with the original HDV tape?
Converting HDV to Blu ray or a digital file (MP4) does not lose any quality using our transfer process. In order to transfer to DVD the video has to be “down-converted” to standard definition (a lower resolution than hi-def) first. That will mean some of the video information will be lost although it should still look pretty good.
Can a broken HDV tape be transferred?
If the tape or the cassette shell is broken, we can usually repair it prior to transfer for an additional charge.
Can the video be edited?
If there are any parts of the video that you want to have edited we recommend transferring the HDV to a digital file such as MP4. It is much easier to edit the video in this format. After the conversion, you can edit the video yourself if you have the software and know how to use it or you can have us edit it for you for an additional charge.
How long does it take to convert HDV to Blu ray, DVD or digital?
HDV conversion is a “real time” process with no way to do a high speed transfer. Our normal turnaround time can run from a day to a few weeks depending on how much video you have to convert. We’re typically faster than most transfer services. In the past we’ve heard that some places can take up to a few months to convert HDV if they even can. If the company has to send the videos out to another company for transfer then it will add a few more days to a week to the process. If that company is backlogged it will add even more time to that.
How does Walgreen’s HDV to DVD, blu ray or digital transfer compare?
Walgreens does not convert HDV at all.
How do Walmart and Costco HDV to DVD, blu ray or digital transfers compare?
Neither Walmart not Costco transfers HDV at this time.
How is HDV different than Mini DV?
HDV uses a tape format that looks very much like a Mini DV tape. The main difference is that HDV is used for recording high definition video whereas Mini DV is used for recording in standard definition.
For additional information on HDV to blu ray, DVD or digital transfers refer to our video transfer tips and FAQs.
HDV Transfer Tips and FAQs
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How long do video tapes last?
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