Video to DVD and Digital Transfer
Converting VHS, VHS-C, Hi8 and MiniDV Video to DVD, CD, MP4, MP3, MOV, AVI and Blu ray - San DiegoVideo tape conversion to DVD and Digital - Digital Media Transfer
When it’s time to transfer your videos to DVD or digital files you have some 
decisions to make. The best place to start is determining what you plan to do with the converted videos. Are they just for watching on your TV using a DVD or blu ray player or on your computer instead? Do you want to be able to edit the videos?
When we started back in 1996, VHS was the only video format that mattered. Today there are a lot more options for video formats: DVD, blu ray, mp4, avi, mov, high definition, 1080p, 720p and 4K, just to name a few.
We convert VHS, VHS-c, video 8, Hi8, digital 8 and Mini DV to DVD, CD, blu ray, usb and digital files including MP4, MP3, MOV and AVI for editing or uploading to the web. We also transfer Super-VHS, MiniDVD discs, HDV, Betamax, DVCAM and Betacam tapes.
We can transfer from DVD to VHS and from DVD to MP4, MOV, AVI, usb, PC and Mac computers. Conversion from camcorder memory cards and hard drives are available as well.
For videos from other countries we can transfer from PAL recordings in VHS, VHS-c, Video 8, Hi8, Digital 8, Mini DV, HDV, DVCAM and DVD format. We also convert videos to PAL DVDs and PAL Blu ray in case you need to send a disc overseas.
What makes our video to DVD and video to digital conversion service better?
All video transfers performed in our studio – Faster Service
We never send our clients’ family memories overseas or to any other transfer factory. All video to DVD and digital 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 Equipment
We’ve had several clients bring in video transfers, done by another company, that were not very good. On one occasion, we noticed the image quality was so blurry that you could not recognize many of the people in the video, their faces were just fuzzy blotches. When we checked the original tape, it was obvious the image was much clearer. We converted their videos using our professional equipment and were able to match the quality of the tape, achieving a much better result than the other company. This made our client very happy.
We use professional equipment for our transfers. 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. You’ll save with our flexible pricing that is based on the actual length of each of your tapes. 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 video 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.
AVI and MOV files offer the best quality. MP4 files are more compact as they are compressed to 1/10 the size of AVI or MOV. AVI and MOV are also better for editing purposes should you decide to do that.
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 video 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
If you have a tape where the volume is too low, 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
Video to CD vs DVD vs Blu ray
A lot of people ask about converting video to CD. Often they are confusing CD with DVD.
Converting Video to CD
CDs are not really designed for video, they only hold up to about 700mb of information which is not a lot. 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 Video to DVD
When movies first became available on disc they were put on DVDs. DVDs hold up to 4.7GB of information or about 2 hours of video. This is the ideal format for converting VHS, VHS-c, video 8, hi8, digital 8 and mini DV to disc. DVDs will play on DVD and blu ray players.
Learn more about the difference between CD, DVD and Blu ray.
Converting Video to Blu ray
Blu ray discs were created for high definition video. VHS, VHS-c, betamax, 8mm video and mini dv tapes are considered standard definition so there isn’t really any significant benefit for putting them on a blu ray disc. Blu ray would be a better choice for HDV or hi-def camcorder footage. Blu ray discs will only play on blu ray players.
Converting video to DVD vs Digital
Not everyone has a disc player these days, so we get a lot of requests to convert video to digital files such as MP4, MOV and AVI. These files can be put onto a usb flash drive or external hard drive. We were one of the first companies to offer this option.
We’ve posted an article that covers various options and their benefits that may help you decide whether to convert your video to DVD or digital file. We want to be sure you receive the best format to fit your needs. If you have any questions or need additional help just give us a call.
Did you know that 8mm video and 8mm film are not the same?
Many people confuse 8mm film with 8mm video which can lead to getting the wrong pricing and information on transfers. If you’re not sure whether you have video or film check out our post on the difference between 8mm film and 8mm video.
Do you know the difference between VHS-c tapes and 8mm video tapes?
Even though the tapes used for each video format is similar in size they are quite different. VHS-C tapes are thicker, the same width as regular VHS tapes which makes it possible to play these tapes in a VHS vcr with the use of a VHS-c adapter. 8mm tapes are thinner than VHS-C tapes. There is no adapter for this tape, so they will not play in a VHS vcr.
Converting video to mp3
Converting video to mp3 would be considered the same as converting video to audio. If you only want the audio portion from a video then mp3 is a good option. If you want to keep the video with the audio then MP4 is a better choice. Mp4 is ideal for digitizing video to smaller files; which is why it’s the preferred format for YouTube videos.
Video to DVD and Digital Pricing and Transfer Options
We offer 4 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 Archival Gold DVD copy and 1 standard DVD copy.
- Conversion to Digital file only package includes: Digitizing to AVI, MOV or MP4 file/s. No DVDs in this package.
- Conversion to Gold DVD & digital file package includes: Put onto 1 Gold 100-year Archival DVD copy, 1 standard DVD copy and digitized to AVI, MOV or MP4 file.
Current turn-around time for video to DVD & digital transfers can run from 1 day to a few weeks depending on how much video you have.
VHS, VHS-C, Video 8mm, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV to DVD and Digital Conversion
VHS
VHS-C
Hi8Tape
Mini DV
| <30 minutes | <60 minutes | <120 minutes | |
| to Standard DVD | $16/tape | $20/tape | $25/tape |
| to Gold DVD | $20/tape | $24/tape | $30/tape |
| to AVI/MOV/MP4 | $20/tape* | $26/tape* | $34/tape* |
| to Gold DVD & file | $34/tape* | $42/tape* | $54/tape* |
Volume discounts available for orders over 15 tapes.
*Price does not include Hard drive or Flash drive.
All video to DVD and digital transfer orders under $40 will be charged a minimum transfer charge of $40.
Additional Services Available
- Adjust audio volume levels: $6.00 per tape
- Digitize to 2nd file type: $ 10.00 per hour of video per tape
- 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
HDV and Memory SD Card Conversion
HDV
SD Card
| <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 |
Volume discounts available for orders over 15 tapes
*Price does not include Hard drive or Flash drive.
All video to DVD and digital transfer orders under $40 will be charged a minimum transfer charge of $40.
PAL Video Format 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 VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, video 8, Hi8, Digital8, MiniDV, DVCAM video tapes and even DVDs 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.
We also convert PAL video files such as AVI, MOV and MP4.
PAL: VHS, VHS-C, Video 8, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV to DVD and Digital Conversion
| <30 minutes | <60 minutes | <120 minutes | |
| to Standard DVD | $20/tape | $26/tape | $33/tape |
| to Gold DVD | $24/tape | $30/tape | $38/tape |
| to AVI/MOV/MP4* | $24/tape | $32/tape | $42/tape |
| to Gold DVD & file* | $38/tape | $48/tape | $62/tape |
How to Order - (Click Here for Instructions)
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.
We also transfer from camcorders, flash drives, memory cards Power Point and more.
SD Card
Smart Media
Compact Flash
Memory Stick
MultiMeida Card
xD Picture Card
Flash Drive
Why choose Sunray Video for your video 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.
All transfers are performed in our studio
All video to DVD and digital transfers are performed in our facility by our staff. We will never send your memories out to another company. This also helps us get your videos back to you faster.
One of the fastest transfer services available
We offer one of the fastest video and digital media conversion services available. Most of our transfers take from a few days to a few weeks instead of 3 weeks to 3 months like many other firms.
Professional VCR’s make a difference
Converting video using a professional VCR provides a sharper picture than a typical consumer VCR and has 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 VCR’s; it’s the only way they can handle the large volume they get.
Experienced Technicians and Editors
Our technicians have over 17 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.
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.
Transfers from Video to Digital files
Your videos can be converted to MP4, AVI or MOV for editing, sharing or uploading to the web. Transfer to MP3 also available for the audio portion only.
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.
Videos may be combined to save space
We can combine your shorter video tapes onto fewer DVDs, so it will take up less space in your media cabinet.
Volume Discounts
We offer discounts based on how many tapes you bring in for transfer.
All videos returned
You’ll receive all your video tapes back in their original condition.
Videotapes repair
We can repair damaged video tapes if needed.
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.
Video FAQs
How long do video tapes last?
Most video tapes are near the end of their life-cycle. VHS, VHS-c, 8mm, Video 8, Hi8, Digital 8, MiniDV, Betamax and other magnetic-based video tapes will only maintain their original picture quality for about 7-10 years after they have been recorded on. After that, every year the recorded images begin to literally disappear.
The longer you wait to transfer your home videos to DVD or digital, the more information from the picture and sound that will be lost. There have been cases where the material had literally fallen off the video tape and you could see the pieces laying inside the tape shell.
Some tapes have mold on the tape inside the shell that can lead to major issues. As a result of humidity and mold buildup, some tapes may have a problem of the tape sticking to itself as if “melted” together. As the tape is pulled from the hub it begins to tear and break. Repeated tearing of the tape makes it impracticle to attempt to play or transfer.
Not many VCRs left that still work
Most households today no longer have a VCR or camcorder to be able to play any of these videos and they have discontinued making the players and the parts to fix them. Every year more of the remaining video players are donated for recycling or sent to landfills, reducing the ability to play or convert family memories to an alternative media format.
8mm, Hi-8, and Digital-8 video camcorders may be hard to find
Sony, the creator of the 8mm, Hi8, and Digital 8 tape formats discontinued production of all of their 8mm camcorder models years ago.
During the lifespan of the 8mm videotape formats there were relatively few video players produced that would play any of the 8mm video formats, so most consumers had to use their cameras in order to view the tapes on their television screens.
The cost of repairing an 8mm camcorder was nearly that of purchasing a new one, so when it ceased to function, it was usually thrown away. This leaves us with few fully-functioning 8mm videotape players that are necessary in order to transfer 8mm videos to DVD or digital. And very few repair shops are able to obtain parts to repair the players that are still around.
Can broken tapes be repaired and still be transferred?
Don’t let this happen to your tapes
If you play a video tape in a VCR that is malfunctioning or has a dirty tape path, you may find your tape damaged like this, if you’re able to retrieve it at all. We fix all types of video tapes, from broken and crumpled tape to a defective shell.
This is one of the dangers that can happen when you transfer videos to DVD using an old or cheap VCR. Or you may experience tracking problems due to a worn out tape or VCR. Our professional transfer machines will often lock any sync the signal for a smoother transfer.
Are DVDs obsolete?
Not yet. Blu ray was the next format introduced after DVD and blu ray players were built to be able to play DVDs as well as blu ray discs. Since they are still selling blu ray movies, the players should be around for awhile longer.
You’ve probably heard about the newer “4K” televisions that came out a few years ago. In order to provide more 4K content for these TVs, many movies are being sold on 4k blu ray discs. Of course you need a 4k blu ray player in order to play them. The good news is that these newer 4k players will also play standard blu ray discs and DVDs.
So you don’t need to worry about the format becoming “extinct” any time soon.
Video Transfer Tips and Additional FAQs
What is an Archival Gold DVD?
Inside every DVD and CD is a reflective layer of material, usually made of some type of metal composite, that helps the DVD (or CD) player to read the information contained on the disc. A Gold DVD is a DVD that uses 24k gold as the reflective layer within the disc....
DVD or Digital, which is better for converting film or video?
When you're ready to convert your 8mm film, super 8 film, 16mm film, vhs tapes, Hi8 tapes or vhs c tapes, you'll need to decide if you want them on DVD, digital (file) or both. By digital file I am referring to a digital video file that can be in MP4, AVI or MOV...
How long do video tapes last?
Do VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, Hi-8 and MiniDV video tapes ever go bad? Family vacations, kids blowing out candles and holiday gatherings are among the most cherished family memories captured on video. Sadly, these irreplaceable recordings on the verge of extinction as the tapes...