FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How do I know how much footage is on my VHS tape?
In most cases, there is no way to know exactly how much footage is on a VHS tape until it is played through and transferred.
Most VHS tapes are around 1 to 2 hours, but some can hold up to 4 or 6 hours depending on how they were originally recorded.
If your tape is longer than 2 hours, the extra time is charged at $4 per additional hour.
Can I watch or preview my tapes before transferring them?
At this time, we do not offer a separate preview service.
Because VHS transfers happen in real time, the tape needs to be played through during the transfer process. Once the file is created, you will be able to watch the digital version on your computer, USB, hard drive, or cloud link.
How does the VHS transfer process work?
The process is simple.
First, we check the tape and make sure it can be played. Then the VHS tape is played through using a VCR and captured into a digital file.
VHS transfers happen in real time, which means a 2-hour tape takes about 2 hours to capture.
Once the transfer is complete, your video is saved as an MP4 file, named clearly, and delivered through your chosen method.
What format will my VHS videos be saved in?
VHS tapes are saved as MP4 files.
MP4 is the best option for most families because it is easy to watch, save, and share. It works on most computers, phones, tablets, smart TVs, USB drives, and cloud storage platforms.
Do we offer restoration or enhancement?
Not at this time.
We focus on creating a clean and reliable digital copy of your original tape, cassette, or disc. Final quality depends on the condition of the original media.
Older tapes may already have fading, static, tracking issues, audio problems, or wear from age. We handle every item carefully, but we do not currently offer full restoration or advanced enhancement services.
Will the quality be better than the original tape?
The goal is to preserve what is already on the tape, not to turn it into HD.
VHS tapes were recorded in older formats, so the final digital file will still look like VHS footage. However, converting it to digital helps protect it from further tape decay and makes it much easier to watch, save, and share.
What can I get my files saved on?
You can choose the option that works best for you.
We offer:
Cloud delivery
USB drive
External hard drive
Customer-provided USB or hard drive
Cloud delivery is free. USB drives and external hard drives are available for an additional cost. Though, you have the option to supply your own.
Do I get my original tapes back?
Yes. Your original tapes, cassettes, or discs are returned to you after the transfer is complete.
We are only creating a digital copy. Your original media remains yours.
How are the files organized?
Each file is named clearly so it is easier to find and watch.
For example:
VHS_1
VHS_2
Family_Tape_1
Cassette_1
If you know what is on the tape, you can let us know and we can use a more specific file name where possible.
How long does it take?
Turnaround time depends on how many tapes you have and how long the recordings are.
Because VHS transfers happen in real time, larger orders can take longer. Once we know how many tapes or cassettes you have, we will give you a better idea of timing before starting.
Can damaged tapes still be transferred?
Sometimes, yes.
It depends on the condition of the tape. Some older tapes may still play fine, while others may have issues like poor picture quality, audio problems, mould, broken tape, or playback errors.
If there are obvious issues, we will let you know before moving forward.
What happens if a tape is blank?
If a tape appears to be blank or has very little usable footage, we will let you know.
Since the tape still needs to be checked and played through, a small fee may still apply depending on the situation.
Do we keep a copy of your videos?
We only keep files temporarily to make sure everything is delivered properly.
After your order is complete, files are deleted after a short period unless something different is discussed with you.