--- Forwarded Message from Zachary Chandler <[log in to unmask]> --- >Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2003 09:31:27 -0500 >From: Zachary Chandler <[log in to unmask]> >To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: Re: #7325 Recording TV to Disk >References: <[log in to unmask]> >In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]> >User-Agent: Internet Messaging Program (IMP) 3.2.2 ------------------ > --- Forwarded Message from Joseph Kautz <[log in to unmask]> --- > > > Hello. We have some instructors who record off air broadcasts to VHS for > use in class. I am looking for a way to capture these broadcasts > directly to a HD (e.g. Tivo?) I want to avoid having to digitize the stuff > from VHS. Does anyone have suggestions for how to do this? Joseph I suggest the Formac TVR (Mac only) - www.formac.com. It has RF in (as well as RCA) and firewire out. (Be careful not to order the studio dv, which is a converter only, no RF in.) It comes with software for handling program scheduling, etc. that is pretty easy to use. You can save as compressed files (quicktime, IMA 4:1) to make the most of your drive space - or go with uncompressed if you have gobs of room or if quality is that important. I started using the device this year, and I'm pretty fond of it. I dump quicktime files or MPEG-4 onto CD's, after I've had my standard fair use, classroom-only use conversation with the faculty member. The faculty like the ability to scrub through the video with the playhead, which you can't do with an disk encoded for set-top boxes, etc. I'm not sure if the Formac is the most cost effective solution, but I like mine. </2 cents> Zach