Is there a converter for 8mm camcorder tapes to put them onto DVD or straight to a computer without a camera?

Question

I want to take home movies from 8mm video tapes, not reels, and put them onto the computer or make them into a DVD. I don't have a 8mm camcorder and my dad's broke. I know that I could go somewhere to get it done, but it's really expensive and I don't really trust anyone with my memories. Does anyone know if they make a converter or would I have to buy an old 8mm camera? Thanks!

Answer 1

ya there is .. ive seen'm a frys .. a little spendy, but i guess u could say u own a piece of pro editing equipment ,,, like 1000$

cheaper to use camera and editing card

Answer 2

Most likely you will have to buy a camera and all the cables...

Answer 3

Odds are, you'll need both an 8mm camcorder (I'm assuming analog, not digital) and an input to your PC.  If you don't have a capture card/device, you'll need to obtain one.  

Although I can't vouch for results, I found an inexpensive one on Amazon.com:  http://www.amazon.com/Dazzle-Video-Creat...

I use a Matrox RT2500, I can vouch for it's usefulness.  One of these will run you a couple of hundred bucks though.

As for the camcorder, ask around.  Certainly one of your friends or relatives has one they're not using.  You could probably borrow one for free.  You could always try Craigslist - although using a fair amount of caution.  Good luck!

Answer 4

Buy an old Sony Digital 8 camcorder on EBay like a DCR-TRV460. It is backward compatible to analog & you can use a firewire connection with your PC