Auto Sound Systems

Replacing VHS tapes with DVDs can be an expensive proposition.

There’s another solution - VHS to DVD converters, some of which will also convert practically any analog source to many different digital formats.

It will pay for itself if you have about 10 or more VHS tapes.

You may have seen some of these or other similar products on gizmo blogs, we’ve decided to put together a list of top choices for you. Here are 4 such products:

#4. Plextor ConvertX Digital Video Converter - Plextor’s ConvertX box converts your VHS tapes into DixV or MPEG-4 on your computer, after which you can burn it to DVD. The ConvertX box plugs into your computer and also comes bundled with software. Its built-in compression software allows you to store 2 hours of video on a CD, or 10 hours on a DVD. Costs about $55.

#3. CopyThis! Digital Video Enhancer - Like the ConvertX, the CopyThis is a small box that copies your VHS tapes as well as gives you the the opportunity to enhance them as you go along. Enhancement features include noise reduction and black and white vintage effects. Unfortunately, this product is no longer made, but you may be able to find one on eBay.

2. Honestech’s VHS to DVD 3.0 Deluxe - This is also a converter box and it is able to convert practically any analog source into many digital formats. The included software is very easy to use and has 2 modes: advanced and beginner. For example, in easy mode, a video can be converted to DVD in just a few mouse clicks.

There are advanced features like video editing. It’s easy to get started with VHS to DVD and it’s a good value for the money. VHS to DVD costs approx $50. You can read a full review of VHS to DVD 3.0 Deluxe here.

#1. Panasonic DMR-EZxxx DVD & VHS Recorders - Panasonic has a line up of DVD to VHS recorders that play both formats. As it has slots for both, it also allows to record from one format to the other (although we’re not quite sure why you’d want to downgrade your DVDs). As opposed to the other 3 units, this does not have a software component, and it does playback as well, including for example, JPG files from an SD card. This unit also has a HDMI connector and can can upscale to 1080p. We’ve decided to rank this number one for its slew of features, but unfortunately it does have a price tag to match (about $170).

Except for the CopyThis product, you can find the others quite easily on your gadget shopping hunts.