VHS Mastering Policy

The VHS format is not an appropriate one for mastering during film-to-tape transfers. Although we use “professional grade” tape and machines, the format, itself is for the home consumer. In recent years the new consumer decks have become cheaper and less reliable; older decks are prone to misalignment and mechanical malfunction from years of daily usage. VHS decks, therefore, create a multitude of problems for which we cannot be responsible. If you were to choose to have your material mastered (telecine transferred) to VHS and your deck consumes the tape you would have to make another transfer at the full telecine price. This makes no economic sense and is the very reason we don’t perform this operation. Please be aware that there are companies that do master to VHS and the above statement should be considered when finding one that does. It’s just simply not a sound professional practice. For this reason the lowest linear format we will master to is mini DV. Our mastering formats are: Digital Betacam, Betacam SP, DV-Cam and mini-DV. Our non linear format is DVD-R. VHS is still an appropriate choice for home viewing and/or reference. If you need a VHS copy there is an additional dubbing charge. See our transfer charts for additional information.

Take me back to the main policy page.