Video Digital Output Formats
MPEG-4
We supply your films back to you in the very versatile MPEG-4 format. Works on any computer, phone, tablet or TV. We give you one file for each reel, named or numbered as you like. So, if you send 10 x video tapes, you will get back 10 x files on your stick. We deliver the files on a USB Stick. You can provide your own, or buy one of ours, from just £12.
Backup Hard Drive
It’s a good idea to have a backup of your project. Our backup service includes a copy of the above MPEG-4 files and also the ProRes 422 Master files. There’s also an option to add in the non-AI version (RAW Scan) in ProRes format. ProRes is a high-quality file that works with all the major editing programs. You will get one .mov file for each tape. We deliver the files on a USB hard drive. You can provide your own, or buy one of ours from just £70.
Output Comparison Chart
MPEG-4 | ProRes | |
|---|---|---|
Image Size 1920x1080 full HD | Yes | Yes |
Image Size 3840 × 2160 in 4K ULTRA HD | Yes | Yes |
| What is the bitrate in HD? | 15Mbps | 147Mbps |
| What is the bitrate in 4K? | 25Mbps | 354Mbps |
What size are the files in HD? | 6.9GB per 1hr | 57GB per 1hr |
What size are the files in 4K? | 11.4GB per 1hr | 223GB per 1hr |
| Can I edit this format on my computer? | Yes | Yes |
| Will this work on my Mac? | Yes | Yes |
| Will this work on Windows? | Yes | Yes |
Will this format play directly on my iPhone/iPad? | Yes | Yes |
Will this format play on a compatible TV? | Yes | No |
FAQs
How do you capture tapes ?
We use Teranex, the world’s most advanced converter with extremely high-quality de-interlacing. Teranex features proprietary and patented PixelMotion de-interlacing algorithms, so you get improved image quality by maintaining vertical resolution. Teranex includes award-winning temporal recursive noise reduction.
How do you transfer VHS
Your VHS Tapes are played through a Professional SVHS Deck with an advanced IQ mechanism and 4-channel audio, which Adds up to an outstanding performance. The brushless DD motors provide stable tape transport and tape-to-head contact using Tapered Twin Projection Cylinder. The mechanism features an auto video head cleaning function to maintain high picture quality over long tapes. Smooth, stable tape transport is a significant factor in determining final picture quality. The Player is equipped with an 11-bit digital servo that controls tape transport precisely to maintain optimum image quality by minimising jitter.
How do you transfer Betamax
Your Betamax Tapes are played through a Professional Sony HiFi Super Beta deck. We are very privileged to have 2 of the final Super Beta decks ever made by Sony, and they give the best picture possible from your Betamax tapes.
How do you transfer Video8 and Hi8
We use Video8-XR and Hi8-XR deck witch offers a modest 10% improvement in luminance detail over standard Video8 and Hi8. We have also introduced better noise reduction, giving you the best possible transfer from your tapes.
How do you transfer Digital Tapes like MiniDV and Digital8
All our Digital tapes are done with our Teranex unit giving you an indistinguishable transfer from the original master.
How do you transfer U-Matic tapes
Your Tapes are played through a Professional U-Matic SP deck. Our deck can transfer SP, Low-band and High-band tapes in PAL or NTSC.
How do you transfer Betacam tapes
Your Tapes are played through a Professional Sony Digital Betacam The unit can transfer Large and small tapes from DigiBeta, Betacam SP, Betacam SX, MPEG IMX in PAL or NTSC.
How do you transfer DVCAM
Your Tapes are played through a Professional DV deck The unit can transfer Large and small tapes from DVCAM and DVCAM HD in PAL or NTSC.
How do you transfer DVCPRO
Your Tapes are played through a Professional Panasonic deck The unit can transfer DVCPRO and DVCPRO 50 tapes in PAL or NTSC.
How do you transfer HDCAM
Your Tapes are played through a Professional Sony HDCAM deck The unit can transfer Large and small tapes 1080i tapes are converted to 1080p
How do you up-scale SD to HD/4K ?
We use Teranex hardware and AI software to achieve this. Our upscaling service has sophisticated image sampling, edge detection techniques and multi-direction diagonal filters. Our AI gathered detail from multiple frames to Upscale the video resolution. We also Remove visible image noise while preserving details to clean up your video. You will get stunning improvements in video quality.
Do you clean the tapes before transfer?
Yes we have a tape cleaning machine and all tapes are cleaned before transfer. The system inspects your videotapes edge to edge to find physical damage such as wrinkles and creases. It simultaneously cleans the tape surface using specially formulated tissues ….. uses no chemicals.
- Evaluates
unique opto-electronic inspection module finds tape damage at high speed - Cleans
specially formulated cleaning tissues gently wipe away dirt, dust, loose oxide and other contaminants that can cause poor picture and sound - Conditions
Ultra-precision sapphire polishing system conditions the tape for better performance - Safe
proven method used worldwide. Uses no chemicals. Microprocessor electronics control speed and tension for gentle, safe tape handling
Do you do any video restoration ?
Yes, our studios are equipped with restoration hardware and AI software which allows us to perform colour correction, image enhancement, reconstruction and noise removal, sharpening highlights and softening shadows. Alive Studios can bring dull footage to life. Restoration and colour correction is, of course, dependent on the state of the original videos.
How do I order?
It’s easiest for you to place your order online as the form prompts you with all the information we will need from you. However, don’t be afraid to phone us to let us help you build your order too. If you have odd lengths or you’re not sure what you have, we can pickup the films and do a full assessment for you.
How do I get the tapes to you?
You can send the order yourself using the Post Office, but most people prefer to let us collect the box using our courier service, which is free on ALL orders, no matter how large or small. Return delivery is also free.
How long does it take?
This is a tricky question. We receive orders from a single tape (takes a few days) to a room-full (could be months), so we’d need to know what you’re sending to give a lead-time. We find we are in high demand and always have lots of work already scheduled in, so if your order is needed in a hurry, you can go for the 7 days express service, or just phone and tell us what you need 🙂
