<p>We rarely use our camcorder anymore but we have old Hi8 tapes. My D was watching some old tapes and jammed the tape compartment. It looks to be a permanent break.
It looks like we can buy a new Hi8 recorder for a low price and use that to playback the old tapes.
Or is there a simple way we can convert them to another format say a DVD.</p>
<p>See the following link for transfering camcorder footage to dvd:<a href=“http://hometheater.about.com/od/dvdrecorderfaqs/f/dvdrecgfaq2a.htm[/url]”>http://hometheater.about.com/od/dvdrecorderfaqs/f/dvdrecgfaq2a.htm</a></p>
<p>Something to keep in mind: Blank dvds come in two formats, “+” and “-”. And then there are rewritable dvds that are also labeled “+” and “-”. </p>
<p>Most newer dvd players should be able to playback both formats, but to be sure, refer to your user manual to be certain or “Google” your player’s manufacturer and model number.</p>
<p>If your home computer has a dvd burner and a separate video card with the right inputs, you can transfer your tapes in that way too.</p>
<p>Thank you for the link. One problem is we don’t presently have a working camcorder.</p>
<p>If you do a search on “Hi8 to dvd conversion”, you’ll find commercial services that will turn your tapes into dvds. One site offered to do it for $6.00 a tape. </p>
<p>I can’t say how good any of these services are, so you’ll need to do your homework…</p>
<p>You may want to check with specialty camera shops in your area to see if they offer conversion services…</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Michuncle- thanks for your help. We did the camera store route today. It looks like the way to go is to have one of them put the video on to a DVD. And then replace the camcorder if we want with a newer format.</p>