CompuServe Messages

Hi Jim. I didn't realize you were local, more or less (I'm in SF). Martin listed the options quite nicely, I think. I have a Sony SVO9600 PRO (S-VHS), but got it for $3200. I use V-LAN Animax, which I love. Videomedia has a utility that will be free upon official release that records several frames per pass, eliminating the need to record each frame on a single edit. It is similar to Diaquest's Quickpass. I also use the Exabyte tape drive to store YUV images converted from .TGA (RGB) via ASDG drivers, then bring the tape in to a service bureau with an Abekas A66. I can have my digital component animation layed down to whatever tape format I choose (D1, D2, Beta Digital, Beta SP, etc…) for truly high-end output. You can't get better than that, and it costs $0.14 per frame, typically. I'm also going to check out the new Matrox MAX, a digital disk device that will play back jpegged image files at 30 frames/ 60 fields per second and comes bundled with the Illuminator Pro which has on board CCIR-601 circutry. If I had my choice and the buisness to justify it, I'd look into buying the new Beta Digital format. It's just a hair less quality than D1, and costs WAY less.