VHS tapes and the VCRs that play them are slowly becoming obsolete. DVDs and other digital media have surpassed VHS in quality and convenience, making for a better viewing experience. Moreover, VHS tapes degrade over time---particularly after multiple recordings. Still, you can update and improve your collection, though some methods may require new purchases.
Instructions
Updating on VHS
1. Purchase a head-cleaning cassette and use it periodically to ensure optimal recording ability.
2. Purchase new VHS tapes as well---rerecording on older tapes will not improve audio and video quality.
3. If necessary, buy a newer, better (four-head) VCR if you intend to keep your collection on VHS. Pick up a VCR/DVD recorder combination unit if you wish to record or transfer your collection to DVD.
4. Connect the VCR to the cable or satellite receiver to record the movie or program the next time it airs, if possible. Transferring the movie from the original tape to DVD will not improve picture or sound quality.
Updating Digitally
5. If you can afford it, purchase DVDs of the movies or TV shows in your collection. Browse local used CD/DVD stores and online outlets to search for the best bargains, especially with older titles.
6. Connect a DVD recorder (or VCR/DVD recorder combo) to your cable or satellite receiver to record any programs from your collection.
7. Press "Record" on the DVD and "Play" on the VCR simultaneously to dub a VHS tape to DVD if using a combination unit or if you have connected a DVD recorder to your VCR.
8. Visit a website that offers downloads of movies and TV episodes/seasons if you wish to update your collection straight to your hard drive. Though most sites charge a fee for these downloads, it will usually cost less than purchasing DVDs while saving the storage space.
Tags: your collection, cable satellite, cable satellite receiver, combination unit, receiver record