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U-matic

U-matic ¾ to Digital File and/or DVD Conversion Services in Toronto and the GTA

We offer a full suite of solutions to convert and transfer your U-matic tapes into a digital file or DVD/Blu-ray format.

Sony had hoped the U-matic cassette tape, invented in the late 60s, would capture the home video market by offering an easy to use cartridge based delivery/recording system for analog video. The format, which would act as a sort of design prototype for the formats to follow, features a 3/4” magnetic tape cased inside of a large plastic cartridge. One of the unique aspects of the U-Matic’s design is that the two reels, which spool the film move in opposite directions.

Unfortunately the high price points had deterred the average consumer and the U-Matic had failed to make an impact on the home-video market. However, the format was adopted early on by News outlets and Institutional organizations. The U-Matic would be superseded by Sony’s Beta series of products, which would go on to become industry broadcast standard.

PRICING FAQ SAMPLE VIDEOS



U-MATIC TAPE CONVERSIONS


1-Year Quality and Service Guarantee
ARCHIVAL GRADE
$100/tape
Up to 1 hour of Runtime
After 20% Discount
SD, 2K or 4K resolution
Preservation Copy (ProRes, AVI & other formats)
Access Copy (MP4 H.264 HD)
PAL or SECAM +$10 (Call to confirm)
Pricing

ARCHIVAL VS. BROADCAST GRADE?

While both Broadcast Grade & Archival Grade transfers at Digital Treasures make use of the same capture hardware, each service offers a variety of delivery options and additional assets.

Archival Grade clients can choose to receive files at 2K or 4K resolution, or in the original resolution and non-square aspect ratio of the source format. Codec options include H.264/5, ProRes, Avid DNX, and Blu-ray.

For clients converting content for streaming providers or television broadcast, this new tier of service is focused on delivering to the exact standards of online distributors, including packaging of closed captions and additional audio languages.



SAMPLE VIDEOS

THE LIFESPAN OF MAGNETIC VIDEO TAPE

Magnetic video tapes typically have a lifespan of 10 to 25 years, with some reports citing up to 30 years. Over time, the magnetic particles lose charge in a phenomenon called remanence decay, which can cause discoloration, blacked out scenes, and eventually complete loss of footage. To extend the lifespan of content recorded on magnetic video tapes, it is best to store them in a cool and dry place with little to no climate change.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Click a link to jump to the topic.

How much does it cost?
  • For both STANDARD GRADE and FAMILY GRADE services we charge per 1-hour of recorded material. We count a 1-hour minimum per tape and IF you have more >1-hour of recorded material the fee rolls over for another 1-hour period regardless if it's 5 minutes or 60 minutes.
  • For ARCHIVAL GRADE service we charge a fixed-fee per tape.
  • PLEASE NOTE the vast majority of videotapes max-out at 1 - 2-hours of recorded material.
  • The $/hour rate is specific to the format of VIDEO and the tier of service; for detailed pricing for all services please see our PRICING
Can I view my tapes ahead of time?
  • Given the nature of our production process we are NOT able to provide previewing services for your videotapes.
How do I know how much footage is on my tapes?
  • There is no way to know just how much recorded material is actually on a videotape until we run the entire tape from beginning to end. Once the entire videotape has been captured we edit-out any BLANK SPACE or BLUE SCREEN so that what we are returning to you (and charging you for) is viewable recorded material only.
What is the process for transferring videotapes?
  • The videotape is physically inspected for any mechanical or age related issues* before processing.
  • The videotape is rewound and played from beginning to end.
  • PLEASE NOTE videotape transfers are a real-time process ie., 10 hours of video takes 10 hours to capture BEFORE we do any digital processing.
  • Once the entire videotape has been captured we edit-out any BLANK SPACE or BLUE SCREEN so that what we are returning to you (and charging you for) is viewable recorded material only.
  • *We have the facility to handle and remediate such issues accordingly.
What are the different formats available? And what is the difference between compressed and uncompressed?
  • You can receive your video files back in .MP4 (compressed) or .MOV (uncompressed) format.
  • Compressed files (an access copy) are the best solution for sharing files as-is and can be viewed across most digital devices, given their wide scope of compatibility. Their smaller file sizes make this format ideal for instances of limited storage.
  • Uncompressed files (a preservation copy) files are required for any additional mastering/editing, and are essential for future proofing long-term archiving, but have limited compatibility and require large amounts of storage.
  • Broadcast and Archival Grade formats may also benefit from additional formats such as ProRes or AVI.
What is the difference between PAL/SECAM and NTSC and can you convert PAL?
  • NTSC, PAL, SECAM, were regional standards for video which each with unique attributes, and are not cross compatible.
  • NTSC (National Television Standards Committee) uses a frame rate of 29 fps, with a refresh rate of 60Hz.
  • PAL (Phase Altering Line) and SECAM (Séquentiel De Couleur à Mémoire) utilise a lower frame-rate at 25 fps at a refresh rate of 50Hz, but SECAM’s colours transmit in a sequential order.
  • We have the capacity to transfer most PAL/SECAM formats to digital. Please see our PRICING.
Why would I pick the 2K (HD) or 4K (UHD) upscaling when my videotapes were recorded in standard definition (SD)?
  • Resolution refers to the number of pixels a video contains both horizontally and vertically (H: 1920 x V: 1080). These video parameters determine how much space of a digital display the video will natively occupy. In other words, the higher the resolution, the greater percentage of the screen will be occupied by the video upon playback. Should you, for example, attempt to play a Standard Definition video on a High Definition, or Ultra High Definition display, you would experience a substantial loss of clarity, as the screen attempts to make up the difference in the pixel shortage.
  • As screens continue to get larger and larger and we continue to increase video resolution it's clear that future-proofing your content in the highest available resolution today - is the best way to ensure content remains up to standard for as long as possible.
  • For a detailed video explaining the benefits please see our INFO
How is it organized?
  • We physically label ALL individual videotapes with your unique Order#_Code (ie., 60561_X).
  • We create a unique digital file folder reflecting the different format types received (ie., VHS, Hi8, miniDV, Betamax).
  • The digital file associated with the physical videotape will be named the same (ie., 60561_VHS_1) and saved to it's associated file folder.
How long does it take?
  • Standard turnaround times for most retail client orders are 2 - 3 weeks, depending on the order size and parameters.
  • Rush service is available and generally provides for either:
    1 week turnaround for the rush fee of $40 for orders up to $100 and 40% of the order value for orders over $100.
    or
    2 week turnaround for the rush fee of $25 for orders up to $100 and 25% of the order value for orders over $100.
Where is the work done?
  • All transfer services are performed in-house at our 10,000 sq/ft production facility located in Etobicoke LOCATIONS
  • No 3rd parties, No risks.
What / How do I get back?
  • A unique digital file(s) for each individual videotape provided.
  • ALL the originally provided media is returned.
  • You have the option for the digital files to be returned via:
  • a USB or External Hard Drive that YOU provide at either drop-off or pick-up.
  • a USB or External Hard Drive that WE provide commensurate with your project requirements.
  • our Cloud Service.
  • DVD / BluRay.
Can I edit the digital content (myself) post receipt?
  • Your digital files are totally "unlocked" and available to be copied and shared (without limit) at your discretion.
  • PLEASE NOTE that editing video can prove to be more involved than it appears given the need for both hardware and software. Should you require assistance with editing we can help!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Click a link to jump to the topic.

How much does it cost?
  • For both STANDARD GRADE and FAMILY GRADE services we charge per 1-hour of recorded material. We count a 1-hour minimum per tape and IF you have more >1-hour of recorded material the fee rolls over for another 1-hour period regardless if it's 5 minutes or 60 minutes.
  • For ARCHIVAL GRADE service we charge a fixed-fee per tape.
  • PLEASE NOTE the vast majority of videotapes max-out at 1 - 2-hours of recorded material.
  • The $/hour rate is specific to the format of VIDEO and the tier of service; for detailed pricing for all services please see our PRICING
Can I view my tapes ahead of time?
  • Given the nature of our production process we are NOT able to provide previewing services for your videotapes.
How do I know how much footage is on my tapes?
  • There is no way to know just how much recorded material is actually on a videotape until we run the entire tape from beginning to end. Once the entire videotape has been captured we edit-out any BLANK SPACE or BLUE SCREEN so that what we are returning to you (and charging you for) is viewable recorded material only.
What is the process for transferring videotapes?
  • The videotape is physically inspected for any mechanical or age related issues* before processing.
  • The videotape is rewound and played from beginning to end.
  • PLEASE NOTE videotape transfers are a real-time process ie., 10 hours of video takes 10 hours to capture BEFORE we do any digital processing.
  • Once the entire videotape has been captured we edit-out any BLANK SPACE or BLUE SCREEN so that what we are returning to you (and charging you for) is viewable recorded material only.
  • *We have the facility to handle and remediate such issues accordingly.
What are the different formats available? And what is the difference between compressed and uncompressed?
  • You can receive your video files back in .MP4 (compressed) or .MOV (uncompressed) format.
  • Compressed files (an access copy) are the best solution for sharing files as-is and can be viewed across most digital devices, given their wide scope of compatibility. Their smaller file sizes make this format ideal for instances of limited storage.
  • Uncompressed files (a preservation copy) files are required for any additional mastering/editing, and are essential for future proofing long-term archiving, but have limited compatibility and require large amounts of storage.
  • Broadcast and Archival Grade formats may also benefit from additional formats such as ProRes or AVI.
What is the difference between PAL/SECAM and NTSC and can you convert PAL?
  • NTSC, PAL, SECAM, were regional standards for video which each with unique attributes, and are not cross compatible.
  • NTSC (National Television Standards Committee) uses a frame rate of 29 fps, with a refresh rate of 60Hz.
  • PAL (Phase Altering Line) and SECAM (Séquentiel De Couleur à Mémoire) utilise a lower frame-rate at 25 fps at a refresh rate of 50Hz, but SECAM’s colours transmit in a sequential order.
  • We have the capacity to transfer most PAL/SECAM formats to digital. Please see our PRICING.
Why would I pick the 2K (HD) or 4K (UHD) upscaling when my videotapes were recorded in standard definition (SD)?
  • Resolution refers to the number of pixels a video contains both horizontally and vertically (H: 1920 x V: 1080). These video parameters determine how much space of a digital display the video will natively occupy. In other words, the higher the resolution, the greater percentage of the screen will be occupied by the video upon playback. Should you, for example, attempt to play a Standard Definition video on a High Definition, or Ultra High Definition display, you would experience a substantial loss of clarity, as the screen attempts to make up the difference in the pixel shortage.
  • As screens continue to get larger and larger and we continue to increase video resolution it's clear that future-proofing your content in the highest available resolution today - is the best way to ensure content remains up to standard for as long as possible.
  • For a detailed video explaining the benefits please see our INFO
How is it organized?
  • We physically label ALL individual videotapes with your unique Order#_Code (ie., 60561_X).
  • We create a unique digital file folder reflecting the different format types received (ie., VHS, Hi8, miniDV, Betamax).
  • The digital file associated with the physical videotape will be named the same (ie., 60561_VHS_1) and saved to it's associated file folder.
How long does it take?
  • Standard turnaround times for most retail client orders are 2 - 3 weeks, depending on the order size and parameters.
  • Expedited (RUSH) service is available and generally provides for a 1 week turnaround; the RUSH fee a flat $25.00 for Orders under $100.00 and for Orders over $100.00 the fee is 25% the value of the Order (ie., $200.00 Order counts a $50.00 RUSH fee).
Where is the work done?
  • All transfer services are performed in-house at our 10,000 sq/ft production facility located in Etobicoke LOCATIONS
  • No 3rd parties, No risks.
What / How do I get back?
  • A unique digital file(s) for each individual videotape provided.
  • ALL the originally provided media is returned.
  • You have the option for the digital files to be returned via:
  • a USB or External Hard Drive that YOU provide at either drop-off or pick-up.
  • a USB or External Hard Drive that WE provide commensurate with your project requirements.
  • our Cloud Service.
  • DVD / BluRay.
Can I edit the digital content (myself) post receipt?
  • Your digital files are totally "unlocked" and available to be copied and shared (without limit) at your discretion.
  • PLEASE NOTE that editing video can prove to be more involved than it appears given the need for both hardware and software. Should you require assistance with editing we can help!

HOW IT WORKS


Any Questions?

Call: 416 479 0903
Toll free: 1 866 559 1163
E-mail: info@digitaltreasury.ca
Fill out our contact form

Logistics

Drop off at one of our 2 GTA locations

Mon-Fri (10am - 5pm)
Mon-Fri (10am - 5pm)
or

Digital Solutions

Digital files on:
USB / hard drive / the Cloud
DVD / Blu-rays



PLACE YOUR ORDER



VISIT ONE OF OUR TWO LOCATIONS

Etobicoke office map

Etobicoke (HQ)

415 Horner Ave. #8
Toronto, ON, M8W 4W3
416 479 0903

Hours and Directions

North york office map

North York

265 Rimrock Rd. #2A
Toronto, ON, M3J 3C6
416 479 0903

Hours and Directions





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Ancestry.ca
Canadian Museum Association