2 replies to this topic

[Tassie Devil]

Quite a few of us have got DVD-Rs which only accept s-video external input so the omission of s-video outputs from the newer PVRs poses a problem if you want to archive a PVR file on to DVD.  Those who are computer literate can use a lot of options but those of us who are not, or do not wish to use a PC need a component to s-video converter.

The initial Googling revealed some quite inexpensive options but further research revealed that the video quality with these could be mediocre. If a file was considered valuable enough to archive, then video quality is important for me.

Further searching revealed the alternatives could be very expensive until the Atlona AT-COMP500 Component Video to S-Video/Composite Converter was discovered at http://www.ebay.com/...0-/221047582483

The downside of that unit is the cost of freight from the USA but it still works out less than half the cost of the same product sourced locally.  And I made an offer of $90 which was accepted so that helped a bit. And from what I can gather, with interest in s-video sharply declining, the Ationa AT-COMP500 is now discontinued so when present stocks are sold only the much cheaper and the much more expensive alternatives will be available.  At this stage I'm unsure if the Ationa strips off DVD copy protection but I have a "Digital Stabiliser" that does if required, something not needed for FTA files on a PVR anyway.

It probably would have been more sensible to have educated myself about PC use, something many here have developed into a fine art, but I'm lazy about too much mental PC effort so have chosen the Ationa route.  This post is to alert others with my backward approach to what I've uncovered.

John

[mwd]

Better hang on to one of those Magics John pity it isn't satellite compatible.

[Tassie Devil]

mwd, on 18 May 2013 - 08:04 PM, said:

Better hang on to one of those Magics John pity it isn't satellite compatible.

Well one at least for the time being.  Someone is offering to buy one of them and, with the VAST Humax on the way, I could not justify keeping it.  But I'm planning a wholesale move over to VAST in September, as even now there are problems with SBS unavailable at 3 TV points.

But I agree, pity the MAGIC is not capable of VAST reception.

John