Video Tapes

Heirloom converts nearly all consumer and professional video tape formats. This includes VHS, VHS-C, S-VHS, MiniDV, Hi8, Digital8, and professional formats like Betamax, 3/4-inch U-matic, Betacam SP, and DVC Pro. If you’re unsure what you have, Heirloom can help identify it.

Repairs are included in the price whenever possible. Heirloom specialists assess each tape and perform cleaning or repairs needed to achieve playback and digitization. Tapes that cannot be recovered are never charged, and tapes proven to be completely blank are automatically credited back.

Yes. Each tape is converted into one individual digital video file, preserving the original recording without merging or splitting content. Blank portions of the tape are excluded, so you don’t end up with wasted space or empty footage.

Videos are delivered as MP4 files, the most widely supported and future-proof format. Each file matches the original source quality—SD or HD—with the correct aspect ratio preserved. This ensures easy playback, sharing, and long-term storage.

Most video tape orders are completed within a few days, depending on the number of tapes and their condition. Heirloom prioritizes quality over speed, taking the time needed to handle aging or delicate media properly. Customers are often surprised by how quickly their finished videos are ready.

Heirloom focuses on the highest-quality 1-to-1 digital capture of your original tape. This creates the best possible master file, giving you full control to apply enhancements later if you choose. Many customers use free or inexpensive video tools to adjust color, brightness, or stabilization to their personal taste.

DVDs can scratch, crack, degrade, and become unreadable over time. Digital files stored in the cloud are safer, easier to copy, and simple to share with family. Digital also avoids locking your memories to outdated physical media.