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For Super-8, 8mm Copies to DVD, MiniDV Video

Tobin Video Transfer
TCS TVT-S8M, TVT-R8M


Self-Contained Film to Video Transfer Machine

The telecine projector, optical system and high quality video camera module are built in to one compact, easy to use unit. Available in super-8 or 8mm, NTSC or PAL. Three running speeds. The best equipment on the market today for efficiently copying consumer home movies to today's DVD format.

Replaces Elmo Transvideo.
  The TVT-8M telecine models are designed for making higher quality video transfers, with high productivity, from typical home movie film. Totally flickerless running without speed tweaking by the user, plus automatic or

manual exposure, a footage counter, heavy duty construction, and other features. No hard to find expensive light bulbs to buy.

Direct Imaging Picture Quality. A CCD video pickup, a special macro lens system and our exclusive technology assures a sharp, steady, flicker-free image. Video outputs are standard video, also Y/C (S-Video) for optimum DVD and Mini-DV quality.  No  flicker adjustment knob is needed. The exposure level can be set fully manually if desired, or two automatic modes are provided. A 3CCD camera version rated at 800 lines resolution is now offered.

Three Crystal Running Speeds. Transfer film to your DVD or MiniDV recorder in real time, with no computer needed. Reel capacity is 600 feet (180 meters.) A high-speed rewind is provided and it works without running the mechanism.

Frame By Frame Scanning. The TVT-8 scans one film frame at a time, in real time while each frame is stationary in the gate, so each video field contains information from just one film picture. Electronic shuttering, instead of a physical shutter, gives absolutely zero flicker in the video.

Maximum Film Safety. A two-tooth pulldown claw distributes stress for minimal perforation wear. For typical home movie films with a lot of bad splices that might not all be caught in the film preparation for transfer stage, the TVT-8M models are the best choice. Sprocketless drive, so there are no loops to be lost and no shredding of film after a bad splice. If a bad splice sticks in the film gate, just immediately give the film a quick downwards yank below the gate to free it, with no need to stop the transfer. Quick and easy manual threading. Film is easily removed in mid-reel if desired.
    Reverse running threading change: When running in reverse, the film must be re-threaded to bypass the two rubber retarder posts, otherwise the friction becomes excessive and damage may result.
    Reel restrictions: Recommended reel sizes are 400 and 600 feet on a modern large 2.4" (6cm) center hub light weight plastic reel. For running from smaller, unbalanced or heavier reels, or smaller center hub reels, it may help to pull the Supply reel outwards on the spindle and place a washer over the keyways so the keyways are not engaged with the slots in the reel hub. This will reduce the running drag and give better results in terms of image steadiness. If your preference is for automatic threading instead, with the ability to accept nearly any size or type of reel, with film in excellent condition, we offer the TVT-8J
models also.

Footage Counter. No customer arguments if you can write an exact figure on their bill!

Heavy Duty Construction.


Detailed specifications can be seen here.
  Larger picture of 1CCD model can be seen here. Larger picture of 3CCD model is similar to photo here except sound components and sprockets are absent.

TVT-S8M 1CCD for super-8 film is $3800.
TVT-R8M 1CCD for standard-8mm film is $3800.
TVT-S8M 3CCD for super-8 film is $6300.
TVT-R8M
3CCD for standard-8mm film is $6300.


Please specify NTSC video output (USA type) or PAL video output (European type). Film counter for USA units measures feet, and overseas units can be set to measure meters. Let us know your preference.

Ready to order now? Please see our ordering info
page.

Not quite ready? Prospective purchasers can get our
free NTSC DVD demo disc on request. Please send an e-mail.

Film Preparation note: Before copying film on any telecine equipment, it is recommended that the film be first inspected and defective splices and damaged sections removed. It should then be cleaned and lubricated. Directions and sources of supplies are given in the instructions. Our suggestions for splicing are here.


Can't afford two machines for super-8 and regular-8 right now? You might consider our TVT-D8
Dual-8 model intended for the film hobbyist or very small operation. Our Selection Guide will help you select the best for you.

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Rights Notice: Material on film, tape, disc or otherwise may be subject to stated or implied Copyright or Performance Right, or the right to privacy, etc. depending on the laws of your country. Unauthorized duplication may be a violation that is civil or criminal in nature. Equipment or services offered by TCS Inc. should not be construed as inviting criminal activity. The user should ascertain if duplication might violate any rights, and obtain a written release from each affected party. Consult your attorney about any specific instance.