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Questions/Answers

Why transfer video tapes to digital?

Video tapes become increasingly difficult to view over time due to technological advancements. Transferring your precious memories to a digital medium can be an excellent option. By transferring your videos to DVD or a USB drive, you can enjoy these memories in digital quality for many years to come.

Before choosing your company,
can I get a price estimate?

Yes. Just tell us how many tapes you want to transfer and the medium you prefer (DVD or USB drive). We will be able to provide you with a price estimate. This will give you a precise idea of the amount you will need to invest to preserve your memories in digital format. If the proposal suits you, you will need to make an appointment with us by phone, text message or email.

Do you transfer commercial
tapes?

No. We do not transfer commercial content (movies, TV series, documentaries). We focus exclusively on the transfer of personal video tapes, such as family videos and special events. Copyright respect is prioritized. However, content can be transferred if you are a participant in the television show for example.

I no longer have a device to play my tapes,
can I view them with you?

No. There is no personalized viewing at our location. However, we can tell you the content of the tapes to know your intention to transfer them or not. An image of the content can be sent by text message or email. A fee of $4 per tape will be required.

Can I do a test
with some videos beforehand?

Yes. Some clients transfer a few tapes to confirm the result of the transfer. Then, if you are satisfied, we will convert your remaining tapes.

If my cassette is 15 minutes long,
do I get a discount?

Unfortunately, no. Even if your cassette is short, we must play the entire cassette to determine if there are other sequences. A two-hour cassette will take two hours to play; it cannot be played any faster. Therefore, the processing is the same whether your cassette lasts 15 minutes or two hours.

Do I get my tapes back after the transfer?

Yes. You will retrieve your tapes at the end of the order.

What is the turnaround time for transferring
my tapes?

The normal turnaround time for transferring is generally 7 to 10 days. For larger volumes, the delay will be adapted accordingly. However, we also offer an emergency transfer service (48h) for a cost of $30 per tape.

What does the transfer of
slides or photos include?

Each photo or slide will be transferred to a jpg format. The price also includes color correction and scratch retouching if the item is not too damaged.

What format will my videos be transferred
to on a USB stick?

Each video will be converted to an MP4 file using the H.264/AVC codec, an effective and popular video compression format. This format reduces the necessary storage space while maintaining high video quality, ideal for online streaming and storage on various digital devices. The MP4 format is highly compatible, making it easy to use on many devices. A sample can be sent for testing on devices such as your computer or smart TV.

Is it possible to retrieve the
digitized files online?

Yes. Once the payment is made, you will have a secure link to download your files directly from our server. This link will be available for free if you chose the "on USB stick" option. This link will be valid for 30 days with no download limit. It is strongly suggested to make an additional backup during this time (computer or 2nd USB stick). After 30 days, your files will be erased from our server and will be irretrievable. You will then have to redo the transfer (and this has happened to a few clients unfortunately).

What happens if a tape
is damaged?

If a tape is damaged, it can generally be repaired for an additional fee of $7.50.

Are my tapes at risk of being damaged
during the transfer?

No. The transfer reads each tape as if it were in your original device.

After finalizing my order,
how long do I have to pick it up?

You have 30 days to pick up your order. After this period, DVD Laval may dispose of it, as many clients abandon their order after receiving a download link and forget to pick up their tapes.

What does the data recovery service
include?

We recover lost or accidentally deleted photos, videos and other files. The service costs $60 minimum (one hour included) plus $25 per additional hour. You must bring your computer or USB drive.

What is the video editing service?

We offer custom video editing service at $50/hour (30 minutes minimum). This includes editing your photos, videos and music according to your needs. However, you cannot be present during the editing.

What audio cassette formats
do you accept?

We transfer 60-minute audio cassettes (to CD or MP3 format) and 90-minute cassettes (to MP3 format). The price is $18 per cassette, with a $10 discount for every 5 cassettes. We also offer $5 to divide into custom chapters.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash payments and Interac transfers.

Can I send my order by mail?

You can send your tapes by mail at your expense. Once the transfer is completed, you will be contacted to pick up your order or arrange postal return at your expense (orders of $100 and more).

Do you accept other old formats
not mentioned?

We process VHS, VHS-C, Beta, MiniDV, 8mm cassettes (Video 8, Hi8), slides, negatives and audio cassettes. Contact us for other old formats - we will evaluate the possibility of processing them.

Do you offer support after the transfer?

Yes. For transfers to USB drive, we offer 30 days warranty. CD/DVDs are also guaranteed for 30 days (return for exchange if defective). You will need to return with the media to confirm its defectiveness and a new one will be offered for free.

What are your business hours?

This is a home-based business. Please make an appointment by phone or SMS at 514.831.3689.

I have other questions,
how can I reach you?

You can call us or send us a text message at 514.831.3689. Additionally, you can write to us directly on our site with this link