FIELD NOTES · ANALOG VIDEO · AI
The SaveVHS
The SaveVHS
Workbook.
Practical writing about analog video preservation, tape damage, format quirks, and what AI can and can’t do for old footage. Honest, brief, technical when needed.
N° 01 · Field NoteHow Much Does VHS to Digital Conversion Cost?
Real 2026 prices for converting VHS to digital: per-tape services, box services, retail counters and DIY, with the hidden costs each model doesn't advertise.
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N° 02 · Field NoteDIY VHS Digitizing: USB Stick vs Pro Gear
An honest DIY guide to digitizing VHS yourself: what a $25 USB capture stick really does, why the VCR matters more, and what TBC and deinterlacing change.
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N° 03 · Field NoteWhich Video Tape Do You Have? An ID Guide
Identify any home video tape by shell size and shape: VHS, VHS-C, S-VHS, Video8, Hi8, Digital8, MiniDV and Betamax, and what to do with each one in 2026.
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N° 04 · Field NoteSticky-Shed Syndrome: What It Is and the Fix
Sticky-shed syndrome explained: why some VHS and Hi8 tapes become unplayable, how the magnetic binder fails, and what professional baking can do to recover them.
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N° 05 · Field NoteAI Upscaling for Old Home Videos: What to Expect
Honest take on AI video upscaling: what modern neural models actually do for VHS, Hi8 and MiniDV footage, when it helps, and when it doesn't matter.
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N° 06 · Field NoteHow Long Do VHS Tapes Really Last?
The honest answer about VHS tape lifespan, what causes degradation, and how to tell if yours are still in good shape. Plus when to digitize before it's too late.
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