Q: What makes The Reel House different from the rest?
A:

  • Our Hi8 Tape to DVD prices are simple to understand and very reasonable.  Most others charge setup fees, hourly fees, and many other add-ons that make the whole process very confusing. We have a simple flat rate per tape if that’s all your looking for.
  • Our quality is impeccable. We use the highest level Sony 8Hi editor to convert your video tapes.
  • We will archive all of your video, and file it under your name if requested.  This provides an extra layer of protection in case you lose or break your DVD, have a fire, etc.  This also allows us to make additional copies of your Hi8 tape to DVD transfer at a later date without having to send anything to us.
  • We have an extremely fast turnaround time (About 6 business days or less from the time we receive an order until we ship it back out).

Q: How do I order?
A:

Our Hi8 Tape to DVD ordering process is very simple.  First, print out our order form and fill it out.  Next, put your tapes in the order you want to see them on the DVD (if you have selected our merge option), and write a number series on the reels (1 through the end) with a Sharpie or other marker.  If you want individual titles for each Tape, either write them on the Tape, or include a page showing each Tape number and the title you want. Please limit Tape titles to a total of 15 characters and spaces.

Next, package your Hi8 Tapes and order form securely in a good box and send it to us.  We highly recommend using UPS due to the security of your shipment, and the ability to track your shipment via the internet.  Once we receive your shipment, we will complete your Hi8 Tape to DVD transfer within about 6 business days, and then ship both your DVD and your original Tapes back to you.  We will charge your credit card account using the number you provide us on your order form.  UPS will also send you an email confirming your order has been shipped, along with a tracking number.

Q: How do I receive the DVDs?
A:

We return your DVDs and original tapes by UPS. We charge a one-way shipping fee of $5 for every 5 tapes. We will email you that your shipment is on the way and UPS will send you a tracking number.

Q: Do you return the Original Tapes?
A:

Yes. We return the original tapes along with your DVDs.

Q. Can I edit the DVDs on my computer?
A:

You can do this by using our optional MPEG DVD service. The regular DVDs are designed to be viewed on a TV. You can not edit them. The MPEG DVD option provides you a Data DVD with your video in MPEG format, in addition to regular DVDs. You can then use the Data DVD to edit your video in your favorite editing program on your computer.

Q: What different types of video tapes do you support?
A:

Hi8 and VHS tapes.

Q: Do you convert film reels?
A:

Yes we do. Just click on the Film to DVD button in the Menu Selection on the left.

Q: Do you offer video enhancement services?
A:

Yes we do. It is on an hourly rate and includes color correction, special features like Picture-in-Picture, slow motion, removal of unwanted scenes (an hour long soccer game where your son only appears for 10 minutes) and custom menus.

Q: Do you support conversion of PAL format?
A:

We support both NTSC and PAL formats. PAL conversion is available for an additional charge of $10 per tape.

Q: How long does it take to process my order?
A:

Usually one week to 10 days from the time we receive the tapes. This may vary depending on the size and the complexity of the order.
We do offer rush service for more urgent orders (only for Level 2 and Level 3 orders) for additional cost.

Q: Do you take orders from customers out side US?
A:

No, we do not take online orders from outside the US at this time.

Q: What methods of payment do you accept?
A:

We accept Visa, Master Card,  Discover Card and personal check. However, no processing is started until a personal check has cleared our bank. Should the check bounce, no processing or return shipping will be completed until a $45 fee + the order charges are paid (no personal checks this time). We believe that this is only fare to both parties.

Q: Do you offer these services at any of the retail stores?
A:

No, Not at this time although we are working on that.

Q: Do you allow custom modifications for video editing?
A:

No, We do not take custom projects at this time. We do have an hourly editing option were we will work with someone for a limited time.

Q: Do you include chapter breaks in the DVDs?
A:

Yes, menu with chapter breaks are included (only for Level 2 and Level 3 packages) at 15 min intervals for easy access. You can navigate the chapters from menu or by using ‘next’ and ‘prev’ buttons on your remote.

Q: Can we order additional DVD copies?
A:

Yes, you can specify the number of additional DVD copies at the time of the order. We do offer archived service so a re-order is a simple matter.

Q: Do you offer online video storage service?
A:

No, but we do offer archived service so a re-order is a simple matter.

Q: How can I order different type of options for the same type of tapes?
A:

You need to place separate orders for each option. This is necessary to reduce confusion and mix-ups.

Q: Can I make copies of DVDs produced by The Reel House?
A:

Yes, The DVDs are yours and you have full rights on how you use them.

Q: Do you convert VHS-C tapes? What is the price?
A:

No, not at this time.

Q: Do you combine multiple tapes on a DVD?
A:

For Level 2 and Level 3 DVD package orders, we will combine multiple tapes on a single DVD (up to 2 hours) on special request. The price is based on the number of tapes not DVDs.

Q: What is the conversion price for PAL tapes?
A:

PAL conversion is available for an additional charge of $10 per tape.

Q: Can I make modifications to my order after placing the order?
A:

Yes. As long as we have not started processing your order, you can make modifications to the order. Once the converting process has started the only changes allowed are after conversion add-ons. A new additional order form must be filled out and submitted with your additions.

Q: I don’t need regular TV DVD. Can we only order data DVD?
A:

No, the data DVD service is only available as an add-on option with the regular TV DVDs.

Q: Can we bring the tapes to you in person?
A:

Yes, if you are local to our area you can bring the order to us in person. You can also pick up the order or we will ship it back to you.

Q: Do you have a rush service?
A:

Yes, a rush service for Level 2 and Level 3 DVD package orders is available for additional cost. The turnaround time for rush orders is 3 days (for large size orders this may be a bit longer).

Q: Do you convert copyright content?
A:

We can convert copyright content if you send us a signed note saying that the DVDs are only for personal use and not for selling to others.

Q: Do you accept mature content?
A:

Due to all kinds of issues, including liability issues, local and federal laws, the answer is No we do not. However, there are always circumstances that may allow us to do so if certain guidelines are followed so if you would like you are welcome to call us and discuses the matter in more detail.

Q: Can you repair tapes before converting them?
A:

No, We only accept tapes that can be played without any problems. WE do not have the proper equipment to correctly repair video tape. We are not responsible for any defective tapes sent to us.

Q: Can I edit the data DVDs on my Mac computer?
A:

Yes & No. Our data DVDs work only on Windows computers. There are MPEG to MAC converting software packages available and once our MPEG files are run through the converting software you can edit it with a MAC.  I would suggest that you check with some MAC forums. As we do not guarantee this to work.