shidoshi wrote:Any luck or updates on this TBC / Frame sync issue? This is an older thread, just curious.
I've always advised people trying to capture (or uprez) VHS material to find a JVC BR-S822 or a Panasonic AG-7750. When the JVC was released in the early 1990s, I told everybody, "this is the best VHS machine ever made," and I think it still wears that crown (albeit now as an antique). Both have built-in full-fledged TBCs and can do a remarkable job playing back old VHS tapes, provided a) the heads on the VCR are still good, and b) the tapes are SP speed. If they're LP or EP, you'll have to get something like a Panasonic AG-1980, which is a very rudimentary TBC in it but will play back the oddball speeds.
I've seen used JVC BR-S822 and Panasonic AG-7750's going for about $200-$250 on eBay in years past, and owned two different 822's. They're built like tanks, very solid, but again the key is to make sure the heads are still good. A trip to the service shop may be necessary to make sure they're still in alignment with the factory standard.
There are also good companies out there specializing in capturing analog videotapes to digital, and I can get you a llst if you need them. It's cheaper to do it yourself, but there's always value in hiring a real pro to take care of things like this.