I did some searching and found a few old threads, but I thought I’d start a new one to get more up-to-date information. I’ve been given the task of getting 8mm family home movies digitally transferred. My family had this done once back in the '80s onto Beta tape, but I’m hoping for better results now. Has anyone had this done recently? From my research, I’ve seen that Walmart and Sam’s Club offer film transfer services locally. Has anyone used them? I’m looking for the best value without spending too much.

 

Well I don't know whether you were going to consider them but if by any chance you were- do not use Legacy Box. It's a shit company run by assholes, I know them and I've worked with them. Nobody in their actual transfer department ever lasts more than 6 weeks because the working conditions are just horrendous and everybody hates the company. Legacy box is evil.

 

You could ask if they have a professional Telecine transfer, that is the best possible option.

 

AI answer

Kodak Reels 8mm & Super 8 Films Digitizer, also priced around $300-$400.

It offers:

• 1080p output resolution
• Handles 3", 4", 5", 7", and 9" reels
• Frame-by-frame digitizing

Both options allow you to preview and digitize your films without risking damage to the originals. Keep in mind that while these budget-friendly options are great for casual viewing, they may not match the quality of professional scanning services for archival purposes.

The only question is : what are going to pay ?
For some films only, get a REAL professional work.
For a bunch of films (5+), do it yourself with a second hand (if you can) Kodak machine.

 

Right if OP needs many conversions this is above the best possible option.

 

Use an RCA to 1/4" cable if your projector has a phono (RCA) output. If it only has speaker output, don’t plug it in directly—use a passive DI box with a pad or a speaker-to-line level converter. No, you don’t need a resistor if you're using the right gear. Yes, distortion can be cleaned up in your DAW, but avoid clipping when recording.

 

I played around with lots of methods to digitize old family films. The best method was to use a white sheet hung on the wall, and record the projected footage with an iPhone! For newer camcorder with S-Vid or RCA outs, I used a Unisheen UR230A.

 

put weights (a fishing sinker will do) on the bottom with binder clamps, if you need to get the wrinkles out. Light grey, or light blue sheets will give you a different white balance if you need to warm up or cool off the footage, of course you can rebalance in DaVinci later...