Best way to archive video to DVD

[elprincipe]

I have a large number of videotapes I want to record to DVDs. Also I will be recording a large number of programs in the future that I'll want to record to DVDs.

I see two choices here. One is a PC with the proper inputs and a DVD burner. The other is a DVR/DVD burner combo where I simply record programs on the DVR and then burn the ones I want onto DVDs.

What is the better choice? If possible I'd like to be able to make nice DVDs with title screens and all that jazz. Is that possible on a DVR/DVD recorder? Or do I need specialized software for a PC to do that? If so, what software is good and what's the cost?

Thanks in advance to anyone with more knowledge than me in this area who is willing to share it!

 

[S0CREF]

[quote name='elprincipe']If possible I'd like to be able to make nice DVDs with title screens and all that jazz. Is that possible on a DVR/DVD recorder? Or do I need specialized software for a PC to do that? If so, what software is good and what's the cost?[/QUOTE]

You would need a pc application for menus and the like. Cost just depends on what level of difficulty you are comfortable with. I use an application called Sonic Scenarist for my DVD authoring, but that is a highly difficuly program to use.

http://www.sonic.com/products/Professional/Scenarist/quicklook.aspx

These three are also highly used by people who are less experienced with professional menu/dvd making applications--

DVD Lab - http://www.mediachance.com/dvdlab/
ULead DVD Workshop - http://www.ulead.com/dws/runme.htm
TMPGEnc DVD Author - http://www.pegasys-inc.com/en/product/tda.html

 

[CappyCobra]

I use a setup box for standard DVD fanfare. If you want to get a little fancier with the menus & transitions, then the PC route is the only one. Ulead DVD moviefactory is a good start for the novice. Be aware that Ulead does not support AC3 audio (Dolby) so make sure you recorder can record in PCM audio (WAV). If your willing to spend the extra loot, DVD-RAM is the slickest way to go if you need to do alot of editing. Below is the recorder I use:
http://www.dealtime.com/xPF-Panasonic_DMR_E80
There are better ones with Firewire/I-link (to hook up your camcorder) but for what it does it does well.

 

[ZForce]

I've got a Panasonic DVD Recorder that worked very well for my needs. It also makes basic menus and it was reasonably cheap (The model I got was like $200-250 when I bought it a year ago) That's probably the easiest route for basic VHS Archiving.