How long does digitizing take?

Most orders are ready in 7-10 business days. Rush service available for urgent needs.

What if my tapes are damaged or moldy?

We can often work with damaged tapes. Mold treatment and repairs are available for an additional fee. We'll assess during drop-off and let you know options and costs.

What formats do you accept?

VHS, VHS-C, MiniDV, Hi8, 8mm, Digital8, Betamax, and MiniDVD. We can also handle non-NTSC formats (PAL/SECAM). We do not handle Super-8 film.

How do I know my tapes are safe?

Your tapes are labeled immediately upon arrival, stored in climate-controlled space, and handled with care throughout the process.

What if I don't know how long my tapes are?

No problem! Most home recordings are 2 hours or less (included in base $50 price). We'll check actual length during digitizing and only charge for extended time if needed.

Do you offer delivery or shipping?

Currently we operate by local drop-off and pickup in London, Ontario. We serve customers throughout Southwestern Ontario by appointment.

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, e-transfer, and card at pickup. Payment is due when you pick up your completed order.

Can I get my files via cloud/download instead of USB?

USB is included with every order. Digital delivery options can be arranged.

What happens if a tape breaks during transfer?

While rare, if it happens we stop immediately, repair if possible, and discuss options with you before proceeding.

How much do volume orders cost?

10-19 tapes receive 10% discount. 20+ tapes receive 15% discount. Use our online calculator for an instant estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions — Video Digitizing in London, Ontario

Most orders are ready in 7-10 business days. Rush service available for urgent needs - contact us for pricing and availability.
We can often work with damaged tapes; snapped or twisted tapes can usually be fixed well enough to play for capture.. Mold can be a disqualifier - doesn’t tend to ruin the image and sound, but does bad things to the playback equipment and my health. We'll assess during drop-off and let you know options and costs before proceeding.
Video: VHS, S-VHS, VHS-C and S-VHS-C, MiniDV, Hi8, Video8 and Digital8. Audio: cassette and reel-to-reel. Discs and cards: DVD, MiniDVD, CD, and memory cards. I can also handle non-NTSC videocassettes including PAL and SECAM. I don't do Super-8 film, and all my Betamax machines are currently non-cooperative. Not sure what you've got? Bring it anyway, or send me a photo. Working out what a tape is is part of the job.
Fair question. I look like a video-obsessed wizard-hermit. Your tapes are taken into a climate-controlled space and handled with the care I give my own recordings — only better. Chain of custody is maintained at all times.
No problem! Most home recordings are 2 hours or less (included in base $50 price). We'll check actual length during digitizing and only charge for extended time if needed. For example, if you specify you only want the family video, and there are four hours of TV shows afterward, I won’t stick you with the overage.
Currently we operate by local drop-off and pickup in London, Ontario. We serve customers throughout Southwestern Ontario by appointment. If you’re local and have a big collection you need digitized but can’t get out, hey, that’s worth coming to YOU for! Get in touch.
Cash, Interac e-transfer, or by credit card via invoice. Payment is due when you pick up your completed order.
USB is included with every order. Digital delivery options can be arranged - usually on Dropbox - contact us to discuss your preferences.
While rare, if it happens we stop immediately, and repair if possible. It’s usually possible.
10–19 tapes get 10% off. 20 or more get 15% off. The discount comes off the base rate and I apply it automatically — you don't need to ask. Full details on the pricing page.

A stack of VHS VCRs in the London video capture studio at Cygnals Multimedia.

Frequently Asked Questions — Video Digitizing in London, Ontario

Cygnals Multimedia