Tape2USB Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about converting old VHS tapes, camcorder recordings, audio cassettes, MiniDiscs, vinyl, DVDs or cine film?
This guide answers the most common questions about Tape2USB's digitisation services, supported formats, digital outputs, pricing, USB options and how your original media is handled.
Tape2USB is based in Orpington, Kent, and services start from £10 per item.
General questions
What does Tape2USB do?
Tape2USB digitises a wide range of old video, audio and film media. Supported services include VHS and S-VHS, Betamax, Video8, Hi8, Digital8, MiniDV, home-made DVDs and Mini DVDs, Compact Cassettes, Microcassettes, Reel-to-Reel tapes, MiniDiscs, vinyl records and 8mm cine film.
Where is Tape2USB based?
Tape2USB is based in Orpington, Kent, UK. Contact Tape2USB for the current trading/drop-off address.
How much does Tape2USB cost?
Tape2USB services start from £10 per item.
Can I provide my own USB stick?
Yes. Customers can provide their own USB stick. Tape2USB also offers 32GB SanDisk USB sticks for £9.
Do I need to contact Tape2USB before sending my tapes?
Yes. Tape2USB specifically asks customers to contact the business before dropping off or posting irreplaceable family memories.
VHS & video questions
Can VHS tapes be converted to digital?
Yes. VHS tapes can be transferred to MP4 digital video files by Tape2USB.
Can VHS tapes be put onto USB?
Yes. The finished digital video files can be supplied on USB.
Can you convert S-VHS?
Yes. S-VHS is supported.
Can you convert NTSC VHS tapes?
Yes. Tape2USB supports NTSC VHS and S-VHS as well as PAL formats.
What format are VHS tapes converted to?
VHS and other supported video recordings are converted to MP4 digital video files.
Can you convert Betamax?
Yes. Betamax is listed among Tape2USB's supported video and camcorder tape formats.
Can you convert Video8?
Yes. Video8 is supported and transferred to MP4.
Can you convert Hi8?
Yes. Hi8 is supported and transferred to MP4.
Can you convert Digital8?
Yes. Digital8 is supported and transferred to MP4.
Can you convert MiniDV?
Yes. MiniDV is supported and transferred to MP4.
DVD questions
Can you convert DVDs to digital?
Tape2USB can convert home-made DVDs and Mini DVDs to MP4 files supplied on USB.
Can you convert Mini DVDs?
Yes. Mini DVDs are listed among Tape2USB's supported media.
Audio questions
Can cassette tapes be converted to digital?
Yes. Tape2USB can convert Compact Cassettes to digital audio files.
Can Microcassettes be digitised?
Yes. Microcassettes are supported.
Can Reel-to-Reel tapes be digitised?
Yes. Tape2USB supports ¼-inch Reel-to-Reel tapes, including quarter-track and half-track formats within the stated specifications.
What Reel-to-Reel speeds are supported?
The current Tape2USB information states support for tape speeds from 1⅞ IPS to 7½ IPS, with higher speeds handled through post-production. It also states that 10½-inch NAB spools are supported on half-track tapes only.
Can MiniDiscs be converted to digital?
Yes. Tape2USB can convert standard ATRAC MiniDiscs into digital audio files.
Can vinyl records be converted to digital?
Yes. Tape2USB can convert 33⅓ and 45 RPM vinyl records into digital audio files.
Digital audio formats
What audio formats can I receive?
Tape2USB currently lists MP3 stereo at 320 kbps, WAV at 16-bit or 24-bit up to 96 kHz, FLAC and other audio options. Confirm the preferred output format when booking.
8mm cine film questions
Can 8mm cine film be converted to digital?
Yes. Tape2USB can transfer Standard 8 and Super 8 cine film with sound to High Definition MP4 files.
Can Super 8 film be digitised?
Yes. Super 8 with sound is supported.
What format will my cine film become?
Tape2USB supplies 8mm cine film transfers as High Definition MP4 files, which can be supplied on USB.
Handling & safety questions
Is my media sent to another company?
No. Tape2USB states that media is digitised at Tape2USB and is not outsourced.
Do you repair damaged tapes?
No. Tape2USB does not repair or clean family memories.
Will I get my original tapes back?
Yes, Tape2USB will return your original tapes and films by collection or by post (at extra cost).
File organisation
How are my digital files organised?
Tape2USB states that separate items are organised into separate folders and labelled. Where possible, separate parts of video or audio recordings can also be labelled as separate MP4 or audio files.
Can I have my own USB stick?
Yes. You can provide your own USB stick, or purchase a 32GB SanDisk USB stick from Tape2USB for £9.
Getting started
How do I start a tape transfer?
Contact Tape2USB and tell us what type and quantity of media you have. If you're unsure about the format, contact us before sending or dropping off your recordings.
Where do I drop off my tapes?
Tape2USB is based in Orpington, Kent. Contact the business for the current trading/drop-off address before visiting.
Can I send my tapes by post?
The customer can arrange postage, but Tape2USB recommends direct drop-off for irreplaceable family memories because of the risk of damage or loss during posting. Contact Tape2USB before sending your recordings.
Still not sure whether Tape2USB can convert your recording?
That's okay. Older media comes in many different formats, and it isn't always obvious what type of tape, disc or film you have.
Contact Tape2USB before sending your irreplaceable recordings.
Tell us what you have—or describe the format—and Tape2USB will help you establish the best next step.