NTSC vs PAL

Jeslek

Jeslek

Banned
Alright. We have a VCR that can record in both modes and play back in both modes, as well as convert between each other. The reason? We traveled a lot and different countries uses different systems. However, I'm just wondering... Which system is better to use for recording shows off TV?

As I see it, NTSC rolls at 30 frames per second (and the TV is 60 Hz) compared to PAL which is 25 frames per second (and the TVs in Europe are 50Hz). Obviously NTSC is the winner here because more fps = better, and a higher refresh rate is also better.

The gray area starts at the resolution. PAL has 80 scan lines extra over NTSC, so if you have a full screen movie, those 80 lines will give you a higher resolution picture. However, most TV shows I watch on Sci-Fi are widescreen format, where the extra lines willl actually just be filled with black. Isn't this then a bad thing, having more black space at the top and bottom? However, for full screen PAL would be better because it is a higher resolution, provided the broadcast is in PAL right?

Now, where do HDTV fit in? I don't think it has different systems, but I could be wrong. Does anyone know? Thanks...
 
Best thing to do is to record them in the same norm as the source.
 
Hey, where did you get a vcr that records in both formats? I could really use one of those too.

I didn't even realize you could get such a thing. Well, thats kind of cool. I bet they aren't cheap though. Its probably something like proscan or something high end to make it even more expensive right?
 
I can play both formats but I only record in PAL. I would have said recording in the same format as the source as well.
 
ok, thats what I expected. I think I will stick with converting to divx. Its worth the hassle at that price. TV out is so good these days compared to what they used to be that I guess for that price i will still go with cdrs and divix. Thanks for the info!
 
Jerrek said:
Its a Samsung... Was $500 (US) or so. I rarely use it though... mostly my parents.
Click to expand...

If you actually get into the Marine Corps, that VCR may come in handy...In fact, I've got a region-free DVD that converts to NTSC, PAL, and SECAM. Cost me a little extra ($299 USD), but worth the price. ;)
 
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