PacLab

[becomedeath]

I was wondering if anyone has used PacLab in NYC to do super8 video transfers? They're about a mile from me and was wondering how good the transfers would be considering that it is only $10. Any information is greatly appreciated.

Tayman Strahorn

[sharonhardy]

I used them once for a video transfer recently, and thought they was very good. Probably not to Moviestuff standards, but fine nonetheless. Like you, I'm near there, so the convenience and price make it a great deal. Plus, if I recall, they finish it same day if you bring it in by 10am.

[AkivaFilms]

Ditto!

Diddo?

...I agree. PacLabn is cool and fun for everyone.

[GREATwarEAGLE]

I had them transfer two reels of mine and I cannot recommend them. Unless they've changed. This was some time around January 2002 I think.

To be fair, they dont advertise a "professional transfer" so I cant hold them to that. And yes, $10 isn't much. But their transfer doesn't do super-8 any justice

-added grain from the texture of the wall, or projection screen- whatever they used - seriously, it adds like twice the grain -not a smooth surface

-they could only do it at 20fps, my footage was 24, there's a noticeable difference

-image was cropped. I dont know why, but I think they zoomed the video camera in

-color was off

PAC LAB is good just for a quickie transfer. But I wouldn't use them for a narrative or a demo.

If we all live in NYC, maybe we can get together. I'll show you guys the transfer. And becomedeath, dont you have transfers from Moviestuff. We could watch that as I 've yet to see his work on a regular television.

[becomedeath]

I suppose it should have been obvious that PacLab wouldn't compare to Roger, but considering the short distance to them and 1/2 the price, I thought it would be a good idea to atleast inquire. Yes, I have three rolls transfered onto VHS from Moviestuff and would be more than happy to show you. I would also like to see the PacLab transfer you have, mainly to broaden my horizons. I just bought and received 10 rolls of K40 which I plan to shoot middle next week (wednesday or thursday, the 18th or 19th) in Tompkins Square Park at the chess tables (southwest corner), which is where I spend the majority of my time when not working. I suppose that I have no real plan on what to shoot exactly, but will just see what happens, do some interviews, play a few games, film a few games, play a few more. My telephone number is (212) 529 8241, if, as you mentioned, you would like to "swap" transfers. If I am not home, leave a message, and I will call you back immediately. Thanks for the PacLab info. I will stick to Roger.

Tayman Strahorn