How to Dub VCR Tapes

Standard composite AV cables for connecting VCRs.

Dubbing VCR tapes requires either two VCRs, or a VHS camcorder and a VCR, connected by a composite audio-video cable. Adding a TV to the set-up makes it possible to monitor the recording progress, but is optional. A second composite AV cable is needed for the TV connection. Unlike digital recording technology, VCR tapes dub in real time, which means the recording time takes as long as the tape must play to the end of the program.

Things You'll Need

• Two VCRs or VCR and VHS comcorder
• Two composite AV cables
• TV
• Blank VHS tapes

Instructions

1. Connect one composite AV cable from the three output jacks on the playback VCR to the input jacks on a camcorder or the dubbing VCR. Match the plugs to the jack colors.

2. Connect the second composite AV cable from the dubbing VCR's playback jacks to a set of inputs on a TV.

3. Turn on all three components and tune both the dubbing VCR and TV to channel 3 or 4.

4. Insert a pre-recorded tape in the playback VCR and rewind to the starting point. Insert a blank tape in the dubbing VCR.

5. Press "Play" on the playback VCR and "Record" on the dubbing VCR to begin copying. The progress can be monitored on the TV.

References

• UVA Com Lab: Recording VCR to VCR (analog dub)