Betacam SP to digital file transfer

Betacam SP (superior performance) superseded the Betacam format and was initially launched in 1987. The SP variant of Betacam had a higher horizontal resolution of 340 lines. Although similar in appearance to Betacam, the tape formulation is different (ferric oxide vs metal formulation). Some VTR’s will play both formats.
Tapes were available in 2 sizes, the smaller for use in EFP / ENG cameras and the larger for use in studio and postproduction environments. The smaller tapes had run times of up to 30 minutes as opposed to the larger tapes with run times of up to 90 minutes. Betacam SP is a standard definition analogue component video format.

A Betacam small cassette. Betacam SP tapes are almost identical in appearance and can be identified by the logo on the tape flap.

We can transfer Betacam SP, Digital Betacam, Betacam SX and Betacam to digital files for use in archiving or editing applications. We can supply the files as compressed MP4 or uncompressed MOV.
Contact us for more information on this service.
Standards Conversion
Standards conversion from NTSC 3.58 and NTSC 4.43 to PAL for most of the analogue video formats we support. The NTSC format applies to tapes recorded in countries such as USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Philippines (to name a few).

Moisture and mould damage

Betacam SP video tapes are very susceptible to damage from moisture and incorrect storage. Long term exposure to moisture can cause irreversible damage. If there are signs of mould on the tape, consider getting them digitized sooner rather than later. Mould damaged tape can be saved, see our tape repair page.
Output file type options include (but are not limited to) the following
- Compressed MP4 – H264
- Uncompressed MOV
- Custom file types – contact us with your requirements.
Contact us for more information on this service.