U-matic tape digitisation LB, HB and SP
We digitise low band (LB), high band (HB) and SP U-matic tapes in our lab in Barcelona, with broadcast equipment and time base correctors (TBC). We deliver in ProRes, MXF, MOV or MP4, with quality control and a report for every tape, and we collect material from anywhere in Spain.
Which U-matic do you have
- U-matic LB (low band)
- The first version, from the 1970s and 80s: broadcasters, universities, businesses and institutional video.
- U-matic HB (high band)
- An improved version with more definition, common in professional production in the 80s.
- U-matic SP
- The highest-quality version, used in television and for masters until the 90s.
In practice, low and high band are rarely marked on the label: we check it when reviewing each tape.
How we do it
- 1
Inventory and physical check
Every tape gets a QR label and is checked before playback: shell condition, mould or damaged tape. If it needs treatment, we tell you and quote it before touching it.
- 2
Broadcast playback
On professional VCRs with time base correctors (TBC): a stable picture with no jumps or jitter.
- 3
Capture in the format you need
At native resolution or in HD with Blackmagic Design equipment, in the codec your archive or production company requires.
- 4
Quality control for every tape
Picture, sound and sync checked from start to finish. For professional projects the per-tape report is always delivered.
- 5
Organised delivery
On hard drive or by download, with file names following your inventory.
- 6
Originals returned
The tapes come back as they arrived, with their identification label.
Delivery formats
ProRes, MXF, MOV, MP4 (H.264 or H.265) or MKV, at native resolution or in HD. If your archive has its own specification, we follow it.
Price
Professional formats are quoted by number of tapes, running time and delivery format. We send you a fixed quote within 24 working hours, with no obligation.
Quality control for every tape
We check every tape in full — picture, sound and sync — and your job is documented in a report with one page per tape.
Who it is for
Archives and institutions
Collections from the 70s, 80s and 90s: events, lectures, documentaries and institutional recordings.
Broadcasters and production companies
Old programmes, rushes and masters that only exist on U-matic.
Businesses and individuals
Wedding masters, corporate videos and event recordings.
The same lab that works for
- TV3-CCMA12,500 tapes, 39,000 hours
- La Ligaover 12,000 tapes
- UNED16,000 reels
Frequently asked questions
Do you digitise U-matic LB, HB and SP?
Yes, all three, with broadcast equipment and time base correctors (TBC), in our lab in Barcelona.
How do I know if my tapes are low band, high band or SP?
SP is usually marked on the label; low and high band rarely are. You don't need to know: we check it when reviewing each tape.
Which format do you deliver?
Whatever you need: ProRes, MXF, MOV, MP4 (H.264 or H.265) or MKV, at native resolution or in HD.
How much does it cost to digitise a U-matic tape?
It is quoted by number of tapes, running time and delivery format. We send you a fixed quote within 24 working hours.
What if a tape has mould?
We check the tapes before playback. If they need treatment, we tell you and quote it before touching them.
Your professional archive in safe hands
Tell us how many tapes you have and the format you need: we'll send you a quote within 24 working hours.