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ADS Tech's Instant DVD+MP3 is a combination hardware/software solution that enables you to convert most all types of analog and digital video files as well as analog audio recordings from devices such as turntables and cassette players. The device serves several purposes, as the connections available give you the capability to capture and convert media from several analog as well as digital (FireWire) solutions.
Hardware
The Instant DVD+MP3 hardware device includes provisions for capturing DV video via a four pin connector on the front of the unit, as well as composite video in/out ports. The rear of the unit includes S-Video in/out ports, audio in/out ports for an external device such as a turntable or cassette player, and video I/O. The device is connected to the computer via a USB port. In addition to the hardware box, ADS has included composite cables, USB cable, and a 6ft. four pin to four pin FireWire cable. Instant DVD+MP3 enables you to capture directly to the DiVx video format and features an audio lock technology that the company says keeps the audio synced with the video for perfect lip sync. You can also capture DVD video at a wide range of video bit rates, from 2Mb/sec. to 15 Mb/sec. So if you need to get more video on a DVD or want better quality video, you can select the appropriate bit rate accordingly.
Software
The software that ships with the unit includes the ADS Capture Wizard application that enables you to capture video and audio, Ulead VideoStudio 9 SE DVD edition for editing your captured video and outputting it to DVD, and the Nero SoundTrax and Wave editor for audio authoring. These are entry level solutions that enable you to quickly get your media onto DVD, or if you wish, you can work with the applications to create more sophisticated projects.
Setup
Setting up Instant DVD +MP3 involves plugging the AC adapter into the unit and into a power strip, and then plugging the USB cable into the unit and your computer. The ADS Capture Wizard 3.7 driver is located on one CD along with the Nero audio tools while Ulead VideoStudio 9SE DVD edition is located on the second CD. After you install the drivers, the setup wizard says that a Capture Wizard icon was placed on the desktop. This was not the case in my experience. When I tried to locate the Capture Wizard via All programs, the Instant DVD+MP3 was present as a program but it was empty. I initially thought the drivers didn't install, so I went through the installation process again but came with the same results. No icon on the desktop and an empty program folder from the Start menu. I had to access the Capture Wizard from the Programs folder on the C: drive and create a shortcut to place on the desktop, a minor hiccup that might be a pain for the less computer inclined.
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| Step 1, here you select a video standard |
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| Step 2: The video format is selected. |
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| Step 3: You name and select location for saved video. |
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| Step 4: this window determines how much space/time is available. |
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| Step 5. ready to start the capture process. |
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