super8

16mm Film Audio Transfer

Overview Currently we are transferring 16mm film using the Retro-16 Pro to scan the film and the Sniper-16 HD to scan the optical audio.  After scanning, I drop the Retro16 footage on the Vegas timeline and the Sniper footage with audio on the Vegas timeline below.  The audio will be sync'ed up with the footage from the Sniper...now we need to sync the audio to the footage from the Retro.  The Sniper footage can be a big help, as you can line up the frames between the Sniper and Retro footage.

Notes:

The audio track should be the "master" and you should not really change the audio track speed or length, etc.  Change the Retro footage....much simpler.

Sync Procedure

  1. Drop footage from both Retro and Sniper onto the timeline.  The Sniper will automatically include the audio track.
  2. Find the middle of the footage and mark it...preferably at a scene change.
  3. Go to the end and check the footage sync....mark scene changes
  4. Go to the start and find a scene change and mark it
  5. If the scenes are in sync, your done....if not continue
  6. I went through the timeline and marked the Retro and Sniper video scene selections.
    1. I used "sync" for the Sniper and "SYNC" for the Retro.
    2. I also made a note in the Retro mark of the distance between the marks.
  7. In my example I found the last 60% of the footage was in sync and the first 40% was not
    1. The 40% not in sync was about 27 seconds out at the start and the gap between the outage narrowed to 0 seconds by the time we were 40% into the footage.  To bad there is no graduated stretch.
    2. I basically cut up the 40% into scenes and stretched each scene...this meant each scene would be a decreasing stretch, in my case, as we approached the 40% mark.
    3. I started by finding the first scene change and splitting it.
    4. Then I moved the scene so the start lined up with the Sniper footage.
    5. Then I stretched the footage on the right until the footage lined up with the end of the Sniper scene.
    6. Then I checked to make sure the audio was in sync for this scene.
    7. I continued this cut, line-up, stretch until the 40% footage was done.
    8. Then I checked to make sure the audio was in sync for the entire footage.

Film Audio Transfer - Super8, 8mm

Purpose & Overview This describes the procedure to transfer audio from Super8 sound film and from 8mm sound film.  The general process is to run the film through a projector that can read the audio track and transfer the audio to the computer.  Once on the computer the audio can then be merged with the video.

Overview Connections

Projector (currently the Elmo) connects to the Echo Layla box via a 3.5 stereo cable should be plugged into the rear of the Layla box in position "line input" 7.  Layla box plugs into Layla PCI card in Audio Capture system/computer.

8mm Equipment Required

8mm/Super8 sound projector. Eumig Mark S 710D. Now using the Elmo Projector.

  • power transformer for 120v 60Hz to 220v 50Hz conversion.

Super8 take up reel.  Sankyo reel is a good one (not with the Elmo).

Echo Layla box.

The XP PC called "Music" to record the audio onto.

3.5mm stereo male to 5 pin DIN cable to connect the PC (via the Echo Layla) to the projector.  This cable could replace the one that is plugged into the Echo Layla box.

Super8 Equipment Required

Super8 sound projector. Yashica Sound P820. Now using the ELMO.

Super8 take up reel.

Echo Layla box.

The XP PC called "Music" to record the audio onto.

3.5mm stereo male to male cable cable that should be already connected to the Echo Layla and should be plugged into the projector's "monitor out" jack.

Summary

Play the  sound film through the  sound projector and record the output audio onto the PC.  In post the audio files are merged with the video that was transferred using the Retro units.

8mm Steps

  1. Set up the Eumig projector near the Echo Layla box in the recroom.
  2. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  3. Connect "Music" to the projector using the 5 pin DIN to 3.5mm stereo cable.  There will be a 3.5mm cable already plugged into the Echo Layla box....replace this cable wit the 3.5mm to 5 pin DIN cable.  The 3.5 stereo plug should be plugged into the female 3.5mm/1/4" adaptor plugged into the Layla and the 5 pin DIN plug should be plugged into the DIN socket labeled with a "play" symbol (side of the projector with the knobs and switches, nearest the front of the lens).
  4. Open Sony Vegas on Music and create a new audio track.  There should be a 2 track sample in the RAW folder.
  5. Make sure the audio input is set to line-in..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  6. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  7. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the first position (load).
  8. Just below the lens is a black "push-switch"....push this and hold it.
  9. Feed the film into the front slot above the lens.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then rewind the film.
  10. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch.  You can also let go of the "push-switch" once the film appears at the back of the projector.
  11. Make sure the projector's volume control knob labelled with a Nike swoosh is set around 10:30 o'clock (you may want to test this setting).
  12. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where to record c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  13. Once your satisfied with the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector
  14. Clockwise rotate the run knob to either position to run the film.
  15. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  16. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise).
  17. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  18. Match up the audio to the video.

Super8 Steps

  1. Set up the projector near the Echo Layla box in the recroom.
  2. Remove ELMO cover off the projector (pull straight out) so that one can see the film's path
  3. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  4. Connect "Music" to the projector using the 3.5mm male-male stereo cable.  The 3.5 stereo plug should already be plugged into the Echo Layla that in turn is connected to "Music".  The other end of the 3.5mm plug cable should be plugged into the "MONITOR-OUT" jack at the back of the projector.
  5. Open Sony Vegas on Music and create a new audio track.  There should be a 1 track TEMPLATE in the F:/RAW folder.
  6. Make sure the audio input is plugged  into the MONITOR OUT jack..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  7. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  8. Make sure the projector control labelled "volume" is set around 12 o'clock.
  9. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the last position to the right as this includes audio capture.
  10. Just above the lens is a green "PUSH" button on top....push and hold this (it will not stay down).
  11. Feed the film into the green front slot.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then turn the knob left to rewind the film.
  12. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch.
  13. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where to record c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  14. Once your satisfied with the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector (all the way to the right (clockwise))
  15. Clockwise rotate the run knob to the furthest point (play audio).
  16. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  17. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise). Or just take the reel off and use the manual winders.
  18. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  19. Match up the audio to the video.

Editing And Syncing Audio - Super8

Assume that when the audio is captured via the projector, the projector is run at the right speed for that particular film and therefore the audio should be correct and not require much if any adjusting.  The adjusting should be done to the video.  You'll find that the video and audio will never match at first.

If the audio requires adjusting then it will need to be adjusted by doing a time stretch:

  • right click the audio track and select the properties.
  • "Audio Event" tab should open.
  • Under the "Time Stretch / pitch shift" update the Method: drop down to "Classic"
  • Check the Pitch change: Lock to stretch box and fill in the ratio with:
    • 1.45 in the Super8 film is 18fps
    • 5.00 if the Super8 film is 24fps (the projector is run at 18fps)

Sometimes the ratio may need to be adjusted a little to fit perfectly.  One can also stretch the video a little to fit too (in addition to setting the ratio first).

Issue Existing With 8mm Audio

We still have a hum in the audio.  I tried moving the "disc"s around and optimized the hum but did not eliminate it.  The projector's power plug has been altered and the Euro plug replaced with a two prong America plug.  This plugs in the transformer.  The original plug had a ground and I thought this may be an issue for the hum and Peter Knight told me that a ground would NOT change the hum.

============================================================================================

Elmo Sound ST-800 Super8 Projector with Audio

Purpose & Overview

This describes the procedure to transfer audio from Super8 sound film and from 8mm sound film.  The general process is to run the film through a projector that can read the audio track and transfer the audio to the computer.  Once on the computer the audio can then be merged with the video via Sony Vegas.

Overview Connections

Projector connects to the Echo Layla box via a 3.5 stereo cable that should be plugged into the rear of the Layla box in position "line input" 7 (top position).  Layla box plugs into Layla PCI card in Music (audio station).

8mm Equipment Required

8mm/Super8 sound projector. Elmo Sound ST-800

Super8 take up reel.  An 800' Elmo reel is included in the Elmo kit.

Echo Layla box.

The PC called "Music" to record the audio.

3.5mm stereo male to 5 pin DIN cable to connect the PC (via the Echo Layla) to the projector.  This cable could replace the one that is plugged into the Echo Layla box.

Super8 Equipment Required

Super8 sound projector. Elmo Sound ST-800.

Super8 take up reel.  An 800' Elmo reel is included in the Elmo kit.

Echo Layla box.

The PC called "Music" to record the audio onto.

NOTE:

3.5mm stereo male to male cable cable that should be already connected to the Echo Layla and should be plugged into the projector's Monitor jack!! Note: this is completely opposite from the Yashica Sound P820 used previously. The Aux Out jack will NOT produce the sound from the film's audio track!! Also NOTE: When the cable is not plugged into either the Aux Out or the Monitor Out you will be able to hear the audio from the projector's on board speaker.

Summary

Play the  sound film through the  sound projector and record the output audio onto the PC.  In post the audio files are merged with the video that was transferred using the Retro units.

8mm Steps

  1. Set up the Eumig projector near the Echo Layla box .
  2. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  3. Connect "Music" to the projector using the 5 pin DIN to 3.5mm stereo cable.  There will be a 3.5mm cable already plugged into the Echo Layla box....replace this cable wit the 3.5mm to 5 pin DIN cable.  The 3.5 stereo plug should be plugged into the female 3.5mm/1/4" adaptor plugged into the Layla and the 5 pin DIN plug should be plugged into the DIN socket labeled with a "play" symbol (side of the projector with the knobs and switches, nearest the front of the lens).
  4. Open Sony Vegas on Music and create a new audio track.  There should be a 2 track sample in the RAW folder.
  5. Make sure the audio input is set to line-in..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  6. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  7. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the first position (load).
  8. Just below the lens is a black "push-switch"....push this and hold it.
  9. Feed the film into the front slot above the lens.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then rewind the film.
  10. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch.  You can also let go of the "push-switch" once the film appears at the back of the projector.
  11. Make sure the projector's volume control knob labelled with a Nike swoosh is set around 10:30 o'clock (you may want to test this setting).
  12. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where to record c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  13. Once your satisfied with the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector
  14. Clockwise rotate the run knob to either position to run the film.
  15. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  16. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise).
  17. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  18. Match up the audio to the video.

Super8 Steps

  1. Set up the projector near the Echo Layla box at the Audio Computer Station.
  2. Removal of the Elmo  cover from the projector (pull straight out) exposes the film's path to ensure that it does not get jammed along the way
  3. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  4. Connect the "Audio Computer" to the projector using the 3.5mm male-male stereo cable from the Layla.  The 3.5 stereo plug should already be plugged into the Echo Layla that in turn is connected to the "Audio Computer".  The other end of the 3.5mm plug cable should be plugged into the "MONITOR OUT" jack at the rear of the projector.
  5. Open Sony Vegas 10 on Audio Computer that creates the audio track.  There should be a single track sample generated in the RAW folder created for that specific client.
  6. Make sure the audio input is set to line-in..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  7. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  8. Make sure the projector control labelled "volume" is set around 12 o'clock.
  9. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the third position (run with audio).
  10. Just above the lens is a green "PUSH" button....press this once while threading the film, or until the film appears at the take-up reel.
  11. Feed the film into the front slot on the green thing.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then rewind the film. If it does not come back out while attempting to rewind you may need to manually release the film from the thread path to start again.
  12. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch (the reel should take up the film while rotating clockwise, ie. the film is taken up from the rear of the reel).
  13. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where the file is to record to c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  14. Once your satisfied wit the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector
  15. Clockwise rotate the run knob to the furthest point (play audio).
  16. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  17. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise).
  18. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  19. Match up the audio to the video in Vegas (not the City, the program).

Editing And Syncing Audio - Super8

Assume that when the audio is captured via the projector, the projector is run at the right speed for that particular film and therefore the audio should be correct and not require much if any adjusting.  The adjusting should be done to the video.  You'll find that the video and audio will never match at first.

If the audio requires adjusting then it will need to be adjusted by doing a time stretch:

  • right click the audio track and select the properties.
  • "Audio Event" tab should open.
  • Under the "Time Stretch / pitch shift" update the Method: drop down to "Classic"
  • Check the Pitch change: Lock to stretch box and fill in the ratio with:
    • 1.45 in the Super8 film is 18fps
    • 5.00 if the Super8 film is 24fps (the projector is run at 18fps)

Sometimes the ratio may need to be adjusted a little to fit perfectly.  One can also stretch the video a little to fit too (in addition to setting the ratio first).

Issue Existing With 8mm Audio

We still have a hum in the audio.  I tried moving the "disc"s around and optimized the hum but did not eliminate it.  The projector's power plug has been altered and the Euro plug replaced with a two prong America plug.  This plugs in the transformer.  The original plug had a ground and I thought this may be an issue for the hum and Peter Knight told me that a ground would NOT change the hum.

Film Transfers - Cleaning and Preparing

Overview: Just some notes on preparing and cleaning film before transferring.

How Should the Film Appear On the Rewinders

When one is standing in front of the rewinders, the film should:

  • Be mounted on the right rewind post.
  • The take-up reel (the empty one) should be on the left rewind post (the drive post with the handle)
  • The sprockets should be on the far side of the film.
  • The film should be coming off the top of the reel to the top of the take-up reel
  • The emulsion side (the duller side) of the film should be facing up (we are talking about the black film and not the leader....may need to unwind the film a little to see the actual film)

Basic Rewinder Process

  1. Rewind the film from the “dead” post ot the “active” (on your left).
  2. Clean the film with a lint free cloth with a spot soaked in Solvon.
    1. Pinch the cloth around the film as you move the film
    2. I pinch the film near the “dead” post for two reasons:
      1. i.      The film has a longer period to dry before winding onto the take-up reel
      2. ii.      I can brake the “dead” reel easier if I’m near it (needed if you suddenly have to stop)
  3. When the film has been moved and cleaned....
  4. Move the reels from one post to the other keeping the reels in the same orientation
  5. Now thread the film from the bottom of the right reel to the bottom of the take-up reel (the original reel)
    1. The film between the reels should be the glossy side up
    2. The film on the reels should be the emulsion side up

Situations or Problems:

When cleaning and preparing the film for transferring you can come across a few situations.  Here’s a list of them and the solutions:

  • Upside down and backwards:
    • How can you tell.  The film will come of the reel with the shiny side (non-emulsion side) facing up.
    • Solution:
      • We have the original reel, call it reel A, and the spare take-up reel, call it reel B
      • Mount reel B (spare take-up reel) on the left post
      • Rewind film from the top of the reel A (original reel) to the bottom of the reel B
      • Reel B will now have the dull side (expulsion side) up
      • Remove reel B from the post
        • With the reel oriented such that the sprockets are near you, the film will now be rolling off the right hand side
        • Mount reel B on projector and scan
        • Replace reel B with reel A (the original reel) and rewind the film back onto reel A
  • Splices Only On One Side
    • How can you tell:
      • Examining the film at the splices.
    • Problems this can cause:
      • When scanning 8mm film, the film will tend to get stuck in the track and jam causing the film to bunch up and wrinkle!!!
      • For 16mm film this can cause the film to jerk sharply at the top of the film path and this is turn may cause the projector to stop or the film to break or just to jerk during the scan.
    • Solution:
      • When winding the film through the rewinder keep and eye out for changes in film where a splice has occurred.
      • Generally the splices are at the end of 50 foot films that have been spliced together
      • You can usually feel the splice when cleaning it
  • Film On Reel Backwards
    • How can you tell:
      • Look at a film frame closely. The top of the frame should be toward the head of the film (or the top of the frame should be toward the leader).
    • Problems this can cause:
      • When scanning the film (8mm or 16mm), the film will be scanned upside down and backwards.
    • Solution:
      • Rather than winding the film onto the cleaning reel and back onto the original reel before scanning we need to wind the film (while cleaning it) onto a temporary reel.
      • Then mount the temporary reel on the Sniper unit.
      • Scan the film as you normally would.
      • When the film is on the take-up reel, replace the temporary reel wit the original reel and then rewind the film onto the original reel.
      • The film should now be scanned and the original reel should have the film with the head facing out.

Super8 and 8mm Sound Transfer

Purpose This describes the procedure to transfer audio from Super8 sound film and from 8mm sound film.

Space Connection

A 3.5 stereo cable should be plugged into the rear "line-in" jack (blue)(bottom row of jacks, corner nearest Jason's room) and the female 3.5mm end should be found between Space and Mac.

8mm Equipment Required

8mm/Super8 sound projector. Eumig Mark S 710D.

  • power transformer for 120v 60Hz to 220v 50Hz conversion.

Super8 take up reel.  Sankyo reel is a good one.

The PC called "Space" to record the audio onto.

3.5mm stereo male to 5 pin DIN cable to connect the PC's line-out  (rear) to the projector.

Super8 Equipment Required

Super8 sound projector. Yashica Sound P820.

Super8 take up reel.  Sankyo reel is a good one.

The PC called "Space" to record the audio onto.

3.5mm stereo male to male cable to connect the PC's line-out  (rear) to the projector.

Summary

Play the  sound film through the  sound projector and record the output audio onto the PC.  In post the audio files are merged with the video that was transferred using the Sniper units.

8mm Steps

  1. Set up the Eumig projector.
  2. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  3. Connect "Space" to the projector using the 5 pin DIN to 3.5mm stereo cable.  The 3.5 stereo plug should be plugged into the female 3.5mm plug and the 5 pin DIN plug should be plugged into the DIN socket labeled with a "play" symbol (side of the projector with the knobs and switches, nearest the front of the lens).
  4. Open Sony Vegas on Space and create a new audio track.
  5. Make sure the audio input is set to line-in..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  6. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  7. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the first position (load).
  8. Just below the lens is a black "push-switch"....push this and hold it.
  9. Feed the film into the front slot above the lens.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then rewind the film.
  10. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch.  You can also let go of the "push-switch" once the film appears at the back of the projector.
  11. Make sure the projector's volume control knob labelled with a Nike swoosh is set around 10:30 o'clock (you may want to test this setting).
  12. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where to record c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  13. Once your satisfied with the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector
  14. Clockwise rotate the run knob to either position to run the film.
  15. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  16. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise).
  17. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  18. Match up the audio to the video.

Super8 Steps

  1. Set up the projector.
  2. Remove Yashica cover off the projector (pull straight out) so that one can see the film's path
  3. Mount the take up reel on the projector
  4. Connect "Space" to the projector using the 3.5mm male-male stereo cable.  The 3.5 stereo plug should be plugged into the female 3.5mm plug coming from "Space" and the other 3.5mm plug should be plugged into the "MONO AUX-OUT" jack at the back of the projector.
  5. Open Sony Vegas on Space and create a new audio track.
  6. Make sure the audio input is set to line-in..... a) Record input: "Line-in VIA High Definition Au (Default)" b) .... this is set  under options / preferences / audio device (tab) / Default audio recording device (field) c) If this is not set correctly on the track info, then you may have to change it under the preferences and you may have to delete and recreate the audio track to set it correctly. d) If you are not getting the audio...you may have to check the settings in VIA HD Audio Deck (found in icon tray) to make sure that the "line-in" is set correctly.
  7. Mount the film on the projector's long arm.
  8. Make sure the projector control labelled "volume" is set around 12 o'clock.
  9. Clockwise rotate the projector's run switch to the first position (load).
  10. Just above the lense is a "PUSH" button on a white thing....push this once (this should stay down).
  11. Feed the film into the front slot on the white thing.  Once it catches it should start feeding through the film pathway.  Watch the film and make sure it does not jam or bunch up in the pathway.  IMMEDIATELY turn knob to OFF if jam occurs and then rewind the film.
  12. When the film reaches the take-up reel it may catch nicely or you may have to stop the film and manually make it catch.
  13. Test if Vegas is getting the audio by.... a) creating an audio track b) clicking the "arm for record" (in the track header info) and setting up where to record c) running the projector and watching for the audio bars in Vegas to react
  14. Once your satisfied wit the audio levels in Vegas.... a) Rewind projector to start b) click the "record" button in Vegas c) start the projector
  15. Clockwise rotate the run knob to the furthest point (play audio).
  16. When the film is done, hit the "stop" on Sony Vegas, and rotate the projector's run knob to the "off" position.
  17. Thread the film back into the original reel and rotate the run knob to reverse (first position - counter clockwise).
  18. Repeat the above for all the films.  It helps if the audio file numbering matches the film video numbering.
  19. Match up the audio to the video.

Editing And Syncing Audio - Super8

Found that the video and audio are never captured at the same speed and therefore the video and audio tracks will never match in edit.  The audio needs to be adjusted by doing a time stretch:

  • right click the audio track and select the properties.
  • "Audio Event" tab should open.
  • Under the "Time Stretch / pitch shift" update the Method: drop down to "Classic"
  • Check the Pitch change: Lock to stretch box and fill in the ratio with 1.45

Sometimes the ratio may need to be adjusted a little to fit perfectly.  One can also stretch the video a little to fit too (in addition to setting the ratio first).

Issue Existing With 8mm Audio

We still have a hum in the audio.  I tried moving the "disc"s around and optimized the hum but did not eliminate it.  The projector's power plug has been altered and the Euro plug replaced with a two prong America plug.  This plugs in the transformer.  The original plug had a ground and I thought this may be an issue for the hum and Peter Knight told me that a ground would NOT change the hum.

Process 8mm or 16mm Film

Purpose: This document describes how we process film.  The process includes the following stages:

  • Identify and catalog the film.
  • Make minor repairs.
  • Clean the film.
  • Scan the film.
  • Render the film into the final format.

Before we start any film transfer we do three main things, identify and catalog the film, inspect the physical shape of the film, and clean the film.

Identify and Catalog

Before we catalog the film, we need to make sure the customer information has been entered into the client log, www.lifetimeheritagefilms.com/clients/.  In particular we need at least the name of the client and the email address.  The email address is required if the film process is deluxe.

In the film catalog file, www.film2hd.com/myfilm/ we fill in the boxes in three steps:

  1. Initial information such as the customer name, film id number, and various physical film identification stuff.
  2. While scanning the film, or after scanning the film, we can add "tags" that identify the content of the film for future searching of our database.
  3. After rendering the film we can fill in details such as the length, fps, etc

First let's identify the film:

  1. size of reel (check diameter of reel with film size table) <insert link>
  2. type of film a) Regular 8mm (Reg8) - film is 8mm wide with large sprocket holes on one side b) Super 8mm (Super8) - film is 8mm wide with smaller sprocket holes on one side c) Super 8mm (Super8) sound - film is same as silent Super8 but on the edge opposite the sprockets you will find a very narrow magnetic audio strip d) 16mm silent - film is 16mm wide and has sprocket holes on both edges of the film e) 16mm sound - film is 16mm wide and has sprocket holes on one edge and a optical sound track on the other edge
  3. any identifying marks on the container such as year, title, what is on the film

Inspect Film

Physically inspect the film for:

  1. Mold.  If mold is found <link to process to deal with mold>
  2. Check to make sure film is on the reel correctly (ie. backwards, upside down, etc) - film orientation a) The leader should have the shiny surface up (this may have dull surface up and it really does not matter) b) the film should have the emulsion surface up c) film frame will have the top of the frame nearest the leader d) mount the reel on the right rewinder (dead post) e) the sprockets must be on the far edge (away from you) f) the film will come off the reel at the top and toward the takeup reel
  3. If no leader, add one.
  4. Check to make sure the leader is long enough: a) 8mm film - 2 feet b) 16mm film - 3 feet
  5. Trim end of 8mm leader if needed - no sharp corners on the edges at the end

Film Is Not On The Reel Correctly - Fixes

Problem: The film head is okay (top of frame is nearest the leader or start of film), but the non-emulsion side is up.

Solution: Mount the reel as per normal except that the leader will be coming off the bottom of the reel.  Take the leader and feed it to the top of the take-up reel.  Then wind the film as normal and rewind as normal.

Problem: The film is backwards on the reel.  The bottom of the frame is nearest the leader (or start of film).

Solution: Wind the film from the original reel to the take-up reel and DO NOT REWIND.  Take the take-up reel and mount it on the projector.  After scanning the film, remove the take-up reel and replace it wit the original reel.  Now rewind the film onto the original reel.

Clean Film

Clean the films on the rewinders using the Solvon film cleaner (in the little brown glass Edwal film cleaner bottles):

  1. Mount the customers reel on the right rewinder and the takeup reel on the left
  2. Thread the film from top to top of the reels
  3. Grab a film cleaning cloth and the Solvon
  4. Open the Solvon, put the cloth on the opening and tip the can until you feel the liquid on the cloth
  5. Close the Solvon cap ASAP
  6. Where the liquid is on the cloth, pinch the film in the cloth near the left winder
  7. Holding the winder handle, slide the cloth to the right reel
  8. keep the cloth pinching the film near the right reel and wind the film onto the left reel
  9. wind film onto takeup reel
  10. Switch the reels from one winder shaft to the other, keeping the reels in the same orientation
  11. Now thread the right reel to the left reel (customer reel), this time the film should go from the bottom to the bottom of the reels
  12. If the film appeared really dirty on the first pass I sometimes will re-clean the film when rewinding the film back onto the customer's reel

Tips

  • Make sure that the cap on the Solvon is closed ASAP because the Solvon evaporates quickly.
  • On large reels I sometimes stop the rewind and check the cloth to see how dirty the film is.  If dirty I switch to a clean location and put more Solvon on the cloth.

Scanning Film

  1. Place machine in "stop" (16mm) or "rewind" (8mm)
  2. Clean machine a) For 8mm machine

    • take cover off film track and spray both cover and track with canned air
    • wipe dust off machine with a cloth

    b) For 16mm machine

    • remove and clean film gate with canned air
    • spray canned air of film track
    • clean audio drum with rubbing alcohol
    • wipe dust off machine with a cloth
  3. Mount the reel.  For the 8mm machine you may have to place or remove the Super8 adapter on the reel axle depending on the film reel hole.
  4. Thread the machine with film a)For 8mm

    • Thread thru the top of the film track and keep feeding until the film comes out of the back end of the film track,
    • Make sure the start of the film is hooked under the film post just below the front reel.
    • Hook the film onto the take-up reel and manually wind the film around the reel a couple of times

    b) For 16mm

    • Thread the film thru the film wheels
    • Feed the film into the slot on the take-up reel and manually wind the film around the reel a couple of times
    • Make sure that there is a fingers spaces between the first wheel wheel and the film
    • Keep the finger in the loop above the first white wheel and rotate the start switch to 2 o'clock
    • Remove the finger from the loop and pull the film down a little to increase the loop below the gate
    • Move the switch to the play position
    • There should be a good loop above the gate and below the gate
  5. Run (use the "Motor" switch) the machine for a few seconds to settle in the film.
  6. For the 16mm machine, make sure the "silent or sound" toggle is set for the appropriate film.
  7. Also, make sure the switch box behind Flag's monitor is set to the correct machine.

The Software - "CineCap Velocity HD"

Start up the software on Flag captures the video feed from the scanner.

  1. Make sure that Flag has enough space on the "N" drive...should have at least 200GB or more free.
  2. Start up the software.
  3. Check the "settings" tab to make sure that everything is set correctly.  Items to check are:
    • Drive to Capture...should be N
    • Manual Sync .... generally should be unchecked.  (used to be that if the 16mm film was bigger than 1200 ft, it had to be checked and set to -5...not sure if this is the case with the new software).
    • SD progressive .... only check if planning to render to SD progressive
    • Process all film as negative ..... check if needed
    • Lossless High Def ....  generally not checked...if checked,this gains about 5% quality and 4X the file size.
    • High Def Progressive .... usually checked.
  4. Switch to the "Capture" tab and the image should be displayed from the scanner
  5. Enter the correct "Film Type" and the full "Customer" name (ie. john_smith)
  6. Usually the "Auto-name" boxed is checked....sometimes not checked if you want to override the naming.
  7. Before "Start" is pushed, the filename number is the next number...after the "Start" is pushed it changes to the next number (not the current number).  Move the cursor onto the "Start" button.
  8. Start the scanner and push the software's "Start" button before the film starts to show real images.
  9. When the film is done scanning or approaches the end of the real images
    • Click the software's "Stop" button.
    • Then click the "keep" button.
    • Make sure the film has cleared the film track (for 8mm this usually requires a little manual push on the take-up reel)
    • Toggle the "motor" switch to off.
  10. Rewind the film
    • Thread the end of the film into the customer's reel.
    • Wind film manually for a few turns
    • Switch the scanner to "Rewind"
    • Toggle the "Motor" switch on
    • Once the film has rewound, toggle the "Motor" switch off
  11. Remove customer's reel from scanner and put safely away.

Tips

  • Generally all toggle switches on the scanners should be up when the unit is running.

Render/Pulldown via CineCap Velocity HD

Go the "Speed Change" tab and set up the scanned film to be processed.