When you get the tapes put on DVDs make sure they are put in the DV format so you can edit then on your computer. Othwise you will have to get Quick Time Pro ($30) and convert each one before you can edit it in iMovie.
Or have then make two copies of everything, one in DV the other in MPEG 2 (so you can watch the stuff with a DVD player).
Do you know anyone who has a video card with video input, such as the Radeon All in Wonder? It's really easy to rip stuff from standard video sources (S-video, RCA/SCART, TV aerial) to MPEG 2. Plenty of hard disk space (several GB) is required. Another recommendation is that you try to minimise noise: remove non essential cards, check the manuals, etc...
Unfortunately, the Radeon AiW is PC only, but can be cheap for older models (my original Radeon AiW cost me £50).
Something that you may find is the simple fact that cheap analog video I/O devices leave a lot to be desired. If I were you I'd get a decent card and sell it on eBay once you're done with it.
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Or have then make two copies of everything, one in DV the other in MPEG 2 (so you can watch the stuff with a DVD player).
This will save you time and hassle.
Do you know anyone who has a video card with video input, such as the Radeon All in Wonder? It's really easy to rip stuff from standard video sources (S-video, RCA/SCART, TV aerial) to MPEG 2. Plenty of hard disk space (several GB) is required. Another recommendation is that you try to minimise noise: remove non essential cards, check the manuals, etc...
Unfortunately, the Radeon AiW is PC only, but can be cheap for older models (my original Radeon AiW cost me £50).