Importing Analog Video via iMovie

I need to import content from old VHS and 3/4" tapes. Up to a year ago, iMovie worked just fine for that. Now, the import stops randomly after 15-30 seconds. The screen says "recording" but when the file is done, there are only the first few seconds, not the 30 or 60 minutes I need.

I tried using QuickTime; it works fine on the video but there are are no settings to adjust the audio to 29.97 FPS which means the audio will be out of sync within a few minutes

iMac 27″ 5K, macOS 13.7

Posted on Oct 20, 2024 10:22 AM

2 replies

Rich839

Level 8

47,622 points

Oct 20, 2024 10:54 AM in response to IW_Austin

Hi,

Importing VHS into iMovie can be hit or miss.

Put your QuickTimePlayer video into iMovie. Detach the audio (Modify/Detach Audio). Then adjust the sync. Split the audio into segments as necessary and adjust each segment.

The way I have adjusted sync is to first expand the timeline all the way out with the slider next to the Settings button above and to the right of the timeline. Then select the video clip and do a Modify/Detach Clip. Control-click on the detached audio clip. In the menu that pops up, select Show Speed Editor. That will cause a speed adjustment handle to appear in the upper right hand corner of the clip. Slide it back and forth slightly to adjust the speed that you need to make the audio sync with the video. The speed adjustment is so small that you shouldn't even notice any change in pitch.

-- Rich

IW_Austin Author

Level 1

4 points

Oct 20, 2024 11:22 AM in response to Rich839

Brilliant (if it works). I had not even thought of speed adjustment, which is very easy in Premier.

I'll try that; thanks.

Ingrid

Importing Analog Video via iMovie