Ok fedi! Our #library #makerspace got gifted a Kodak Reels Film Digitizer by a very kind patron. So on the one hand YAYYY because we can increase the number of formats for our #digitization service. On the other hand BOOOO because this thing and all similar models supposedly suck? What I've read is that:
a) frames can sometimes be out of focus,
b) what should be rollers do not actually roll,
c) it captures frame-by-frame and then saves the resulting mp4 in a non-original framerate,
d) the resolution/color range/contrast/other quality metrics are all bad,
e) it's slowwwwww,
f) splicing tape jams it,
g) it can't do sound,
h) there's no officially obtainable firmware updates to improve any of the above.
However, I've also read that GOOD 8mm reel digitization setups jump you up into the ≥ $50,000 range. Plus we already have this thing now.
I've read that there are mods/hacks available for this device, are those recommended? Presumably some kind of like VHS-decode mod could add sound capture, but tbh that project is wayyyyyyyyyyy over my head.