Products and Services
What will I receive back when I purchase a reel-to-reel CD set?
Excellent question! In short, you’ll get back your original reels with all the CDs made from them. We record every reel from start to finish to ensure we capture every second of your audio, and unless that reel is blank, we make sure every second of
Which storage option is best?
We offer three different options: thumb drive, DVD/CD set, and digital download. Which one should you choose?. Each option has its own advantages! Ultimately, you're going to get the same quality with each product. Here are some of the pros of each o
I need my digital download link. How do I get it?
Your digital download link will be stored on the order tracking page here. Just use your order number and email address to access it. You'll see an update that says "Uploaded to Cloud." Click that link!. If a link hasn't been uploaded yet or you don'
Can you transfer my personal DVD or mini DVD to a digital file?
While we would love to help you duplicate, copy, or transfer your personal DVDs or mini DVDs, at this time we can only convert non-digital media. Keep an eye on our website, though! In an effort to serve our customers better, we are always adding new
How can I Live Chat with Southtree?
Thanks for asking!. Our Customer Support team would be happy to chat with you online! We have live chat services Monday–Friday, 8 AM–Midnight EST, and Saturday–Sunday, 9 AM–6 PM EST. You can always search for an article relevant to your concerns. If
Why is there blue screen on my files?
Great question!. When we convert your items, we make sure to convert them from the very beginning to the very end. This means that if there is blank space on the originals, that will show up on the digital copies as well. These blank spaces show up o
Can you convert my film reels?
Yes!. We can covert your Regular 8mm, Super 8mm, Regular 16mm, and Super 16mm film. Our process delivers wonderful transfers, allowing you to see every detail of the original film. Our process digitizes film frame-by-frame with special conversion equ
Why is there extra blank footage on my digital files?
Excellent question!. It is very important to us that we capture every last second of your memories, so we record every tape from start to finish, from the very first second to the very last. Some people record footage for the entire tape, and some fo
Can you color correct my film?
Unfortunately, no. Our process is a straight 1 to 1 transfer, so the condition of your original items will dictate the quality of the finalized product. However, if you choose our digital files option, there are many great video editing programs that
Why does my film jump around?
Great question!. This is primarily caused by small warping in the film. Over time, humidity changes can warp the film, giving it a small curve. That curve makes it difficult to track properly through our machines, resulting in some of the jumpiness t
Why does my tape play fine in my player, but my DVD looks lower quality?
We are sorry to hear that!. While this issue is very rare, we do see it from time to time, primarily on VHS tapes that were recorded in a VCR. As a general rule, the best player for a tape is the player it was originally recorded in. Whether it's a V
My USB thumb drive keeps asking to be formatted every time I plug it in. What should I do?
We can help with that!. First, do not format your USB thumb drive. This will erase the contents of the drive. Second, check your computer's operating system to make sure your computer is compatible with our USB/USB-C thumb drives. Our thumb drives a
How can I edit my audio digital files?
Great question!. Editing your audio is a great way to use your digital files to create something more. There are several different programs you can use. Chances are good that you already have one installed on your computer. The programs listed below
What can I do with my digital files, and how do I edit them?
Great question!. Sadly, not all of the things we recorded back in the day are worth rewatching. The video footage you shot of your daughter's first ballet recital is absolutely precious, tear jerking, and something you'll never forget. But, the two h
Why can't I change the names of my files in Google Drive?
To perform any kinds of edits or changes to your digital files, they must first be downloaded to your computer. To download your files from Google Drive, follow these steps:. Once downloaded, we also highly recommend backing up your digital files. Th
What are the weird lines at the bottom of my tape?
That’s a great question! They are called Overscan Lines and they're related to Title Safe. Back in the heyday of analog media, not all of the information recorded on a tape ended up being viewable on your TV. Title Safe is one of three areas of older
Can you combine my tapes onto a single DVD?
That’s a great question!. We have always found that to ensure the best quality transfer, one tape per DVD is the best bet, just to make sure everything fits properly. In addition, we also play through every tape in its entirety to make sure that ever
My digital files look jumpy or choppy when I play them back in Quicktime. What should I do?
Great question!. Don't panic! Your tapes and files are just fine. Quicktime has a lot of bugs that can result in choppy or jumpy video playback. While the video formats we use are very standard, some Mac computers may have issues with video playback.
Why won’t my digital files work in iMovie?
Great question!. There are some versions of iMovie that are compatible with MP4 files and some that are not. Newer versions of iMovie have added support for working with MP4 files, specifically with the particular video codecs we use to encode your d
What is optical sound, and can you capture it from my 8mm or 16mm film reels?
That's an excellent question!. Sound on film is rare. Optical sound on film is the rarest of them all — a relic of a bygone era that was niche in its own time. Unfortunately, it is not something we are currently able to process. Optical sound for 8mm
What is tracking?
In the simplest definition, tracking helps fine tune your tape's speed during playback. Tracking on your tape is important because it helps ensure that it plays safely and smoothly. Good tracking depends precisely on the distance between certain comp
Do you offer bulk pricing?
Southtree is the industry leader in digitally preserving analog media, with over a decade of experience. We've been trusted by countless families, museums, governments and universities to digitally preserve their analog media. Our pricing is extremel
How do I play my DVDs/CDs?
Our DVDs are standard, and work in any DVD player. While it is possible that our DVDs will work on Blu-ray players (if those players are formatted to play DVDs), gaming consoles, or DVD-capable computers, it is not universal and depends on the speci
What are the film reel sizes you accept?
Film reels come in a range of sizes, but the most common are 3", 5", and 7". The largest film reel we can digitize is 10.5" in diameter. We digitize every consumer format of film created, including 8mm, Super8, 16mm, and Super16. Film pricing stays t
Can I add a USB thumb drive to my order?
Have you already placed your order but changed your mind?. No worries! Just reach out to our Customer Support Team at [email protected]. Include your order number in the subject line, and let them know you'd like to add a thumb drive. We will take i
Can I submit multiple promo codes on a single order?
Unfortunately, no.We are not able to combine promo codes -- there's a limit of one per order. This includes voucher codes such as Groupons.However, giving the gift of Southtree is a great idea! If you have multiple codes and only need one, we would d
Can you scan old newspaper or yearbook articles?
Unfortunately, no. We are unable to scan old newspaper clippings, yearbook articles, birthday cards, diplomas, or any non-photo artifact. However, keep an eye on our website! In order to serve our customers better, we are continually updating the pro
I would like to change or add items to my order. What should I do?
If you have not shipped your order to us yet, we can definitely help with that!Simply contact our Customer Support Team by email at [email protected]. Or, if you'd prefer to speak to a representative, call us at (800) 656-6032.If you have already sh
Do you transfer mini audio cassettes?
Absolutely!We convert the following audio formats:. We can convert your mini audio cassettes to thumb drive, digital download through Google Drive, or CDs you can listen to on your CD player. If you opt for a USB thumb drive or digital download, we p
Can you fix the tracking on tapes?
Let's face it, tapes can degrade over time. The magnetic media within tapes will gradually lose their charge in a process called remanence decay. But this is just one of the many ways VHS tapes can fade over time, causing issue with their tracking ab
Can you convert my videotapes?
Yes! We convert all consumer format tapes!Here's a full list of formats that we digitize. If you don't know exactly what you have, don't worry! Chances are we've got you covered.Here's a list of what we currently digitize:. Each tape is converted to
I have a complaint. Who can I talk to?
We are here to help!. Simply contact our Customer Support Team by email via [email protected] or by phone at (800) 656-6032. Our phone support hours are 9am to 5pm EST from Monday to Friday. Just let us know your order number and a brief description
Can I mix and match my formats and add ons?
Traditional Southtree boxes are set up for a single type of media (tapes, film, audio, or photos). You can certainly mix different item types within the same format. For example, if you select the 'Tapes' box you can include VHS tapes, 8mm tapes, and
Do you convert floppy discs to digital?
Unfortunately, no.At this time, we are unable to process this type of media format.However, keep an eye on our website! In order to serve our customers better, we are continually updating the products and services we offer. While we may not be able t
Can you convert beta tapes?
Yes, we can convert your Betamax tapes to thumb drive, DVD, or digital download through Google Drive!Please note: we do not convert Betacam or BetaSP tapes at this time.
Did you receive my order?
Once your order is received in our facility, we will send an email notification immediately to let you know it has been received. As your order moves through our plant, we will send you emails every step of the way, keeping you updated at every turn.
Can you ship to an APO or FPO?
Unfortunately, we are unable to ship to Army, Air Force, or Fleet Post Offices at this time. This is something we are still working on. However, we are always making changes and updating where we ship. Please keep an eye out on our website for future
I moved. How do I update my shipping address?
Moving can be stressful, but changing your mailing address isn't!Simply contact our Customer Support Team by email at [email protected]. Let us know your order number and your new address. We'll get the information updated for your order in a flash!
What are all these output formats I can select for my order?
From your daughter’s first steps to her first science fair, from the infamous burnt-turkey Thanksgiving of ‘88 (you’re not pointing fingers) to the secret recording of your brother’s Elvis impersonation in full jumpsuit regalia, your family history i
Can I get copies or duplicates of my DVDs/CDs?
Yes!If you have not yet sent in your items for digitization, please contact Customer Service to add additional copies to your order. Multiple DVD/CD Sets will provide extra copies of each item you send in. This is a great option if you want to give c
What do I do if my voucher code has expired?
If your voucher has passed its expiration date, it is still valid for the amount paid to purchase it. You may still use the redemption code to apply that value to your order!. If you are experiencing issues with your voucher code, we'd love to assist
Do you restore old photos?
Unfortunately, no.Restoring old or damaged photos is not a service that we offer at this time.However, once your photo files are downloaded to your computer, you can easily drag and drop to reorganize, create folders, and rename the individual images
How should I package my order for shipment?
Use our Southtree shipping box. When it comes to sealing the box, more tape is better than less. You really want to make sure everything stays inside during transit. Covering any gaps created by the flaps of the box with tape is a great way to ensure
What kind of packaging should I use to ship my order?
Use our Southtree shipping box! When it comes to sealing the box, more tape is better than less. You really want to make sure everything stays inside during transit. Covering any gaps created by the flaps of the box with tape is a great way to ensure
How do I enter my voucher code?
Entering your voucher code is easy!. Voucher codes are valid for any of our conversion services up to the dollar amount they are worth. To use your voucher code, first, choose what format you want to digitize. Second, count how many of that format yo
What type of turn around time can I expect?
Standard processing time is estimated at 4-6 weeks once your order arrives at our processing facility.We believe in quality, so we do everything by hand and we won’t compromise. We want to ensure the best quality digitizing experience.Certain special
What do I do if I see an unauthorized charge to my credit card?
We are very sorry. An unauthorized charge is never something we intend, and we want to help you get it sorted out right away.If there is a charge to your card that you did not authorize, please contact our Customer Support team by email at info@south
Do you convert commercial material?
Yes! If you own a legal copy, we can create one digital backup of your footage on thumb drive, DVD, or digital download through Google Drive.To get started on your order, visit southtree.com.
What is your process to convert film? What is the quality like?
We are very proud of our film digitization process! We think it's the best way to create high quality videos, minimizing some of the jumpy, flickery effects we found common in other film transfers. We use a special frame-by-frame scanning technique t
How do I talk to someone?
We're here to help!Do you have a question but can't find the answer in our Help Center? If you prefer to speak to a representative, we offer friendly phone support at (800) 656-6032. Our phone support hours are 9am to 5pm EST from Monday to Friday. C
How do I apply a coupon to my order?
Applying a coupon to your order is easy!. Coupon codes are valid toward any of our services, up to the dollar amount they are worth. First, choose what you want to digitize. Second, count how many items you have and select the right bundle for your n
How do I log in to the Cloud to watch my videos online?
At Southtree, we love to innovate. Our Southtree Cloud™ storage service was built because so many customers were asking us for a solution to more securely store and more easily access their home movies online.Logging in is super easy!First, log into
What do I do if my Groupon voucher code has expired?
Your Groupon is still valid for the paid value. If you are experiencing issues with your Groupon code, we'd love to assist you. Just email our Customer Support Team at [email protected]. Be sure to include a copy or photo of your voucher itself (inc
What is your location?
We are located in Chattanooga, TN. All work is done in-house at our facility. We never outsource work to any other company or location.
Are you able to transfer adult material?
No.We are unable to transfer violent, graphic or sexually explicit content from any materials, including audio and videotapes, film reels, photos, negatives, or slides.
How many film reels fit on a DVD?
The maximum amount of film footage we include on a DVD is approximately 2 hours, or about 1200 feet of film.If you want to be able to edit your film, purchasing a thumb drive or digital download with your order will provide .mp4 files that you can ma
What is the scan resolution of your photos?
That's an excellent question! Resolution for Photo digital files is measured in DPI, or Dots Per Inch. We use several different processes to scan your photos, depending on what scanning method is best, and minimum DPI standards they must meet:. Click
How can I track my order?
You can always check the status of your order by visiting our order tracking page. Simply enter the order number found on your barcodes (not the "T" number) and email address! You will be able to see real time updates on where you order is in product
What is your phone number?
We would love to talk to you!Do you have a question but can't find the answer in our Help Center? If you prefer to speak to a representative, we offer limited phone support at (800) 656-6032. Our phone support hours are 9am to 5pm EST from Monday to
Do you offer donations to organizations?
Yes!We love supporting great causes and people making a positive impact in the world.If you'd like us to consider supporting your organization, please visit this link and fill out our request form.If it sounds like a good fit, someone will reach out
How do I cancel my Cloud Service?
We are sad to see you go! Our Southtree Cloud™ service was built because so many customers were asking us for a solution to store and access their home movies online easily and securely. We've built in some amazing features and plan to roll out many
Can I combine different formats in my order?
Certainly!You can customize your order in any way to suit your individual needs.We convert almost all consumer formats for videotapes, photos, film reels, and audio. If you bought it from a big box store, odds are we can digitize it!Here's a full lis
Do you convert vinyl records?
Unfortunately, no.At this time, we are only able to convert the following audio formats:. However, keep an eye on our website! In order to serve our customers better, we are continually updating the products and services we offer. While we may not be
Will my audio tracks be separated?
No, we do not offer track separation.To achieve the best quality and consistency, we offer a one-to-one transfer for audio cassette tapes. Each side of the tape is carefully recorded from beginning to end in one take to ensure we never miss a beat. T
Do you convert audio reel-to-reel?
Absolutely!We convert the following audio formats:. We can convert audio reel-to-reels to CDs, which you can listen to using any CD player, and even upload to your computer. Or, if you opt for a USB thumb drive or digital download, we provide high qu
Do you transfer micro audio cassettes?
Absolutely!We convert the following audio formats:. We can convert your micro audio cassettes to thumb drive, digital download through Google Drive, or CDs you can use with any CD player. If you opt for a USB thumb drive or digital download, we provi
What format are audio cassettes converted to?
We can convert your audio cassettes to a thumb drive, digital download through Google Drive, or CDs you can use with any CD player. If you opt for a thumb drive or digital download, we provide high quality .WAV files for you to listen to on any devic
Can you convert my audio format?
Yes!We convert several types of consumer format audio to thumb drive, digital download through Google Drive, or CD.We convert the following audio formats:. For Reel-to-Reel Audio, we can do both 2 Track and 4 Track tape.We are currently not able to p
Do you convert photos to CD?
We convert many different kinds of consumer format photos!We convert the following photo formats:. Through our delicate scanning process, we will convert your slides to digital JPEG format and save them to a photo disc or USB thumb drive.The photo di
Will you keep my photos in chronological order?
We are excited to help you preserve your photos!. We use a variety of scanners and equipment for each order, to ensure the highest quality conversion for your photos, slides, and negatives. Some photos tend to be more finicky than others and may requ
Do you have bulk pricing for photos?
We do!. The Caboodle is a bulk pricing option for up to 1,000 images. This can be a combination of photos, slides, or negatives. The Caboodle is priced at $549.95. If you're ready to order, head on over to https://southtree.com/order.
Can you convert my 35mm negatives?
Yes! We're able to digitally scan your 35mm negatives and create digital JPEG images of your photos!We can process the following photo formats:. All of our negatives are scanned at 2400 DPI, or approximately 12 Megapixels. This captures all of the de
Can I edit my photos once I receive them back?
Yes!If you select the digital download or thumb drive, you will be able to download your images to your computer for editing, storing, or sharing. There are many excellent programs out there to edit and share your photos!
What is the photo resolution?
Resolution for Photo digital files is measured in DPI, or Dots Per Inch. The inch measurement comes from the size of your original media. We use several different processes to scan your photos, depending on what scanning method is best, and minimum D
Will you clean my photos before scanning them?
We do not offer an extensive cleaning of images sent in to be digitized. We recommend cleaning them before you send your order to us.
Do I need to take photos out of the albums?
Yes! We cannot process photos if we receive them in photo albums.Because of the variety of equipment needed to digitize your images, we recommend sending your images loose-leaf. This will help ensure that you receive the highest quality scan from you
How should I organize my photos?
When sending in your photos, it's best to stack them neatly together, in groups of 25 looseleaf photos, in sealed Ziploc bags. This will minimize any moisture that might affect them during transport.Once we begin digitizing your photos, keep in mind
Can you convert my photos? Is it a high quality transfer?
Yes! We convert consumer photo prints up to 8.5" x 11", 35mm and 126 slides, and 35mm negatives; 25 photos, slides, or frames counts as one item. Your photos will be scanned so you can see every detail of the original photo. We deliver your photos in
Can you capture sound from my 8mm, super 8, or 16mm film reels?
The majority of film is inherently silent. Anyone remember The Artist starring Jean Dujardin and Bérénice Bejo? In some instances, 8mm, Super8, and 16mm film may contain a magnetic sound strip, right on the edge of the film. It's a light brown color,
Can each reel go on its own DVD?
Unfortunately, we do not offer conversion of reels onto separate DVDs. The maximum amount of footage we place on one DVD is 2 hours, or about 1200 feet of film.If you are wanting the ability to edit your film, we recommend purchasing a thumb drive or
How should I organize my film reels?
If you have selected to have your films converted to DVD, we recommend barcoding them in the order in which you'd like them to appear on the disc. If you have selected the thumb drive or digital download, each film will be converted to its own digita
Will you edit, improve, enchance, or restore my items?
Unfortunately, no. That is not something we offer at this time. While our process delivers wonderful transfers, preserving the integrity of what is present on the original items, the condition of your original media will determine the quality of the
Can you convert my 8mm, 9.5mm, or 16mm film?
We can convert your old home movie film reels to thumb drive, digital download through Google Drive, or DVD.We currently digitize the following formats:. At this time we do not convert Regular 9.5mmm Super 9.5mm, or 35mm film.
Will I get DVDs and CDs when I add a thumb drive?
No. If you only purchase a thumb drive, you will not receive DVDs or CDs. In order to receive both, you'll need to add both the DVD/CD Set and thumb drive to your order.
Are you able to transfer explicit material?
No.We are unable to transfer graphic or sexually explicit content from any materials including videotapes, film reels, photos, negatives, and slides.
How much does it cost to convert tapes?
Great question!. Tape conversion is $15 per tape, plus the cost of the outputs you want to receive back. The price below includes cost of one output (i.e. a thumb drive, a digital download, or a DVD/CD set). Tape pricing stays the same, regardless of
Do you rewind tapes?
Don't worry if your tapes aren't rewound!We want to make sure each tape is transferred in its entirety, so we always rewind each tape before the transfer. This process happens when our team diligently inspects your tapes.
How do I cancel my order?
We are here to help! Send a brief email to [email protected] explaining why you'd like to cancel, and one of our agents will get back to you within 1–2 business days. If you would prefer to speak to a representative, call us at (800) 656-6032. Our p
Do you ship to Canada?
Currently, Southtree only offers services to the continental US.
Do you transfer Mini DVDs to standard DVDs?
Unfortunately, at this time, we are unable to transfer Mini DVDs to standard DVDs.However, we do currently convert:. Keep an eye on our website! In order to serve our customers better, we are continually updating the products and services we offer. W
Will my DVD play in my Blu-ray player?
While it is possible that our DVDs will work on Blu-ray players (if those players are formatted to play DVDs), it is not universal and depends on the specifics of the functionality of the system or brand you are using.
What if my tape is over 2 hours?
No worries — we've got you covered!Each tape is converted to its own DVD or digital file. Some longer tapes may require multiple discs or digital files. You can learn more about this here.
Do the DVDs include chapters or title screens?
Your DVDs will include automatic chapter markers at 10-minute intervals. This is for quick scanning through your content. We do not provide custom chapter markers or title screens. Your DVD will play back the same as your original tape.
Can you convert foreign tapes?
Yes!We can convert your foreign (PAL or SECAM) videos to US (NTSC) DVDs. Foreign conversions are included in the prices of your conversions! If you are sending PAL or SECAM tapes, please be sure to mark those tapes with a sticky note so our team know