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Frequently Asked Questions

General transfer FAQ

What do I get back after digitizing?

Straight answer from RVA Rewind, a local media digitizing studio in Richmond, Virginia. We help with Video tapes, film reels, photos/slides/negatives, audio media, and many common data disks.

You get your original media back plus digital files. Delivery options typically include a USB thumb drive and/or a secure digital download, depending on what you choose for the project.

Files are organized so you can play them on modern computers and devices:

• Video and film — commonly delivered as digital movie files

• Photos — image files suitable for viewing, sharing, and printing

• Audio — digital audio files for phones, computers, and media players

• Data disks — recovered files as stored on the media, on modern delivery media

We can discuss preferred formats when you place the order. Your originals are returned carefully packed with the digital deliverables when the job is complete. Many customers keep both: digital copies for everyday access and originals stored safely as the physical archive.

Not sure USB vs download? Ask when you contact us—we will match delivery to your devices and how you plan to share files with family.

How this works at RVA Rewind

Most projects mix formats—a box of VHS next to envelopes of photos and a few cassettes. We help you prioritize, estimate, and leave with files you can open on modern devices while keeping the originals safe.

  1. Tell us what you have (or ship/drop off a mixed box with a simple inventory).
  2. We digitize each format with the right equipment and workflow.
  3. You receive digital files and your original media back.

Media we handle in this category

Video tapes, film reels, photos/slides/negatives, audio media, and many common data disks.

Next steps

Browse all services, request a free estimate, or jump into a category FAQ for format-specific details.

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Related General questions

More answers about media digitizing from the same FAQ category.

How does the digitizing process work?
RVA Rewind makes the process simple for families and businesses in Richmond and across the U.S. 1. Contact us. Call or use our contact form and tell us what media you have. 2. Drop…
What media formats can RVA Rewind digitize?
We digitize a wide range of analog and optical media at our Richmond, Virginia shop. You can mix and match formats in one order. Video tapes: VHS, VHS-C, S-VHS, Video8, Hi8, Digita…
How long does media digitizing take?
Typical turnaround is about 2 to 6 weeks after we receive your media in Richmond, Virginia. Timing depends on the number of items, format mix, condition, and any add-on work such a…
Will my USB thumb drive work on a new PC or Mac?
Yes. We can provide a USB thumb drive with modern connectors so it works with newer computers. Many drives support both traditional USB-A and newer USB-C style connections—ask us w…

Browse other FAQ topics

Video · Film · Photo · Audio · Data disks