Creating DVD Backups?

[lrtrees]

Ok, I am not to smart at this and could use your assistance. I would like to start backing up some of my DVD's before they get to trashed, but I do not know how. I have the DVDXCopy Platinum program loaded on my computer, but I have read that there are better ways to do this. I have downloaded both DVD Decrypter and DVD Shrink 3.2 and am wondering if there is a good all in one guide on how to use these programs? I don't even know which one to use first!! I also have Roxio's newest program installed that I can use to burn the dvd. I just need some help!!

Thanks,
Lon

[hoxlund]

well i would recommend dvdshrink, for illustrated guides on how to use it and to use some of its more advanced features go here:

http://www.dvdshrink.info/guides.php

[MikeTR]

For all your DVD-video pleasure: http://www.doom9.org (check out the guides).

[hoxlund]

thx mikeTR, thats probably the best place to go for guides and all the software needed

[lrtrees]

Thanks for the help and suggestions. I do have one more question. What is the difference between DVD Decrypter and DVD Shrink. I tried both of them yesturday and they both seemed to work, although I think I preferred DVD Shrink. Do they both do the same thing or are they used for different applications?

Thanks,
Lon

[hoxlund]

dvd shrink is as the name implies, it has the ability to shrink the movie (compress)

where as dvd decryptor is really only a decrypting (ripping) tool, but can also burn

[lrtrees]

DVD Shrink can also rip, isn't that correct?
I guess my confusion comes in that they both seem to do at least some of the same things, but I see where people appear to use both and I am wondering why? Unless I am missing something, and I sure could be, it seems to me that I only need to be using one of these programs.

Thank's again for your help.
Lon

[hoxlund]

your correct, both rip, but dvdshrink compresses to fit on 1 dvd

they also added dual layer burning support to dvdshrink on one of the last updates

also dvdshrink is little nicer, you can pick which chapters you want, split dvd, select to stop before credits. all of which to make it fit on single dvd

[lrtrees]

Well it looks as though I will stick with the DVD Shrink/Roxio combination in that it seems to be working for me. I know that alot of you guy's use Nero and I am sure it is a great product, but I have not had alot of luck using it. I am sure that is likely because I am not very familiar with it.

Thanks for your help,
Lon

[MikeTR]

You might want to try the DVD Rebuilder with CCE Basic combination. Unbeatable quality wise as far as I'm concerned http://www.doom9.org/mpg/dvdrb.htm.