Will VCRs play both NTSC and PAL?

Well, you didn't say where you were. An "average off the shelf VCR" varies greatly depending upon your locale. Just guessing on how you phrased the question makes me wonder if you're in the US. I could be wrong so please don't hold me to it :)

*If* you are in the US an "off the shelf" VCR will only play NTSC tapes. Also TV's that will accept anything but an NTSC signal are very rare in the US as well. In Europe multi-format VCR's are more common.

No matter where you are you're going to need a multi-format VCR that will output a signal that your TV will accept. You'd have to read the specs carefully on the vcr to see what signal it outputs on the varying formats of tapes it reads. Then make sure your TV can handle that output signal. I suppose you could buy a converter between the VCR and TV if necessary.

But, keep in mind France is on the Secam system, so your VHS tape is probably not gonna be PAL. You'll need a VCR that can read Secam tapes and then output a signal compatible with your TV.

Sorry I wasn't more specific... Yes, I am in the US. (Michigan) The only reason I have a TV that plays multiple formats is because I have one of those portable video player/recorders that can play and record in multiple formats-- It's an ARCHOS AV480. It is also made in France, so I figured it would display a video from France without any problem. (I love this little gadget - it does everything) I attatched a picture of it to this message if you are curious.

That sucks that I can't find a way watch this tape... maybe I can buy a cheap used French VCR...

Oh well, yet again 'compatability' spoils all of my fun.

Thanks,

Chip

There are media services that will convert tapes to another format for you. If you just want that one French VHS tape it's probably cheaper to pay someone to convert it rather than try to get the equipment and do it yourself.

Here's a place in Michigan that will convert a Secam tape to an NTSC VHS or DVD. Looks like they charge about $8 per hour of tape for the service.

http://www.rhino-dvd.com/

Excellent Idea.

Makes the most sense.... I'm just used to always doing things myself - but why go through the grief.

Thanks a lot for all of your help,
Chip

In the UK, there are not many VCR's that convert PAL to NTSC afaik. They will output PAL 60 (as in 60hertz) but still has PAL colour.

That's because you guys in the UK are lucky :). Most of your TV's can handle 50Hz or 60 Hz. Your multi-format VCR can play an NTSC tape and never have to worry about doing a genuine conversion to PAL.

In the US the TV's aren't as flexible so the VCR has to do a proper PAL to NTSC (or Secam to NTSC) conversion. Cheers!