Keep the Memories Alive!
Projector Rentals
We rent projectors for viewing 8mm, Super 8 and 16mm movie film, plus slide carousel projectors and projector screens. Our projectors are Dual 8 (playing both regular 8mm and Super 8), 16mm silent and optical sound, and Kodak Carousel 35mm Slide Projectors.
Projector rentals are only available for local pick up and drop off at our store location. You must be able to pick up and drop off rental units in-person. We will not ship rental units.
Projector Repairs
Additionally, we also offer repairs on old projectors, including Kodak Carousel slide projectors, and Bell & Howell 8mm, Super 8, and 16mm film projectors.
Please call us at (847) 593-4890 before bringing in your projector.
All projector repairs are subject to a minimum handling and estimate charge of $45.00.
How can I tell the difference between 8mm and Super 8 movie film?
8mm Movie film was widely released in 1932, and was very popular. The format was far more economical than 16mm film, and appealed to a larger audience.
Super 8 film was released in 1965, using the same width of material, but shrinking the sprocket holes to increase the size of the image frame.
The diagram below gives you a good idea as to which format you have:
How can I tell if my film has sound?
Movie film occasionally came with sound, either originally from the package in the case of home movies, or recorded on for the case of cartoons or movies.
In the case of 16mm, the sound was either recorded on a magnetic strip, same as reel-to-reel audio, or optically, and the projector would read the sound information. Here is an example of an optical sound track on 16mm film:
Do you rent 8mm or Super 8 sound projectors?
Unfortunately we do not.
Super 8 sound film used a strip of magnetic audio tape, and unfortunately the added complexity of a tapehead mechanism makes maintaining the units difficult. Frequently, sound projectors were newer units, that used plastic gears that wear down and break over time, with no replacement.
However, if you are looking to hear what is on your sound film, we offer film transfer services, and the audio tracks are also recorded and transferred. Click here to read more.
Why don't you ship rental projectors?
Film projectors are extremely heavy, and shipping costs would be very high for back and forth, not to mention the fragility of the projectors and the projector bulbs themselves.
However, we frequently have fully functional projectors for sale at our store. If you are needing a good, working projector, give us a call at 847-593-4890 to inquire about purchasing one.