Get a FireWire cable and rip the data straight from a dvcam to get the raw video files. Then compress with desired settings
VHS-C can be played in a normal VCR, with an adapter cassette, but the process will otherwise be the same. Excellent VCRs in good condition had gotten expensive last time I checked, though.
When I did it, vhsdecode didn't exist and I know nothing about that, but I'm completely satisfied with the results I achieved.
if they're digital 8, then of course ideally you would get a digital capture.
Perfect? A linux PC with 400 dollars RF capture card plus vhsdecode software.