heh. It is absolutely because of the exported JPEG. The stream itself is as clear as day. I have found obtaining a useable screencap of 1080i source to be daunting, at the very least.

Update on DVD convert : Let's just say that converting an HD stream to VOB's - without butchering the video quality - is not an easy task. I believe I now have the appropriate tools to accomodate a proper conversion. Setting goal date for completion for end of the month (LOTS of other projects on my plate).