All righty then... (1) used HandBrake to convert four VOB files to MP4. The default preset (Fast 1080p30) produced four MP4 files that (2) imported properly to OpenShot (screenshot above), playing both the video and the audio without errors.
Next, take a box of tapes to the local camera shop, not Amazon, Costco, or anyplace with a national website. Let them do what they do, and by the time I get them back, I ought to be able to achieve something with OpenShot. If/when I need video instruction or advice, I know a pro to go to.
