Recording tips
We tend to speak approximately four times faster than we can type, therefore, it can take up to 4 hours to transcribe a 1-hour tape. However, there are times when it may take longer, due to: -
- Clarity of the tape / Clarity of the person/people speaking
- Regional accents of speakers / Speed at which person/people speak
- Number of people speaking together
- Content of recording / amount of technical terms used
With regards to the equipment:
- Use an external microphone and place close to the source of sound
- Use a separate microphone for each speaker / Record at fastest speed
- Voice-activated recorders can cut the beginning of your speech
- Digital recordings are much clearer providing more accurate transcripts
With regards to the speaker/s:
- Record in a quiet environment / Speak clearly, slowly at audible level
- Spell out technical words - or provide list
- If more than one person, speak one at a time
- If a large group where people need to be identified, ask each person to state their name before speaking
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