SALT Transcription: Getting Started

Digital Transcription Equipment

Going digital for language samples is a relatively easy process. Digital files improve the overall sound quality of the language sample, simplify the transcription process and allow more flexibility and portability of the audio files. There are three basic steps to working with digital audio files: record the language sample with a digital recorder, transfer the audio file to your computer and transcribe the sample.

Digital Audio Recorders: There are a multitude of digital recorders on the market. We recommend the Olympus VN6200PC which offers a quality recording, ample recording time and is relatively inexpensive at $59. Buy Now

Transfer Files: Digital audio files can be transferred to your computer using a USB cable (included with recorder). Connect the USB cable to your computer and copy/paste the files to your computer.

Playback Options: There are several options for controlling the playback of digital audio files for transcription. If you're doing a lot of transcription, invest in a good foot pedal control as it will reduce the transcription time and improve the overall accuracy of the transcript. If you're just getting started or your budget is limited, check out the software options.

  • Foot Pedal Controls

    For transcribing audio files, we suggest using Start-Stop Universal Transcription System which retails for $189. Utilize a foot pedal to manipulate the audio file while you type your transcript directly into the SALT editor. Buy Now

    For audio and video files, we suggest using the Start-Stop Pro Gold Combination System which retails for $269. Use foot pedal control to manipulate the audio and/or video file while you type your transcript directly into the SALT editor. Buy Now

  • Software Options

    • There are software programs available for controlling the playback of digital audio files. Sound Scriber, for example, is a program for Windows® with options for variable speed and a feature called "walking" which plays a small stretch of the file several times, then advances to a new piece, overlapping slightly with the previous one. Use the software to control the playback while you type directly into the SALT editor. 2009 price: free download.