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Say it again please!

Dec 5, 2000 Write an essay on this topic.

Anyone who has ever done transcribing knows how frustrating it can be to listen over and over to the same thing and still not know what is being said!

Over the last thirty years I have done medical transcribing that has to be letter perfect. I have also done transcription of Workmen's Compensation interviews for insurance companies which have to include exact conversations, keeping in interruptions, pauses, and attitudes! Either way there are several features to look for in a transcribing machine that will best fill your work needs.

One important thing to know is the type of tape that the machine accommodates, i.e. standard cassette tape, micro-cassette tape, or micro-mini-cassette tape. This need will of course depend on what tapes are being used by the person dictating. If the dictators will be using more than one size tape you may have to purchase more than one machine. Most machines only play one size tape. There are a couple of brands that have adaptors available for purchase, but these are overpriced and do not always work well.

The most important feature to look for is the variable speed feature of the machine. This will allow you to speed up or slow down the dictators voice without distorting it, enabling you to understand what he/she is saying.

Volume control and tone control are next in line, and all of these features should be readily accessible to you. You will also want to make sure that the player has the capability of playing out loud in case you need further assistance in understanding the dictator. This is a button to switch on some machines, others are done by unplugging the headphones.

Another important feature is the foot pedal. This controls the actual playing of the tape, allowing you to have both hands free to transcribe. The backup control should also be on the foot pedal, and you should be able to control how far back the tape moves with each foot tap by a simple setting on the machine. The foot pedal should slant at an angle that is comfortable for your foot to rest on.

The headphones are easily replaceable at a comfortable price. They should fit comfortably, have plenty of cord length, and be durable with clear sound quality.

Finally, once you have decided which machine best serves your needs I would strongly urge you to shop around for best prices. I was able to purchase mine for $50 less than suggested by doing this.

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