Digital Oral History: Audio Transcription Software: Home

Convert Your Audio File to a Different Format? -- media.io

• For example, among many others: convert AIFF, WAV, or WMA to MP3

Transcribe Your Audio File? -- oTranscribe

• Puts audio file and transcription in one window; no need to switch between windows
• Playback audio file at slower/faster speeds
• Hot keys to rewind and fast forward
• Option to input timestamps
• Continuous word count and timer to orient you while you transcribe
• Download transcription as .txt file and/or export to Google Drive

Format Your Transcription?

• Provide the full names of the interviewer and interviewee at the start of the transcript. If someone is unknown, identify them as such
• From that point onwards, name them by initials
• The transcription resembles a script format courtesy of Oral History in the Liberal Arts website:
  • NB: Hello. Thank you for agreeing to meet with me.
  • XC: You're welcome. I'm really happy to do so.
    • If XC laughs/coughs/sneezes/makes a big gesture, indicate it in parentheses but ignore anytime they say "um":
      • XC: This interview should be fun, but (laughs) I'm nervous and a bit under the weather (coughs).
• Example transcription available from Kenyon College via Oral History in the Liberal Arts website

Need Audio Recording Devices?

• AV equipment at Lilly Library -- includes links to audio recording device manuals
• If you're using a Zoom H4n, do the following before using it:
  • Check the batteries AND/OR connect the H4n to a power source
  • Format the SD card in the device:
    • Select MENU button on right side of device
    • Use scroll button on right side of device to scroll down to "SD CARD" on the menu
    • When "SD CARD" is selected on the menu, **press** the scroll button to select "FORMAT"
    • When asked, "Are Your Sure?" **press the scroll button to select "YES"