Digital transcription is a method of recording and storing of audio files in a digital format on a chip, disk or computer's hard drive and then reproducing the documentation. It has many advantages over traditional analogue (tape) recordings:

• A digital recording does not get "chewed up" in the machine!
• Digital recording quality doesn't deteriorate over time or with repeated playback - analogue does.
• Editing is easy with digital, difficult with analogue.
• Prioritising important parts of the recording is easy with digital, almost impossible with analogue.
• Digital recording time available can be several hours.

The digital voice recorder can either be linked directly to the PC or can be used independently from it, with data then transferred to the computer system as and when required. And, best of all, the equipment is as easy to use as the traditional analogue recorder – if not easier.

Once in the system, the dictation or recording is saved as a file on the PC. The voice or audio file can then be attached to an e-mail (depending upon the size of the file), in the same way as you would attach a document, or uploaded to our server and sent to our fast, accurate typists for completion.

Completed work is then checked and returned back to you as an e-mail attachment (normally a word document).

Technical information

To ensure your digital recorder is compatible with standard digital transcription equipment, you should preferably purchase a model that uses DSS (Digital Speech Standard) technology. Two of the most popular are the DS-3300 & 4000. DSS compresses digital files, making them suitable for sending as an attachment to an e-mail. These recorders can also record in the WAV format, but these files are much bulkier and can cause problems when trying to send via e-mail.

The high-compression DSS file format is a simple and cost effective way of sending high-quality voice files attached to e-mails. Although DSS files are usually only 1/12th to 1/20th the size of conventional WAV files, there is no reduction in playback quality.

Hardware/Software Requirements

It’s so simple. All you need is the software which comes with your digital recorder (so you will need a CD drive). Once the software is installed and you have recorded your work, simply connect your recorder to your PC (via a USB port) and the software enables the download of the audio file. If you want to hear your recording, your PC will need a suitable sound card - most modern PCs can handle this.

Olympus Equipment

Olympus are the market leaders in digital dictation equipment and almost all of their recorders use the DSS format (see Technical Information above). For meetings, conferences, interviews and larger gatherings – the ME-30W Stereo Conference Kit is a recommended option.