A superior recording will enable continuous transcription, with few delays caused by repeated playbacks whilst trying to accurately interpret what was said. The advantages of using good quality equipment (and where necessary consumables) cannot be emphasised enough.

If you are considering purchasing an audio recording system, we would definitely recommend that you opt for a digital system. There are many manufacturers offering competitively priced devices, often with the capability of attaching external microphones required for group discussions. Those offered by Olympus and Philips, provide excellent recording quality, with entry level models offering an excellent range of functions at reasonable prices. A sound investment at the outset can result in significant cost savings over a relatively short period of time, and we recommend that you discuss your requirements with an audio specialist before deciding on the system to purchase.

Don’t forget, digital audio recordings offer superior audio clarity. The savings made from transcription costs can mean that the purchase of this equipment will recoup initial outlay expenses within a very short timeframe.

Conference / Focus Group Recordings
1. If you are recording a conference or multi-speaker event, we recommend that you use specialist equipment, with external microphones placed close to each individual speaker. If in doubt, please consult an audio technician.
2. A dedicated conference centre may be able to connect your recorder to their in-house sound system, or provide technical staff who can advise you as to the best recording solution.
3. If it is not possible to get a direct link into the sound system, it is recommended that microphones be placed as near to the stage as possible, or close to the sound system speaker. Attempts to independently record from the audience will often result in inferior recordings, often making transcription virtually impossible, so think ahead and consider how to best capture audio from delegates.
4. Important - ask speakers to introduce themselves before they commence speaking. This will enable us to correctly identify delegates, resulting in an accurate transcript. It is often impossible to determine who is speaking unless this introduction rule is strictly adhered to, failing this the organiser will need to review the transcript upon receipt and insert names, where identifiable. This, of course, is neither an efficient or cost effective solution.
5. Wherever possible, avoid having coffee breaks within the recording period. Noises from crockery, general discussion about beverage choice, etc, and indeed noisy biscuit munching, can all obliterate speech, leaving significant gaps in audio capture.
6. If necessary ask people to speak up or move a microphone closer to these individuals. Background noise is often more apparent on recordings than it seems at the event, and voices can often disappear when delegates are softly spoken.