Free Audio to Text Conversion | Easy Transcription Tutorial

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Downloading and Installing Virtual Audio Cable
3. Setting Up Virtual Audio Cable on Windows
4. Changing Sound Settings
5. Transcribing Audio and Video Files in Microsoft Word Online
6. Transcribing Audio and Video Files in Google Docs
7. Reverting to Original Sound Settings
8. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore a method to transcribe unlimited audio and video files completely for free. We will discuss how to download and install Virtual Audio Cable, set it up on your computer, and use it in combination with Microsoft Word Online or Google Docs to transcribe your files. Whether you are a beginner or not-so-tech-savvy, this guide will walk you through every step of the process. So let's get started!

Downloading and Installing Virtual Audio Cable

To begin transcribing your audio and video files, you will first need to download and install Virtual Audio Cable. This software acts as a virtual audio device, allowing you to forward audio from your computer to the transcription tool. Simply follow the steps below:

1. Visit the Website Mentioned in the description of the video.
2. Download the appropriate version of Virtual Audio Cable Based on your operating system (Windows or Mac).
3. Extract the downloaded zip file.
4. Locate the files labeled "VB cable setup" and "VB cable setup 64" to match your system.
5. Right-click on the file You need to download and select "Run as Administrator."
6. If prompted, grant necessary permissions or ensure your user account has administrative privileges.
7. Click "Install driver" and carefully follow the instructions.

Note: After installing the audio driver, your computer's sound output will be redirected to Virtual Audio Cable. This means you won't hear any sound through your speakers. We will discuss how to revert to the original sound settings later in the article.

Setting Up Virtual Audio Cable on Windows

Once you have installed Virtual Audio Cable, it's time to set it up on your Windows computer. Follow these steps:

1. On your taskbar, right-click on the sound icon and select "Sound settings" (the process may vary slightly depending on your version of Windows).
2. Locate the output settings and change the output device to "VB audio Virtual Cable" or "Cable Input."
3. Similarly, change the input device to "VB audio Virtual Cable" or "Cable Output Audio."
4. Verify that the settings reflect these changes.

These adjustments ensure that the audio input is directed through Virtual Audio Cable, which will be used for transcription.

Changing Sound Settings

When you are done with transcription and want to revert to your original sound settings, follow the steps below:

1. Right-click on the sound icon at the bottom of the screen.
2. Click on "Sound settings."
3. In the sound settings menu, change the output device back to your preferred speakers or headphones.
4. Likewise, change the input device back to your normal microphone or headset.

By making these changes, you will restore your computer's default sound configuration.

Transcribing Audio and Video Files in Microsoft Word Online

Microsoft Word Online offers a convenient dictation feature that allows you to transcribe your audio and video files easily. Here's how you can use it:

1. Open Microsoft Word Online in your browser (preferably Google Chrome).
2. Sign in with your Microsoft account or Create a free account if you don't have one.
3. Locate the dictate button, which resembles a microphone, and click on it.
4. In the settings menu, choose your language and select "VB audio Virtual Cable" or "Cable Output" as the microphone input.
5. Set any preferences for punctuation and phrase filtering as desired.
6. Open the audio or video file you want to transcribe in a media player, such as VLC player or Windows Media Player.
7. Start playing the file and quickly click on the dictate button in Microsoft Word.
8. The transcription will begin, and you will see the words appearing on the screen as Microsoft Word transcribes what it hears.
9. Microsoft Word will automatically add punctuation and split the text into sentences, making the transcription process smoother.
10. Once the transcription is complete, you can copy the text (Ctrl + C) and paste it into any document or application of your choice.

It's important to note that Microsoft Word Online is recommended for files longer than three minutes, as it continues transcribing without stopping.

Transcribing Audio and Video Files in Google Docs

If you prefer using Google Docs for transcription, the process is slightly different. Here's how you can transcribe your files using Google Docs:

1. Open Google Docs in the Chrome browser.
2. Click on "Tools" in the menu bar and select "Voice typing."
3. A microphone icon will appear. Make sure you have your audio or video file ready to play.
4. Start playing the file and quickly click the microphone icon to start voice typing.
5. Google Docs will begin transcribing the audio, displaying the text as it "hears" it.
6. However, it's worth noting that Google Docs may stop transcribing after a few minutes for longer files.
7. To Continue transcribing, you will need to click the microphone icon again to start a new session.
8. Google Docs does not automatically add punctuation like Microsoft Word does, so you may need to manually add punctuation and correct any errors.
9. Once the transcription is complete, you can copy the text if needed.

Remember, Google Docs is ideal for shorter files or if you prefer monitoring the transcription process manually. If your file exceeds three to four minutes, it is recommended to use Microsoft Word Online for uninterrupted transcription.

Reverting to Original Sound Settings

If you need to switch back to your original sound settings after transcribing, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the sound icon at the bottom of the screen.
2. Click on "Sound settings."
3. In the sound settings menu, change the output device back to your preferred speakers or headphones.
4. Similarly, change the input device back to your normal microphone or headset.

These changes will restore your computer's default sound settings, allowing you to hear audio through your speakers or headphones as usual.

Conclusion

Transcribing audio and video files can be made easy and cost-effective by utilizing Virtual Audio Cable with transcription tools like Microsoft Word Online or Google Docs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, even beginners can transcribe unlimited files with great accuracy. Remember to download and install Virtual Audio Cable, set up the audio settings on your computer, and choose the transcription tool that best suits your needs. Happy transcribing!

Highlights:

• Learn how to transcribe unlimited audio and video files for free.
• Download and install Virtual Audio Cable to enable audio forwarding.
• Set up Virtual Audio Cable and adjust sound settings on your computer.
• Use Microsoft Word Online or Google Docs for transcription.
• Easily revert to your original sound settings after transc cribing.

FAQ

Q: Is Virtual Audio Cable available for Mac? A: Yes, Virtual Audio Cable is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems.

Q: Can I transcribe long audio or video files without interruptions? A: For longer files, it is recommended to use Microsoft Word Online, as it continues transcribing without interruptions.

Q: Do I need a premium version of Microsoft Word Online to transcribe? A: No, you can use the free version of Microsoft Word Online to transcribe audio and video files.

Q: How accurate are the transcriptions using Microsoft Word Online or Google Docs? A: The accuracy of transcriptions may vary depending on factors such as audio quality and clarity of the speaker. It is recommended to review and edit the transcriptions for any errors or inconsistencies.

Q: Can I transcribe multiple speakers using these methods? A: Yes, both Microsoft Word Online and Google Docs can transcribe multiple speakers, but the accuracy may vary based on the clarity of each speaker.