How do I get the best accuracy when using Echo?

Echo has been designed to provide high accuracy when transcribing text, but to ensure you get the best accuracy possible, we have included some guidance below.

Using the correct microphone

Microphones can differ in sound quality, which impacts speech recognition accuracy. Additionally, if you are speaking into a different device than the one that your computer is using to record then your recording may be muffled or inaudible.

When you load Echo, ensure that the correct microphone has been selected for usage. The default audio input device on your computer may not be your preferred microphone e.g. a webcam microphone.

How do I change my input device?

Image of the Preferred Audio Input Device dropdown

Holding the microphone

How you hold and use your microphone can affect speech recognition accuracy e.g. if the microphone is held too close this can cause sound distortion and poor accuracy.

For the best speech recognition results:

Hold the microphone 5-10 cm away from your mouth
It should be held nearly vertically, tilting slightly away from you
Your voice should be directed over the top of the microphone

If you are using a headset or a built-in microphone on a laptop, it should still be kept a consistent distance from your mouth to ensure Echo receives consistent, high-quality sound.

Noise cancelling microphones

Many microphones also have different modes which affect how they receive sound. Your microphone should be in the mode which is best suited for speech recognition.

The instructions below relate to the Olympus RM 4010P. For other models you will need to consult your device user manual.

Press the F1 and INS/OVR buttons together on the microphone. A light will appear above the button
If the light is green, no further action is needed.
If the light is red or blue, hold down the buttons for several seconds until you hear a beep and the light changes colour.
Repeat if needed until the light is green

Background noise

Echo does not require complete silence, but a quieter-environment will generally lead to better results. Noise such as a desk fans, radios and other voices can lower the quality of the sound received by Echo.