A good quality recording will enable continuous transcription with few delays and errors.  This means that we can transcribe your recording in reasonable time.  The poorer the quality of the recording, the longer it takes to transcribe and the more it will cost to you.  As well as following our tips, good quality equipment is also recommended.  Digital recording is best but we are happy to record from tapes if you prefer.

Record in a quiet environment to minimise background and external noise.

Keep windows closed to avoid noise from the street. 

Avoid placing the microphone near air conditioning units, fans, overhead projectors or even the recorder itself as this will pick up on the recording.

Where possible get speakers to talk one at a time.

Speak clearly and at an audible level.  Ask speakers with low voices to speak louder.

Have each speaker introduce themself before they speak.

Avoid using voice activated recorders as these can cut off the initial part of speech.

Use a good quality microphone.  If there are several speakers ensure there are sufficient microphones around the room to pick up all speakers.

A microphone built within the recording device is only useful for direct dictation of one speaker and not for multiple speakers.

Turn off mobile phones as vibrating, silent ringing and the receipt of text messages will give a radio frequency which cannot be heard but will be picked up on the recording.

Avoid drinks during recording sessions as there will be interference from the sound of crockery which can also be deafening for the transcriber.

Spell out the names of people, places, companies or unusual or technical terms.