Re: non-NB: voice recognition software

[Bob Webb <Webb.Bob@nospam.Home.com>]

I have just purchased IBM's ViaVoice Pro Edition Release 8. I did so based 
upon some reviews that I read that rated it the highest (virtually neck and 
neck with Dragon Naturally Speaking). I chose this particular version 
because it came with a USB microphone which was recommended as the best.

Two points to note: (1) Be aware, though, that other versions of ViaVoice 
are also available that do not have the USB microphone. (2) This version is 
available at a significant educational discount to academics.

I have not yet tried it.

Has any one used ViaVoice with NBWin?

Bob.


At 09:49 AM 19/12/00 -0600, you wrote:
>Apologies for returning to this thread of some time ago.  I would be 
>extremely grateful for any comment or advice from those in the know (and 
>naturally if it is felt that this query is of little general interest 
>replies might be rather sent to me off-list).
>
>When this was last discussed, as I recall, it was thought that Dragon 
>NaturallySpeaking was the best choice for NotaBene users.  If this is 
>still the view, could anyone enlighten me as to what is necessary to be 
>able to use Dragon NS for work in both English and French (these are my 
>most immediate needs).
>
>Apparently Dragon NS versions are distinguished by the language version 
>they cater for, and I gather that I would need the version compatible with 
>"UK and 'world' English" (and of course the French).
>
>Moreover, I am told that for various reasons, especially if one is using a 
>notebook computer, it is best to use the Dragon Systems USB 
>microphone.  Now it appears that Dragon NaturallySpeaking Preferred  (or 
>is it Professional?) v5.0 USB (which bundles the USB microphone) is 
>currently sold in the USA, and presumably that version is the "US English" 
>version.  Does anyone know whether that particular bundle (or similar) can 
>be obtained for (or readily made to work with) UK/World English and French?
>
>One source (admittedly less than competent) suggested that for my purposes 
>the entire package would have to be bought twice: in the English and 
>French versions.  Aside from the issue of double cost, this does seem 
>strange and even absurd.
>
>Of course any further information or advice would be greatly appreciated, 
>including any lead on the rumour that the currently (or previously) 
>available Dragon USB microphone has been discontinued (the reasons - 
>possible defects; programmed improvement ... - are not clear) and is to be 
>(or has been) replaced.
>
>On past form, I suspect that one or several List members will be better 
>informed than sources I have approached on this side of the water.
>
>Many thanks,
>Steve
>
>


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Robert L. Webb
68 Royal Manor Cres.
Richmond Hill, ON
Canada   L4B 3N5

E-Mail: Webb.Bob@nospam.Home.com
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