RE: non-NB: voice recognition software

["Joseph Kotva" <kotva@nospam.attglobal.net>]

Steve,

I cannot address your questions about language versions; however, I have
been using Dragon NaturallySpeaking for almost two years and I also own IBM
ViaVoice Millennium (both in the "pro" versions).

First, a word of warning about IBM ViaVoice: the accuracy is fine but it is
incompatible with n.b..  I corresponded with the technical people at IBM for
several weeks on this issue.  There does not appear to be anything to be
done about it.  I do not know if the problem remains with the most recent
version of ViaVoice.  In any case, direct dictation using ViaVoice into n.b.
does not work nor does having ViaVoice automatically cut and paste into n.b.
work.

By contrast, direct dictation using Dragon in n.b. is fast and accurate.

(From my experience, both programs work well within Microsoft Word, ViaVoice
perhaps slightly better.  Dragon is the handsdown winner for working inside
of WordPerfect.)

If you can afford it, you will want to purchase the pro version because it
allows for the creation of macros which will allow better
integration/interaction between the two programs.  (In fact, I have a couple
of dozen basic Dragon macros for n.b. that I could share.)


Also, I have been told that two microphone companies (Andre & Parrot) make
USB pods that are superior to the one marketed by Dragon.

Finally, depending on what notebook you have, you will not need a USB pod.
My Toshiba notebook works fine without one, as do, I'm told, most IBM and
Dell notebooks.  (On the other hand, a Sony or Compaq notebook may not work
at all without the USB pod).

Best of luck,

Joe Kotva

> -----Original Message-----
>>
> 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).
>