What Is TTS?
Text-To-Speech (TTS) is an assistive technology that converts digital text into spoken words. Often referred to as "read aloud," this technology allows users to listen to text on a computer or digital device with the click of a button. TTS is particularly effective in eLearning environments as it enhances content accessibility and promotes learner engagement. It aids students with learning challenges, visual impairments, and reading difficulties by transforming written text into audio, which facilitates their learning experience. Additionally, TTS benefits auditory learners by reinforcing content through listening, thereby improving retention and comprehension.
This technology is widely used in language learning programs, such as Babbel and Duolingo, where it provides learners with real-time audio of correct sentence structures, intonation, and pronunciation. TTS is an essential tool for both beginners and experienced learners, enabling them to practice speaking, acquire new vocabulary, and reinforce their learning through repetition.
Table Of Contents
How Does Text-To-Speech Software Work?
- Ivona
- NaturalReader
- Zabaware Text To Speech Reader
- iSpeech
- Acapela Group Virtual Speaker
- TextSpeech Pro
- AudioBookMaker
- TextAloud4
- Read The Words
- Voice Reader Studio 22
How To Choose The Best Text-To-Speech Software?
How Does Text-To-Speech Software Work?
Text-To-Speech (TTS) technology utilizes advanced neural networks and deep learning algorithms to produce more natural and expressive speech. The process consists of four key steps:
- Text Analysis
The system begins by analyzing the text, breaking it down into words and sentences to understand their structure and meaning. - Linguistic Processing
Next, the text is converted into phonemes, transforming the written language into a format that machines can understand. - Prosody Assignment
In this step, suitable prosody, rhythm, and intonation are assigned to the text to ensure it flows naturally when spoken. - Voice Synthesis
The final step involves voice synthesis, where the system generates an audible output that closely resembles human speech.
TTS is compatible with almost all personal digital devices, including tablets, smartphones, and PCs. It can read any text file aloud, such as documents created in Word or Pages, and can even read content from web pages. The voices used in TTS are computer-generated, and you can usually adjust the reading pace. Some voices closely resemble human speech, although the quality may vary. There are also computer-generated voices designed to mimic the sound of a child's voice.
Many TTS programs highlight each word as it is read aloud, helping children to see and hear the text simultaneously. Additionally, some TTS solutions incorporate optical character recognition (OCR) technology, allowing them to read text from images. For example, your child could take a picture of a street sign and have the words converted to audio.
Best Text To Speech Software
Narration and the use of human voices are key elements in maintaining the interest and emotional connection of online learners with an eLearning course. Fortunately, there are many professional voice-over artists available. However, hiring a professional can become quite expensive. Text-To-Speech (TTS) software tools, though, can eliminate the need for this expense. Below, we discuss some of the best TTS software options available:
1. Ivona
Ivona, a member of the Amazon group of companies, is widely recognized as one of the best text-to-speech software tools available.
Features
- Human-Like Voices
Ivona is renowned for its natural-sounding voice options, many of which are now integrated into Amazon Polly. - Integration-Friendly
Historically, Ivona voices could be integrated into various applications and devices, though current integrations are primarily managed through Amazon Polly APIs.
Plans
Since Amazon's acquisition, Amazon Polly has offered a free plan for a limited time. After this period, charges apply based on the number of characters processed. Costs vary depending on the voice type (Standard, Neural, etc.) and the total number of characters used. To get quotes, it's advisable to contact their team directly.
2. NaturalReader
NaturalReader is an excellent Text-To-Speech software that also includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) support for both Windows and Mac users. It also allows users to adjust the speech speed.
Features
- Free Download With Compatibility
The free version is available and is compatible with PDF, Word files, and web pages. - Variety Of Voice Options
Users can choose from multiple voice options including US English, British English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Arabic, Chinese, and Japanese. - OCR Capability
With OCR, you can scan printed text and convert it into digital text, which you can listen to in audio form or save onto your computer. - Support For Learning Disabilities
This software is particularly beneficial for people with learning disabilities. Its "see it highlighted as you listen" feature is an effective solution for learners with dyslexia and visual impairments. Additionally, real-time spelling feedback helps address spelling weaknesses, making it a valuable tool for online learners facing such challenges.
Plans
NaturalReader offers a Free Plan, a Plus Yearly plan priced at $119 per year, and a Pro Yearly plan priced at $159 per year.
3. Zabaware Text To Speech Reader
Zabaware Text-To-Speech Reader includes a speech synthesizer that can read various types of documents.
Features
- Compatibility With Various Text Types
Supports documents, emails, websites, clipboard contents, and Windows dialog boxes. - Speed Reading
Quickly processes large volumes of reading material with the speed reading feature. - Helpful For Users With Learning Disabilities
Zabaware's features are designed to assist individuals with reading disorders and concentration difficulties.
Plans
- Individual AT&T Voice: $24.95
- Bundle Of Two Voices: $29.95
4. iSpeech
iSpeech is a Text-To-Speech software that can convert text into various audio formats, making it compatible with multiple devices. Applications are available for iPhone and Android.
Features
- Multiple Formats
Supports WAV, MP3, OGG, WMA, AIFF, A-law, U-law, VOX, and MP4. - Broad Platform And Device Support
iSpeech's APIs and SDKs are platform-agnostic and compatible with any device connected to the internet.
Plans
iSpeech offers a Basic plan free of charge, as well as a Plus plan for $2.95 per month and a Premium plan for $3.95 per month.
5. Acapela Group Virtual Speaker
Acapela Group Virtual Speaker is one of the best Text-To-Speech software tools available in the market, particularly useful for eLearning due to its compatibility with various formats, languages, and voice options.
Features
- Variety Of Voices
While Acapela offers over 30 languages and more than 120 voices across its solutions, Virtual Speaker uses a more limited selection. Some voices even have emotional variants, such as happy, sad, or whispering. - Multiple Audio Output Formats
The software provides audio output in a range of frequencies, including 8 kHz, 11 kHz, 16 kHz, 22 kHz, and 44 kHz, among others. - Speech Control
Modify settings such as voice or language while listening to the text through this useful feature.
Plans
Virtual Speaker operates on a prepaid system, offering limited-time volume packages of speech hours tailored to your project and the amount of text you need to generate. For quotes, please contact their team.
6. TextSpeech Pro
TextSpeech Pro is a download-only Text-To-Speech software that can read various popular document types, including PDFs, MS Word files, and HTML. It is designed to assist users with impairments.
Features
- Wide Selection Of Natural Voices
The paid version includes AT&T's natural-sounding voices and allows you to adjust the voice speed, volume, and quality. - Integration Capabilities
TextSpeech Pro can read your emails aloud and also read any web page to you.
Plans
Text2Speech Pro operates on a pay-as-you-go pricing model, where you are charged based on the number of characters processed by the service. To receive a custom quote, please contact their team.
7. AudioBookMaker
If you're searching for dependable Text-To-Speech software, look no further than AudioBookMaker. This tool reads any text using a human voice and converts books into audio files.
Features
- Customizable Speech Parameters
Easily adjust the speed, pitch, and volume to suit your preferences. - Highlighted Spoken Text
This feature is especially helpful for online learners with learning disabilities. - Customizable Settings
You can modify various document settings, and these preferences will be restored each time you reopen the document.
Plans
Contact their team to get a customized quote.
8. TextAloud 4
TextAloud 4 is a significant upgrade from TextAloud 3, featuring a completely redesigned interface and several enhancements to improve reading and speech conversion efficiency.
Features
- Fully Redesigned User Interface (UI)
TextAloud 4 introduces an entirely new UI along with a centralized settings dialog, making configuration easier and more intuitive compared to TextAloud 3. - Auto-Continue Mode
This mode enables users to read or convert multiple articles in succession, making it ideal for batch processing or creating multi-article playlists. - Flexible Theming And Word Highlighting
The software offers high-contrast themes and various highlighting styles (such as underlines and color overlays) to help users visually follow the spoken text more effectively. Customization automatically aligns with the colors of the article being read.
Plans
You can upgrade to TextAloud 4 for $19.95. For new buyers, the price is $34.95.
9. Read The Words
Read The Words offers a user-friendly interface and multiple language options, along with a free version.
Features
- Language Options
Text can be translated and read in English, French, and Spanish. - File Upload
You can upload documents in formats such as DOC, PDF, TXT, PPT, HTML, and even from web URLs to convert them into speech. - Audio File Creation
Free users can create audio files that are up to 30 seconds long. - Listen On The Go
Converted files can be downloaded as MP3s and played on various devices, including desktops, phones, and tablets.
Plans
- Free Bronze Membership.
- Silver Membership for $39.99 per year.
- Gold Membership for $69.99 per year.
- Teachers Pack for $99.99 per year.
10. Voice Reader Studio 22
Linguatec has officially discontinued Voice Reader Home 15 and Studio 15. The company now offers updated versions, including Voice Reader Home 22, which features enhanced functionality and broader compatibility.
Features
- Availability In 64 Languages
The software provides male and female voices powered by deep learning technology and is available in 64 languages, typically offering multiple voices for each language. - Advanced Voice Customization
Users can adjust pitch, volume, speed, timbre (voice color), and voice age (ranging from young to old). - Royalty-Free Audio Usage
The generated audio can be published and redistributed without any royalty restrictions, making it ideal for eLearning, marketing, training, and public announcements.
Plans
- Voice Reader Home 22: €99 per voice | €49 for upgrades
- Voice Reader Studio 22: €499 per language | €299 for upgrades
- Voice Reader Web: €299 per year (for small sites) | €449 per year (for large sites)
- Voice Reader Server 22: Please contact their team for pricing information.
How To Choose The Best Text-To-Speech Software?
With numerous options available, choosing the right Text-To-Speech (TTS) software can be confusing. Here are some key factors to consider before making your decision:
Quality
The TTS software should produce a natural-sounding voice that is comfortable to listen to for long periods. It should be clear and easy to understand, even at different volumes or speeds. Higher quality is especially important for applications that require voice cloning, particularly in media and entertainment.
Compatibility
Ensure that the TTS software is compatible with your chosen programming languages, hardware, and software. It should also support your preferred audio formats, such as MP3 or WAV, if necessary.
Ease Of Use
Evaluate how user-friendly the TTS options are to determine how many resources you need for integration into your application. An intuitive TTS solution with comprehensive documentation and regular updates can significantly reduce development time and costs.
Cost
The pricing for TTS software can vary widely; some charge based on character usage, while others offer subscription options. While some may require internal expertise to implement, open-source solutions might offer essential features at no cost, with charges for additional features and support.
Language Support
Supporting multiple languages and accents is crucial for multilingual applications. While American English may suffice for some uses, a wider range of languages is necessary for others.
Latency
Different applications have varying requirements for latency and performance. A TTS system with minimal latency ensures there is little lag between spoken output and text input, which is vital for interactive applications. However, latency may be less critical in contexts like movie production or podcasting.
Scalability
Consider whether to use on-device (decentralized) TTS or if the TTS system can scale to handle large volumes of text or numerous requests simultaneously.
Customization
Choose a TTS solution that supports business needs and allows customization of the speech output, such as custom voices, speed, pitch, and other features.
Real-Time Processing
If your application is interactive and real-time, ensure that the TTS software can continuously process text. This capability is crucial for maintaining a natural flow in conversations, especially in language model applications where responses are generated dynamically.
Reliability
On-device TTS is generally always available, meaning reliability is less of a concern. However, for cloud-dependent TTS APIs, high availability and uptime are critical.
Customer Support
Select a software solution that offers fast and responsive customer support to assist you with any questions or challenges you may encounter.
Conclusion
Whether you want to lower maintenance costs, help students with learning disabilities, or add new tools to your eLearning course, Text-To-Speech software can help. This software converts written text into spoken words, making it easier for different learners to access the material. By using text-to-speech features, you can improve the learning experience and help more people succeed in your course. For more information on TTS, you can check out this article.
