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. You can find a list of our recommended fixed-microphones here.

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

If your PC is using multiple microphone devices, you may be talking in to one microphone with audio being picked up by another, this will also impact the sound quality which Echo is receiving.

• Log in to Lexacom Echo
• Click  and open the Settings from the dropdown menu.
• Go to ‘Preferred Audio Input Device’ and select your chosen microphone
• You can go back into the Settings and change this option at any time. It will remember the option the next time you load Echo.

If there is a device you always want to use with Echo, the best practice is to ensure it is plugged in (to the same slot) before you load Echo, it will be selected when you log in.

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.

1. Press the F1 and INS/OVR buttons together on the microphone. A light will appear above the button
2. If the light is green, no further action is needed.
3. If the light is red or blue, hold down the buttons for several seconds until you hear a beep and the light changes colour.
4. 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.