MacSpeech's Dictate Software

MacSpeech Dictate is a speech recognition program for the Mac. A review from MacWorld suggests that this software offers recognition as good as similar Windows software, such as Dragon NaturallySpeaking. (Version 1.5 of MacSpeech Dictate is powered by Dragon from Nuance.) The package includes software and a noise-canceling microphone headset. There is an option to upgrade to a professional-level microphone if you purchase from MacSpeech directly. The Mac internal microphone cannot be used with this software.

The software requires about a 10-minute training to configure for the speaker. MacSpeech provides a number of video tutorials to install the software, create a profile, train, edit, and create voice commands for macros as links on their home page.

Reviews are mixed with most reviewers concerned about the software's editing capabilities. Many of the reviews from 2008 are mixed with pros/cons listed by users. Hopefully the upgrade to version 1.5 has improved the software's performance.

As of November 1, 2009, the price on the MacSpeech site is $249.00. The Amazon price is $159.49 with free shipping. Medical and Legal versions of the software are also available.