The quality of a transcript depends highly on the quality of the recording used. In professional settings, a sound proof room and the right equipment ensure that recordings are always crystal clear. In regular every day setting, however, producing a clear recording can be challenging. Below are some tips to take into consideration when recording.
How To Improve Sound Quality
Have good recording equipment (and backup).
Conduct your interview in a quiet location.
Test your equipment to make sure it works and that participants are recorded clearly.
Inform participants that the interview will be transcribed and that they should speak clear and slow.
Good Audio versus Bad Audio
One to two speakers
Speakers are close to recording device and enunciate clearly
Clear to no accents
Little to no background noise or audio distortions