Recording And Transcribing A Works Meeting

[sunsocks]

We currently record our meetings on a Phillips Tracer LFH0898 and then I have to play this recording back on my computer and transcribe the meeting discussions. Unfortunately this doesn't work well as it is not a proper transcribing system with foot controls so it takes absolutely ages to keep listening to it and typing it up, constantly having to rewind the tape. I was wondering if the old (1990's) transcribing systems used by secretaries was still the best method of doing this or has it been superceded by a better system? If so, perhaps someone can point me in the right direction. I am worried if I use old microcassete recorders that it might not pick up the discussions from individuals...... any ideas would be much appreciated. Many thanks.

[EdmundD]

I suppose it depend how many people you have in these meetings. I use an Olympus digital recorder which has an extended microphone lead, handy if you are all sitting around a table. We also use Live Meeting and conference calls a lot and the Olympus can be used with a telephone earpiece. I also tend to use a notepad where I make a note of any actions and the time into the meeting. When I load it onto my laptop I have an idea of the timings on the recording of the key points.

[Buenchico]

Express Scribe Professional is what you need. It's software that allows you to control the playback of files on your computer using a transcription pedal (connected via a USB socket). The program can be downloaded for US$29.99. The (Australian) company can also sell you a suitable foot pedal (as they ship worldwide) or you could source one here in the UK:
http://www.nch.com.au/scribe/index.html

Indeed, having looked a bit further, I now see that there's a UK company which can sell you the same software, together with a suitable pedal,for a total of £69.99 (ex VAT):
http://www.usbfootpedals.co.uk/store/

[joko]

my old one had a button on it that played the tape back slow, so you could type along