Free Text-to-Speech Software

As the name implies, Text-to-Speech software allows one to have anything that is in text on the computer spoken. Using automated voice technology, the computer creates a voice according to specifications that is used to read the text.

This has obvious uses for those that are visually impaired in any way. This makes this issue of small text a non-issue. Merely use the Text to Speech software to read whatever is less than adequately visible.

But besides the aforementioned uses, Text to Speech software can be used to have a lot of fun and can be very convenient. It can be used to send voice messages via email to friends. It can be used to read text that one does not have time to read.

One example: I can do house work and have my computer read me a document at the same time. This allows me to study a subject and get some things done around the house.

Another example: I sent my youngest son a message on his email. It is a lot of fun giving him instructions in another voice and joking with him via the computer.

Be creative and find your own fun and business use for Text to Speech software.

First of all, Windows has some good Text-to-Speech (TTS) software available to use with your PC. Ever tried it? Here's how.

Go to Start>Control Panel>Speech. Then select the Text to Speech tab. Here you can select which options you want and control the sound and speed of the voice used.

After these selections are made, if you want to have the Narrator use the TTS for Windows, hit the CTRL and ESC buttons at the same time. Then hit R. This will give you the Run command. Type in Narrator and it will go from there, giving you options and settings that you can play with.

There are also a few other free TTS programs available to Windows users.

1. Speakonia: Speakonia is some great free TTS software that is very easy to use and install.

Just go to the Resources section of this article and check on the download link for Speakonia. It downloads and sets up as easily as most Windows programs do.