VoiceBankNOW is a 501c3 non-profit 100% volunteer organization, providing virtual voice education and
resources with impartiality. VBN is not affiliated, associated with or funded by any other company.
Equipment
​VBN is not affiliated with, nor receives any proceeds from sale of ANYTHING . We do not endorse purchasing from any particular source, nor guarantee that these links provide lowest price point. Confirm that they are compatible with your own device before purchasing. These links are provided for your CONVENIENCE ONLY.
Phone or Tablet
Voicing virtually will require having a smart phone, a tablet, or possibly a dedicated AAC device (read about those here). The advantage of a phone is its very easy to tote around with you, use while in the store, or mingling with friends. Disadvantage is screen size and THUMBS, of course. Note that a bluetooth keyboard CAN be paired with most phones! With either phone or tablet, you will most certainly need a bluetooth speaker to provide additional volume.
The next question will probably be, iPhone or Android, iOS or windows? Unfortunately there is not a clear cut answer. There are good apps that work on either iPhone, Android or Windows platforms. Much has to do with personal preference.
However, at time of writing, the Whisper App, the only app currently excelling at conversational use of your AI Cloned voice (as opposed to traditionally synthesized) , is ONLY available on the iPhone and iPad.
Recording Devices
Most voice banking services recommend using an external USB headset microphone to get best quality of voice. If you are recording for CLONING, you will want to use one for recording to your computer/laptop/tablet OR we recommend the Zoom H1 for easy high quality recording to the device itself for download at your convenience.​
For voice CLONING recording directly to device micro sd card (sold separately!). ALSO useful for Message Banking.
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SpeakUnique and Acapela recommend Sennheiser or Logitechheadsets
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The VoiceKeeper recommended microphone.
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SpeakUnique and Acapela recommend Sennheiser or Logitechheadsets
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The VoiceKeeper recommended microphone.
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Bluetooth Speakers
If you are using your Virtual Voice via a phone app, tablet, or laptop there is a good chance you will need more volume in order to be heard well. There are a zillion good choices. Below is a selection of speakers that are useful in a variety of different applications that we have had success with in terms of durability, battery life, and above all clarity of spoken words.
Incredibly convenient to clip this tiny speaker onto collar for everyday use while active, out and about. Clarity but not huge volume makes it best for one on one conversations.
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At 4"x4" and a built in strap, this little powerhouse easily hooks onto belt or purse strap, but does occasionally pop off. Brings good volume for small groups, settings with more background noise, or shouting to your loved one a room away. Both these Bose speakers announce battery life percent when turned on!
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A little small, a little lighter, a little less expensive than the Bose SL micro, it packs almost the same volume. The loop is good to clip a carbineer to for a secure, if a bit bouncy, attachment.
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At about twice the size and volume of the SL Micro, this doesn't tote on the person well, but a great option for sitting on the coffee table. Originally intrigued by ability to pair 2 to get even greater volume, the process takes repairing on every use so not that practical.
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While smaller and lighter and less expensive than the Bose SL Flex, it packs same if not more volume. The shape is a not conducive to on person but also works well on the coffee table. This latest version has a 'podcast' mode that claims to be superior for vocals, we have not tested this. Earlier versions auto shutoff is a bit annoying. $$
Bluetooth Keyboards
Virtual Voicing with a phone app is very convenient when on the go. However, if you are over the age of 12, your thumbs probably fatigue while in a lengthy conversation. While not all apps or phones work well with bluetooth keyboards, they can be incredibly convenient. When using a tablet, it can be convenient to set up the tablet and be able to move around the room with keyboard or sit comfortably with keyboard in your lap. Speed is always an issue and if you paid attention in 'typing class', touch typing is a lot easier on a tactile keyboard. We have tested several and always come back to Logitech for ease of use, durability, comfort, and affordability.
Called 'mini' because it doesnt have a number pad, this keyboard has a nice size, tactile response and key depth for comfortable touch typing. Multidevice pairing, backlit, long battery life!
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While larger hands may not feel as at home on this keyboard, it is so thin, compact and has a built in cover making it easy to throw in even a small purse! Unlike some ultra compact keyboards, the keys still have great tactile response making touch typing a breeze. Multidevice pairing and long battery life!
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