Decide between digital or analog dictation transcription equipment

Digital dictation equipment includes hand-held digital voice recorders that download to a computer. Some have LCD screens, recharging docking stations, voice recognition and file indexing options. Some use a USB port to transfer data, while others use memory cards. Analog dictation equipment uses cassette tapes, a microphone and possibly a headset. These systems are less mobile than the newer digital models.

I recommend: Browse analog and digital dictation machines online at Dictation Depot.com. Search for a dictation machine by brand or type at Officetronics.

Look for dictation packages that include the dictation and transcription equipment as a bundle

Some dictation equipment suppliers offer a dictation and transcription combo. These are useful for businesses that only need in-office dictation and transcription equipment.

I recommend: Check out the dictation transcription machines from Office Direct. Find more dictation transcription machines at The Programmers' Consortium.

Invest in call-in dictation equipment to benefit your whole office

Call-in dictation services can handle simultaneous calls, which means your office staff can call in dictations at the same time, increasing efficiency and productivity. Most of these work by calling a number, entering a PIN and dictating. Then your dictation is transcribed and sent to your computer.

I recommend: Check out the DigiTel Call-In Dictation System at Dictation Warehouse. Browse a variety of call-in dictation machines at Sylvan Software.