Important Notes
Transcription and translation typically take about as long as the duration of the file (e.g., a 15-minute file takes around 15 minutes).
Larger files may take longer than real-time, especially if they exceed typical lengths or file size.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To transcribe, upload your audio or video file to Sonix, then select the spoken language from the 'What language was spoken?' dropdown. This helps improve transcription accuracy.
Click Transcribe in (Language) and wait while Sonix processes your file.
After the transcription is complete, make any necessary edits before translating the file. Our translation engine uses the transcribed text, not the audio, to generate translations.
To translate, go to Translations > Translate transcript to a different language in the top menu, then choose your target language.
Translation is triggered immediately—expect another processing period roughly similar to the file length.
Once both steps finish, your translated transcript will be available in your account.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Why is my transcription taking longer than the file length?
Large or complex files can take more time to process. If your file exceeds normal size or has multiple languages, processing may extend beyond real-time.
Why can't I see my translation in Sonix?
Ensure you've initiated the translation process by clicking on the "Translate transcript to a different language" option in the Translations tab. Once the translation is complete, the translated version will appear alongside the original transcript.
Can I speed up the transcription process?
Yes. Contact Sonix support to request faster processing. Be aware that expedited workflows may result in slightly lower accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Sonix really take the same amount of time as the file length?
Yes. Typically, a 15-minute file takes about 15 minutes to transcribe. Translation adds similar time afterward.
How long does translation take after transcription?
The translation step usually takes no longer than the original file duration so expect translation runtime similar to transcription time.
Do longer files take more time?
Yes. Very large recordings may exceed real-time processing. You may experience longer processing depending on size and complexity.
What affects transcription and translation speed?
Several factors can affect how quickly your file is processed. Audio quality is important—poor or noisy recordings usually take more time. The size and length of your file also matter, as larger or longer files naturally require more processing time. If your file contains multiple languages, this can further increase the processing duration. Finally, your internet speed influences how fast your files upload and download, impacting the overall turnaround time.
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For further assistance, please contact Sonix support at [email protected] or through the chatbox located in the bottom right corner of our website.