Transcribing CD Audio Files - Help Please

[New Leaf VA]

For the first time, I've received an audio file in .cda format through YouSendIt.

I downloaded it to my computer and then loaded it into ExpressScribe, but it won't play. Looking under help in ExpressSribe's instructions, they only give instructions for playing from an actual CD, if I'm understanding them correctly.

Can someone explain to me what I need to do to get this file to play? Do I need to burn the audio to a CD first?

TIA!

[Melissa~HVAS]

The makers of ExpressScribe also have a free software download available from their website called Switch that might work by allowing you to convert your file to a format that ES recognizes. I have not tried it myself, but it might be worth a shot.

Good luck!

[j vansickle va]

The Switch converter works well. Never used it with that file format, but it has worked with others.

Good luck!

Jaimie

[Kerans VA]

Hi SueAnne,

You need to convert the .cda file to a format that Express Scribe can read, like a .wav file. NCH, the makers of Express Scribe have another program called WavePad that can do just that.

You need to download WavePad for free here and then use it to open the .cda file, then 'save as' a .wav file.

If this is confusing you more, you can find the exact instructions on how to do this here. For future reference, you can also find a list of audio and video files Express Scribe can load here.

Good luck!

[New Leaf VA]

Thank you, ladies, for your prompt responses.

Switch couldn't convert the file and WavePad gave me a message that the file may be corrupt, so I'll have to contact the client.

But now I know for the future.

Thanks again!

SueAnne

[Office Goddess]

You may also try burning it to a cd and see if ExpressScribe will then recognize it THAT way...