eSpeak: Text-to-Speech for Windows & Linux

Transform Text into Speech with eSpeak

Enable your computer to vocalize text with the installation of eSpeak. This software allows your machine to articulate any given text, supporting numerous languages.

A Versatile Text-to-Speech Solution

Are you in search of a streamlined text-to-speech application? eSpeak proves to be an excellent choice, whether you desire to enjoy your preferred blog content while completing household chores, or simply amuse yourself by having your computer utter phrases for playful entertainment.

As stated on its official website, eSpeak is defined as "a compact open source software speech synthesizer for English and other languages."

Platform Compatibility

Official releases of eSpeak are readily available for both Linux and Windows operating systems.

This makes it a highly accessible tool for a broad range of users seeking text-to-speech functionality.

Utilizing eSpeak

The eSpeak program in Linux presents users with a remarkably straightforward interface.

Simply input the desired text, select the appropriate language, and initiate playback. The text will then be vocalized, with the currently spoken words highlighted in real-time. Pausing or halting the speech is easily accomplished through dedicated controls. The process is exceptionally simple to execute.

Is it necessary to have text read aloud in a language other than English? eSpeak offers support for a wide range of languages.

A significant number of prominent European languages are included. A comprehensive list of supported languages can be found on the official eSpeak website for those interested. Furthermore, various English dialects are available, though the distinctions between them may be subtle. Do you perceive a noticeable difference?

The Windows version of the interface is somewhat more elaborate, enabling the opening of .TXT files and providing control over parameters like speech rate.

Animated lips accompany the speech output, a feature some users may find unnecessary. It is possible to save specific spoken phrases as .WAV files, which is ideal for adding voiceovers to videos, perhaps for purposes of anonymous activism.

Comparable to the 'say' command available on macOS, eSpeak can be operated from the command line in Linux. This functionality allows for the reading of entire .TXT files:

The command line interface also facilitates the integration of output from other command-line tools. For instance:

calendar|espeak

This command will read a selection of random facts pertaining to the current day.

Further information regarding the use of eSpeak in conjunction with other commands can be found in the following video:

If you are unsure of the location of the pipe symbol ("|"), it is typically found as a secondary function on the backslash key, located above the Enter key on most keyboards.

Exploring the Applications

Perhaps you're intrigued, but wondering about practical applications? Consider the benefit of listening to articles while multitasking. Everyday chores, such as washing dishes, become more enjoyable when accompanied by content from MakeUseOf.

This tool also proves valuable during the self-editing process. Audibly reviewing your writing, even through automated speech, frequently reveals grammatical errors that might otherwise be missed. Experiment with this technique during your next writing session.

For those comfortable with command-line interfaces, the software allows for the creation of personalized startup sounds. These sounds can deliver weather updates or even recite poetry. Share your innovative uses in the comments section.

However, for many users, the primary appeal lies in the availability of distinctive, robotic voices. These voices can be employed to playfully startle acquaintances and friends.

eSpeak Installation Guide

Are you prepared to install eSpeak? The necessary download can be located here.

Before proceeding with a direct download, Linux users are advised to first examine their system's package manager. eSpeak is frequently included in standard repositories.

For Ubuntu systems, installation can be conveniently initiated with a single click here.

Initial impressions of this software often involve amusement. However, the primary consideration becomes identifying practical applications for its capabilities.

We encourage you to share any innovative uses you discover in the comments section below.