NLS Operations Alert
No. 14-54
DATE : July 30, 2014
TO : Network Libraries
FROM : John Brown
Subject : DTB authoring tool options
It has come to our attention that there is some confusion regarding the availability and features of software tools used to produce Digital Talking-Books. To assist network libraries in evaluating these tools this operations alert contains a table listing some of the important features of the production tools used for creating digital talking-books in compliance with NLS specifications.
Please note that the Low Complexity Mastering System (LCM) is no longer supported by its developer. Two production tools are available for purchase that can be used to create DTBs compliant with NLS specifications and that are actively supported. They are the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) Book Wizard Producer and Hindenburg Audio Book Creator. Network libraries should select the production tool that will best meet their needs.
For more information contact:
Engineering Section Head
FEATURES: | LCM | BWP | HABC |
Audio Recording | | | |
VU Meter | NO | NO | YES |
LU Meter | NO | NO | YES |
QPPM Meter | YES | YES | YES |
Cue Light | YES | NO | YES |
Auto-backup | NO | YES | YES |
Pre-Roll | YES | NO | YES |
Non-destructive recording | NO | NO | YES |
Record 44.1khz, 16 bits, WAV files | YES | YES | YES |
Record other sample rates - bit depth - file formats | NO | NO | YES |
Audio Editing | | | |
Import WAV files | YES | YES | YES |
Import MP3 files | NO | YES | YES |
Import AMR files | NO | NO | YES |
Import other audio file formats | NO | NO | YES |
Auto-Level | NO | NO | YES |
Statistical Analysis | NO | NO | YES |
Signal Processing (VST Plug-ins) | NO | NO | YES |
Variable Speed Playback | NO | YES | YES |
Multiple Levels of Undo | YES | NO | YES |
DTB Authoring | | | |
Auto-Markup | NO | NO | YES |
Import Existing OPF | YES | YES | YES |
Session Location Markers | YES | NO | YES |
Exclude Audio from DTB | YES | YES | YES |
Render Well Formed XML files according to ANS/NISO z39.86-2002 | YES | YES | YES |
Render Well Formed XML files according NLS Specification 1203 | NO | YES | YES |
Import and edit Existing DTB | NO | YES | YES |
Export Options | | | |
Export WAV audio to AMR-WB+ | YES | YES | YES |
Export WAV audio to MP3 | YES | YES | YES |
Export to other DTB standards | NO | NO | YES |
General | | | |
Windows 7 Compatibility | * | YES | YES |
Windows 8 Compatibility | * | YES | YES |
Macintosh Compatibility | NO | NO | YES |
* Unknown or limited compatibility