We do have an entertaining group here, don't we! I think the humor shown from the forum members is as helpful many times as the information they share
I have an update about using the Model Talker software.
It took a while for me to get the correct type of microphone to use with it. Their website said it was important to use a microphone which did not have AGC (automatic gain control) ~ whatever that is. My son actually did the research and found one with good customer reviews, and I ordered it online, as it did not seem to be readily avialable locally. I got the
SENNHEISER PC166 USB 3.5mm/ USB Circumaural Headset
Using it was easy, it has a USB port adapter connector, and I just plugged it into my computer, and turned it on. No software or anything needed for the mike.
Next, came the ambient noise issue here, as the room the computer is in has associated street noise (only 5 floors up in a city neighborhood), plus I keep lady gouldian finches, which sing pretty constantly all morning. They are in a huge flight cage (i.e. too large to move) in the next room. Ideally I'd try to record in the middle of the night when its quieter, but by afternoon even, my voice is gone. Therefore, it has to be morning, or not at all.
So, we worked on getting some soundproofing for the windows of the room, got everything ready to go, and then the cat had a crisis. He could not handle being closed outside of the room, or inside of the room. Sat there and howled on either side of the door. So.... after squirting him with a water bottle did little to make him go somewhere else, I had to wait till he sacked out for his mid morning nap under the bed.
The model talker program was easy to understand how to use, and takes sample recordings to set up how the audio feed sounds, then has a person make about 30 sample phrase and single word recordings. After I was successful in making these, I uploaded my recording to their site, and they are to get back with me in a day or two, to proceed with the rest of the voice banking. This is going to be time consuming, as I can say so little at a time. So, (as if its not been emphasized enough!) If you even think you're starting to have voice or speech impairment, do this earlier, rather than later. I know its easy to stay in denial, but, addressing it before its not such a challenge is way preferable.