Voice Cloning in ElevenLabs vs. Descript

Introduction

Voice cloning technology has come a long way, allowing users to record audio or upload existing recordings. The AI learns the voice and enables text-to-speech output in that same voice. This article compares two popular tools for voice cloning: ElevenLabs and Descript.

ElevenLabs Overview

ElevenLabs is one of the early entrants into the voice cloning field and has gained popularity for its accessible features. Users can create a voice clone by subscribing to their monthly plan, which starts at $ 5. Here’s how it works:

1. Creating a Voice Clone: You must click on the "Voice Lab," create a new voice profile, and upload an audio file of at least one minute. ElevenLabs recommends that longer uploads—over 5 minutes—don’t contribute significantly to the clarity of the clone.

2. Audio Processing: After uploading, users must confirm their rights to the voice and add the audio. Processing takes a moment, creating the new voice clone.

3. Generating Speech: Once the voice model is created, users can type any text, and the system generates speech in that voice. The results are generally impressive, although some users may find the pacing or word emphasis slightly off.

Example Test

Testing out the generated voice, the phrase “Let’s get back to work and create something cool today” produced a synthesized output that sounded relatively natural. However, longer text may reveal some discrepancies in pacing and emphasis, highlighting that while it is a passable solution, there’s room for improvement.

Descript Overview

Descript, on the other hand, recently revamped its voice cloning capabilities, aiming for quicker processing times and improved quality. Upon signing up, users can clone their voice with a new, simpler process. Here’s how it functions:

1. Voice Recording: Users navigate to the AI Speakers section, create a new speaker profile, and provide a recording of required script content. Unlike ElevenLabs, users must read a specific script to train the AI model.

2. Authorization and Processing: Once the recording is submitted, Descript takes minimal time to authorize and prepare the voice model. The quality is expected to be better than its previous versions.

3. Text-to-Speech: Users can type any phrases, and Descript synthesizes the speech with their newly cloned voice. However, anecdotal feedback suggests that the resulting audio may lack flavor, and some users may perceive gaps and variations in delivery.

Example Test

A comparison test with a longer voiceover script about ancient Olympics revealed issues similar to ElevenLabs, with pacing and expressive qualities lacking in both systems. Nevertheless, Descript is noted for its unique features like video editing through text.

Conclusion

Both ElevenLabs and Descript offer compelling voice cloning technologies, though they feature different strengths. Descript is recognized for its video editing capabilities, while ElevenLabs specializes in creating realistic voice clones at minimal costs. Users must try the offerings of each to determine which better fits their needs.

Keywords

• Voice Cloning
• ElevenLabs
• Descript
• Text-to-Speech
• AI Technology
• Audio Processing
• Voice Modeling
• Subscription

FAQ

1. What is voice cloning?
Voice cloning is the process of creating a digital version of a person’s voice to generate speech outputs in that voice from text inputs.

2. How do I create a voice clone in ElevenLabs?
You can create a voice clone in ElevenLabs by subscribing to their service, uploading a voice recording of at least one minute, and processing it through their voice lab.

3. What is the main difference between ElevenLabs and Descript?
While both platforms allow voice cloning, ElevenLabs requires fewer inputs for voice cloning, whereas Descript focuses on script-based voice training and offers unique video editing features.

4. Is there a cost associated with using ElevenLabs and Descript?
Yes, ElevenLabs requires a monthly subscription starting around $ 5, and Descript has its pricing, which varies based on the features you choose.

5. Can I upload longer recordings for voice cloning?
While both platforms have specific requirements, ElevenLabs suggests that longer recordings may not provide added value, while Descript requires you to adhere strictly to the scripts they provide.