ALTextToSpeech¶
NAOqi Audio - Overview | API | Tutorial
What it does¶
The ALTextToSpeech module allows the robot to speak. It sends commands to a text-to-speech engine, and authorizes also voice customization. The result of the synthesis is sent to the robot’s loudspeakers.
How it works¶
Speech engines¶
ALTextToSpeech is based on speech synthesizers - or speech engines.
According to the selected language, a specific engine is used:
 Pepper |
 NAO |
|
|---|---|---|
| Japanese | microAITalk engine, provided by AI, Inc. | microAITalk engine, provided by AI, Inc. |
| Other languages | NUANCE | ACAPELA |
Note: the engine used is indicated in the description of the package.
Customization¶
Using parameters¶
The output audio stream can be modified.
For example, these effects are available:
- pitch shifting effect modifies the initial pitch of the voice,
- double voice effect produces a “delay/echo” effect on the main voice.
Additional parameters are available for microAITalk engine.
Further information can be found here : ALTextToSpeechProxy::setParameter
Using tags¶
To add some expressiveness when the robot speaks, it is highly recommended to use “tags” in your text. Tags, allows you to change, in the middle of a sentence, the pitch, the speed, the volume of a word, or add pauses between words, change the emphase of word.
For further details, see: Using tags for voice tuning.
Getting Started¶
The easiest way to get started with ALTextToSpeech is to use the Say Choregraphe box.
Testing on a real or a virtual robot¶
ACAPELA, microAITalk and Nuance engines are only available on the real robot.
When using a virtual robot, said text can be visualized in Choregraphe Robot View and Dialog panel.
