AutoSub: Automatic Subtitle Generator
AutoSub is a command-line tool designed for automatically generating subtitles for video and audio files. It leverages the Google Web Speech API for speech recognition, offering support for various input and output languages. While no longer actively maintained, it remains a valuable tool for those needing automated subtitling capabilities.
Key Features
- Automatic Speech Recognition: Transcribes audio from video or audio files using the Google Web Speech API.
- Multi-Language Support: Supports a wide range of input and output languages for both speech recognition and translation.
- Voice Activity Detection: Identifies speech regions within the audio to improve accuracy and efficiency.
- Subtitle Formats: Generates subtitles in SRT format and simple JSON.
- Concurrency: Allows for parallel API requests to speed up the subtitling process.
- Translation: Offers the option to translate subtitles into a different language (requires a Google Translate API key).
Usage
AutoSub is simple to use. After installation (see below), you can run it from your command line. The tool accepts a source file path as input and offers various optional arguments for customization.
$ autosub -h
This will display the help message showing all available options, including specifying the output path, format, source and destination languages, concurrency level, and Google Translate API key.
Installation
- Install ffmpeg: AutoSub relies on ffmpeg for audio extraction. Make sure you have ffmpeg installed on your system.
- Install AutoSub: Use pip to install the package:
$ pip install autosub
Limitations
- No Longer Maintained: The project is no longer actively maintained, meaning there may be no further updates or bug fixes.
- Google API Dependency: Relies on the Google Web Speech API, which may have usage limits or require an API key.
- Accuracy: The accuracy of the generated subtitles depends on the quality of the audio and the performance of the Google Web Speech API.
Alternatives
Several other tools provide similar functionality. Consider exploring options like Veed.io, Happy Scribe, or Trint, which offer both automated and professional subtitling services. These alternatives often provide more robust features, better accuracy, and ongoing support.
Conclusion
AutoSub offers a straightforward way to generate subtitles for your videos and audio files. However, its lack of active maintenance should be considered. For production environments or projects requiring high accuracy and ongoing support, exploring alternative solutions is recommended.
