BookReader

BookReader is a nice and powerful audiobook generator that allows users to create MP3 files from any available text document.

This program has a beautiful layout that allows users to easily import documents and select the output file format. The main window is split into a small set of controls: the default voice pattern, document preview panel, and list of supported audio files.

Although not terribly rich in functionalities, BookReader can set the output folder, header, custom cover image, and a list of Italian voice presets. However, users can change the default number of readers with classical Windows ones. None of them are truly effective, since they all sound unnatural.

Th standard format file list is, however, the most important feature of this program. BookReader can convert documents to XML, WAV, and MP3 files from DOC, LIT, and TXT files. Although satisfying for some, the list does not include other mainstream formats, like PDF or HTML.

This conversion tool is compatible with SAPI4/SAPI5 Microsoft speech standards and is tested for specialized voices. In case multiple dialogs are present, the application allows you to use more than one reader per file. Another great feature is the engine that helps the program recognize chapters and dialogs, and associate different voices to each of them.

However, this program is not without fault. The localization is poorly implemented and certain commands are still in Italian despite changing the language to English. All the present default voices are in Italian as well, while other mainstream languages are completely missing.

BookReader is an excellent tool for document to audio file conversion tasks. It supports a couple of mainstream audio formats, so it will be easy to find playback support on any available media player. Even though it seems simple in design, this software tool allows many customization options to take place, so users can have a pleasant and authentic document reading experience.