Recording Modes

Dicta offers two recording modes to match different workflows and preferences.

Push-to-Talk Mode

In push-to-talk mode, you hold down your hotkey while speaking and release it when you’re done.

Best for:

  • Quick, short dictations
  • Noisy environments where you want precise control
  • Users who prefer tactile feedback

How to use:

  1. Press and hold your hotkey
  2. Speak while holding
  3. Release to finish and transcribe

Toggle Mode

In toggle mode, you press your hotkey once to start recording and press it again to stop.

Best for:

  • Longer dictations
  • Hands-free workflows
  • Users who find holding a key uncomfortable

How to use:

  1. Press your hotkey to start recording
  2. Speak freely (the indicator shows you’re recording)
  3. Press the hotkey again to stop and transcribe

Changing Your Mode

  1. Open Dicta settings
  2. Navigate to the Recording section
  3. Select your preferred mode

Audio Ducking

When you start recording, Dicta can automatically lower or mute other audio on your Mac so you can focus on your dictation.

Options:

  • Disabled: Audio plays normally
  • Duck: Reduces other audio volume while recording
  • Mute: Completely mutes other audio while recording

Configure audio ducking in Settings > Sound.