Using the Command 'tts' for Text-to-Speech Conversion (with examples)

The tts command is a powerful tool used for synthesizing speech from text. It is part of the Coqui TTS repository, which provides a suite of text-to-speech models engineered to convert written text into natural-sounding speech. This command-line interface allows users to produce audio outputs efficiently through various supported models, giving users the flexibility to either utilize default models or specify their own configurations.

Use case 1: Run text-to-speech with the default models, writing the output to “tts_output.wav”

Code:

tts --text "text"

Motivation:

This basic use case is perfect for users who want to quickly generate audio from text without the hassle of configuring any additional parameters. It is ideal for creating demonstration pieces, voice notes, or any application where the content of the text needs to be heard rather than read. By using the default model, users can bypass the complexity associated with selecting specific models and can focus on integrating text-to-speech functionality into their applications quickly and efficiently.

Explanation:

• tts: The command that initiates the text-to-speech process.
• --text "text": The --text flag followed by a string instructs the command to convert the specified text, here “text”, into speech.

Example output:

The command produces an audio file named “tts_output.wav” containing the spoken version of the specified text. On playback, you will hear the synthesized speech of the text input through speakers or headphones.

Use case 2: List provided models

Code:

tts --list_models

Motivation:

This command is invaluable for users who want insights into the available text-to-speech models provided by Coqui. Listing these models helps users better understand what options are at their disposal, allowing them to make informed decisions on which models might best suit their needs without having to dive deep into documentation or source code.

Explanation:

• tts: Initiates the usage of the text-to-speech system.
• --list_models: This flag instructs the system to display a list of all the models that are available for use without processing any text into speech at this stage.

Example output:

Executing this command will output a list of model names and types available within your text-to-speech environment. Users will see lines representing different models, possibly including information like language and dataset types they are based on.

Use case 3: Query info for a model by idx

Code:

tts --model_info_by_idx model_type/model_query_idx

Motivation:

For users wanting to delve deeper into specific models, this command provides detailed insights about a particular model indexed within the system. Using the index allows for easy navigation among potentially numerous models without requiring extensive searches.

Explanation:

• tts: Invokes the text-to-speech tool suite.
• --model_info_by_idx: Signals the command to find and display specific information about a model using an index.
• model_type/model_query_idx: Represents the two-part identifier; model_type is a category like ’tts’, and model_query_idx specifies the particular model number.

Example output:

Assumes the model at index specified will have its relevant details such as its configuration parameters, operational specifications, and general metadata printed to the console, aiding users in selecting or configuring a model effectively.

Use case 4: Query info for a model by name

Code:

tts --model_info_by_name model_type/language/dataset/model_name

Motivation:

Understanding specific characteristics about a model based on its name is crucial for users who prefer or require the explicit use of certain model attributes. This command supports exploring model capabilities based on recognizable identifiers ensuring precise selection and utilization in projects.

Explanation:

• tts: The command-line utility for text-to-speech conversion.
• --model_info_by_name: This flag prompts the system to retrieve and present detailed data specific to a model identified by name.
• model_type/language/dataset/model_name: A structured parameter for precision, representing the category, language, dataset, and name of the model.

Example output:

Detailed specifications and settings of the specified model will be displayed, covering aspects such as supported languages, the dataset used for training, architecture details, etc.

Use case 5: Run a text-to-speech model with its default vocoder model

Code:

tts --text "text" --model_name model_type/language/dataset/model_name

Motivation:

In scenarios where users want enhanced control over the model selection, this command lets them specify exactly which model and vocoder configuration to use, thus tailoring the audio output for projects demanding higher fidelity or specific vocal attributes.

Explanation:

• tts: Engages the speech synthesis functions of the Coqui TTS command-line tool.
• --text "text": Specifies what text will be converted to audio.
• --model_name: Used to select a particular model by its descriptive label including type, language, dataset, and model name.

Example output:

Outputs an audio file containing well-synthesized speech from the specified text and model combination, reflecting the unique characteristics of the chosen model.

Use case 6: Run your own text-to-speech model (using the Griffin-Lim vocoder)

Code:

tts --text "text" --model_path path/to/model.pth --config_path path/to/config.json --out_path path/to/file.wav

Motivation:

Advanced users who have developed their custom models can utilize this command to execute their specific models. This use case is common amongst researchers and developers who are experimenting with novel vocal synthetics or optimizing models for performance and quality.

Explanation:

• tts: Calls upon the Coqui TTS’s functionality to perform speech synthesis.
• --text "text": Directs the command to transform the specified string input into speech.
• --model_path: Points to the storage location of the custom model file, necessary for specifying the exact TTS model.
• --config_path: Details the path to the configuration file defining model parameters and settings.
• --out_path: Determines where the output audio file will be saved after synthesis.

Example output:

The application delivers an audio file (“file.wav”) containing the synthesized speech, showing the ability to utilize custom models for highly specialized text-to-speech needs and indicating flexibility of the TTS tool.

Conclusion

The tts command offers a versatile solution for those seeking to integrate text-to-speech capabilities in various applications, from simple use cases with default settings to complex scenarios involving custom models. Understanding these commands and their functionalities is crucial for developers and users aiming to harness the full power of speech synthesis technology provided by Coqui TTS.