Good Text-to-Speech Apps?

[Pete the Geek]

I want to evaluate some text-to-speech apps for use by children and teachers in classrooms. What are your suggestions for my list?

For school, it would have to sound reasonably natural. I think it would be helpful to have DropBox integration. Otherwise, just a simple way to get the text into the app. Universal app would be a bonus.

The app store reviews text to speech are a mixed bag and I think I'm missing some, many online reviews are stale and I just downloaded a "free" app that was a complete waste of my time. I have no issue with paying for an app, though there is a limit to the number of $10 apps I will consider (hint to developers: if you want $10 for your app, have a current YouTube demo).

I have a class set of iPads and iPods in one of our schools and I'm looking for practical applications of the technology.

Thanks!

 

[dingoshark]

For school, it would have to sound reasonably natural. I think it would be helpful to have DropBox integration. Otherwise, just a simple way to get the text into the app.

It is a bit expensive but this app seems to be what you are looking for with dropbox integration and a solid text-to-speech library: www.speakomat.com

Link to iTunes: text-to-speech app speakomat

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=3qCxU8dJgvo