Balabolka Mac: Alternatives and How to Use Text-to-Speech on macOS

May 1, 2025 5 min read

Balabolka is a well-known Text-to-Speech (TTS) program favored by many users for its versatility and feature set. However, it's essential to understand that Balabolka is designed primarily for the Windows operating system. This article directly addresses the common search query "Balabolka for Mac," acknowledging the intent of macOS users looking for similar functionality. We will explore effective TTS solutions available for macOS, including a convenient and accessible option: texttospeech.live.

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What is Balabolka? (For Context)

Balabolka is a Text-to-Speech (TTS) program that uses the computer voices installed on your system to read text aloud. One of its key features is the ability to save on-screen text as audio files in various formats. It can also read clipboard content, making it easy to convert copied text into speech.

The program supports extracting text from a wide range of document types, including AZW, AZW3, CHM, DjVu, DOC, DOCX, EML, EPUB, FB2, FB3, HTML, LIT, MD, MOBI, ODP, ODS, ODT, PDB, PRC, PDF, PPT, PPTX, RTF, TCR, WPD, XLS, and XLSX. Balabolka enables users to customize the font and background color for enhanced readability. You can also adjust voice parameters like rate and pitch to suit your preferences, and use a substitution list to improve articulation by correcting common pronunciation issues.

Additionally, Balabolka offers synchronized text saving (LRC files or MP3 tags) to correlate text with audio during playback. A portable version is available for use on the go, and a command-line utility provides advanced control. As a fun fact, the name "Balabolka" means "chatterer" in Russian, which aptly describes the program's function. The interface is also customizable with different skins. Finally, it utilizes Microsoft Speech API 4.x/5.x and Microsoft Speech Platform text-to-speech engines, and offers spell checking with Hunspell or Microsoft Office language modules.

The Problem: Balabolka is Not Available for Mac

It's important to emphasize that Balabolka is not natively available for macOS. This means that Mac users searching for "Balabolka Mac" will not find a direct installation option. However, this does not mean that macOS users are without TTS options. The need for text-to-speech functionality remains, regardless of the operating system.

Alternatives to Balabolka for Mac

While a direct "Balabolka for Mac" version doesn't exist, several alternative TTS applications are available for macOS. These alternatives aim to provide similar functionalities to Balabolka, allowing Mac users to convert text into speech. Many of these alternatives offer a range of features, from basic text reading to more advanced customization options.

Some options include Text2Speech Free, GhostReader, SayIt - Text to Speech Utility, Vox Machina Free, Text Speaker, iSpeak It, Verbalize Free, Text to Speech X, Verbose Text to Speech, TextAloud for Mac, Chapter and Verse for Mac, and NVDA for Mac. Each of these applications offers a unique set of features, and some may require a purchase or subscription. These options are available for download from the App Store or the respective developers' website.

A Simpler Solution: Using texttospeech.live

Instead of downloading and installing software, texttospeech.live offers a user-friendly and convenient alternative for Text-to-Speech on macOS. As a web-based TTS solution, it eliminates the need for installation, making it accessible from any browser. This cross-platform compatibility ensures that Mac users can easily access TTS functionality.

Texttospeech.live offers a variety of features, including multiple language support, diverse voice options with customization capabilities, and an intuitive interface for ease of use. You can also choose from multiple file format options and take advantage of various accessibility features. With texttospeech.live, you can check pronunciation, create voiceovers, or help with accessibility.

How to Use texttospeech.live on Mac (Step-by-Step Guide)

Using texttospeech.live on your Mac is straightforward:

  1. Open your preferred web browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.).
  2. Navigate to texttospeech.live.
  3. Enter your text into the provided text box, or upload your text file directly.
  4. Select your preferred language and voice from the available options.
  5. Adjust the speech speed and pitch to your liking.
  6. Click the "Convert to Speech" button.
  7. Download the generated audio file or listen to it online.

Benefits of Using texttospeech.live Over Desktop Applications

Opting for a web-based TTS service like texttospeech.live offers several advantages over traditional desktop applications. The most significant benefit is convenience, as there's no need for installation, freeing up storage space on your Mac. It's also highly accessible since you can use it from any device with a browser and internet connection. Furthermore, texttospeech.live is updated regularly without requiring user intervention, ensuring you always have the latest features and improvements. Finally, depending on your usage, it can be more cost-effective than purchasing and maintaining dedicated software.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a direct "Balabolka for Mac" solution does not exist, macOS users have access to effective Text-to-Speech alternatives. Texttospeech.live provides a convenient and accessible solution for Mac users needing TTS functionality. Its ease of use, cross-platform compatibility, and range of features make it a compelling alternative to desktop applications. We encourage you to try texttospeech.live for all your TTS needs and experience the benefits of a web-based solution.