Finding a good translator can be difficult, especially if you do not know where to look. Audio translation services are somewhat rare depending on where you are located. The first thing that you need to do when you are preparing to contact someone about getting a piece of audio translated is to make sure that your audio is clear enough to translate. After you have done this you can begin to search for a translator.
The best place to find a translator is at a university or other establishment that has professionals that are fluent in the language you are trying to translate. Generally at a university you can find professors that will be willing to help you translate a piece of audio. You should not approach them, however, thinking that you will get a free translation. In some cases the professional will translate just for the love of it but in other cases you will be required to pay a fee for your translation.
If you choose to find another means of translation you can try looking on the internet for language experts that offer their services. Sometimes you can find experts in your area that offer audio translation services. In other instances you may be required to mail your audio file either in email or snail mail to the expert. If you are doing this you may want to make a back up copy to insure that nothing happens to your media. If you are doing this you will most certainly incur a fee unless, again, you find someone through personal connections or other means that simply loves to translate.
The cost depends on the length of the recording, how clear it is, how quickly it can be translated, and how easily it can be translated. In other words, there are some places that offer a base fee but it will likely come down to the recording itself that determines cost.
A short clip may cost as little as $100 or so while a longer clip can get into the hundreds. Finding dependable audio translation services is key. You can find just about anyone who thinks they can translate but you need to make sure that you check references and reviews before entrusting your money and project to just anyone.
Generally a translation can take as little as a day to have done or longer. Again it depends on the audio that is being translated. If you are looking for translation services make sure that you check all your options and find the best translator.