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elevenlabs

ElevenLabs MCP Server

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by elevenlabs

speech_to_text

Read-only

Transcribe audio files to text with automatic language detection and speaker diarization. Save transcripts to files or receive text directly.

Instructions

Transcribe speech from an audio file. When save_transcript_to_file=True: Saves output file to directory (default: $HOME/Desktop). When return_transcript_to_client_directly=True, always returns text directly regardless of output mode.

⚠️ COST WARNING: This tool makes an API call to ElevenLabs which may incur costs. Only use when explicitly requested by the user.

Args:
    file_path: Path to the audio file to transcribe
    language_code: ISO 639-3 language code for transcription. If not provided, the language will be detected automatically.
    diarize: Whether to diarize the audio file. If True, which speaker is currently speaking will be annotated in the transcription.
    save_transcript_to_file: Whether to save the transcript to a file.
    return_transcript_to_client_directly: Whether to return the transcript to the client directly.
    output_directory: Directory where files should be saved (only used when saving files).
        Defaults to $HOME/Desktop if not provided.

Returns:
    TextContent containing the transcription or MCP resource with transcript data.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
input_file_pathYes
language_codeNo
diarizeNo
save_transcript_to_fileNo
return_transcript_to_client_directlyNo
output_directoryNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Discloses API call and potential costs, and explains output behavior for both save and return modes. Annotations include readOnlyHint=true, which is consistent with not modifying input; description adds useful context beyond annotations.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Well-structured with purpose, warning, args, and returns. Slightly lengthy but every sentence adds value. Front-loaded with core purpose.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Covers all aspects: purpose, usage conditions (cost), parameters, return values, output location. With output schema present, description complements it well without redundancy.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 0%, but the description thoroughly explains each parameter including defaults, the meaning of diarize, and default output directory. Adds significant value beyond the raw schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Description clearly states 'Transcribe speech from an audio file.' Specific verb and resource. Differentiates from sibling tools like speech_to_speech or text_to_speech.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Includes cost warning and explicit instruction to use only when requested. Explains when save vs return modes apply. No explicit alternatives mentioned, but context is clear.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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