Yes, the transcription is a challenge, especially if you want to get it right.

I love MaxQDA, and while I only use a small portion of the program, what it does for me is tremendous. I suggest printing their manual and watching their online tutorials, all of which are quite to the point. There was something I did struggle with and needed their tech support, and they were wonderful. Solidly recommend them (and I now even use it on a Mac!!).

Jeffrey