Submission Requirements for Audiobooks on Academy Voices

To ensure that your audiobook meets professional standards and provides listeners with an exceptional experience, all audio submissions must adhere to the following guidelines:

 

Content Requirements

1. Opening and Closing Credits

  • Opening Credits: Must include the audiobook title, author(s), and narrator(s).
  • Closing Credits: Should include "The End" as a minimum requirement.
  • Music may be added to credits, but it must not overshadow the narration.

2. Retail Sample

  • Provide a 1–5 minute sample of the audiobook for promotional purposes.
  • The sample should come directly from the audiobook and be free of explicit content (e.g., violent or pornographic material).

3. File Length

  • Each file must not exceed 120 minutes. Split longer sections into multiple files with secondary headers for continuity.

4. Human Narration

  • All audiobooks must be narrated by a human voice unless otherwise authorized. Use of AI or text-to-speech without approval is prohibited.

 

File Name and Bit Rate Requirements

1. One Chapter or Section per File

  • Each file should include only one chapter or section. Upload files individually.
  • Opening and closing credits should be uploaded as separate files.

2. Proper File Naming

  • Label files with the corresponding chapter or section title (e.g., "Prologue," "Chapter 1").
  • Use standard U.S. alphanumeric characters only—no special characters.

3. Bit Rate and File Format

  • Files must be 192 kbps or higher CBR MP3 encoded at 44.1 kHz.
  • You may submit higher bit rates (256 or 320 kbps) if desired, though the difference in listener experience is minimal.

 

Audio Quality Requirements

1. Consistent Audio Sound

  • Ensure consistency in audio levels, tone, noise levels, spacing, and pronunciation throughout the audiobook.

2. Free from Extra Sounds

  • Remove plosives, microphone pops, mouse clicks, excessive mouth noises, and outtakes.

3. Mono or Stereo Consistency

  • All files must be in either mono or stereo format—mixed formats are not permitted.

 

Technical Audio Standards

1. Volume

  • Files must fall within a volume range of -23dB to -18dB RMS to provide consistent playback levels.

2. Peak Levels

  • Peak levels must not exceed -3dB to avoid distortion and ensure clear audio quality.

3. Noise Floor

  • The noise floor must be less than -60dB RMS to avoid distracting background noise.

4. Room Tone

  • Include 1–5 seconds of room tone at the beginning and end of each file for a seamless listening experience.

 

Why These Standards Matter

Following these submission requirements ensures:

  • A professional-quality audiobook that meets industry expectations.
  • Compatibility with major platforms like Audible, Spotify, and Google Play.
  • A positive listening experience that encourages good reviews and repeat customers.

 

For more information or support in meeting these standards, contact our team. We’re here to help you deliver the best possible audiobook for your audience.