Audiobooks for Indie Authors

The three main options for an Indie author who wants to produce an audiobook.

1) Author narrates their own book. This is the ideal solution as the author has the best idea of how they think their words should sound. It also means there is no dilution of royalties.

The downside is you requires the correct equipment and more so the correct environment to record (ideally a studio with proper sound insulation). The author needs to learn all the technical aspects of recording, editing and file creation in the appropriate format. Unfortunately this is the least practical route unless the author is properly geared up or pays for the specialist services required.

2) Pay a professional actor to prepare the audio book files. The cost is variable and based on the knowledge and reputation of the actor.

As a guide the audiobook duration will average one hour per 9,000 words (the actor will require to invest between 3 and 6 hours per produced hour) and the cost will likely be between £100 and £300 ($150 - $500) per produced hour.

3) Employ a professional as in 2) above but instead of paying a fee, to share in the royalties. Using an ACX platform, the rights holder and producer each receive 50% of the received royalty. This system works well as it gives incentive for both parties to make it work and there are more people with a vested interest in marketing.

In terms of financial reward, as with other formats, there is no guarantee of sales and no magic formula to make it work. However, as a guide, audiobooks are considerably more expensive than paper or ebooks - and generally the price is relative to the duration - a 6 hour audio sells for about £14 ($22)

When choosing distribution channels, you have an option of a higher royalty rate by granting exclusivity to (say) Audible who will also sell through Amazon and iTunes or accepting a lower rate and having the option to sell yourself and through whatever channels you chose