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Before uploading your audiobook to ACX, it is essential to conduct a final listening test to ensure compliance with their standards. This step helps prevent rejection and ensures a smooth approval process. Follow these guidelines to perform an effective final review.
Preparing for the Final Listening Test
Start by playing back your audiobook on a quiet, undisturbed environment. Use high-quality headphones or speakers to catch any audio issues. Make sure your playback device is set to a standard volume level, similar to what your listeners will experience.
Key Areas to Review
- Audio Quality: Ensure there are no pops, clicks, or background noises.
- Consistency: Check that volume levels are uniform throughout the recording.
- Pronunciation and Clarity: Confirm all words are clear and correctly pronounced.
- Pauses and Pacing: Verify natural pacing and appropriate pauses.
- Metadata: Confirm that the title, author, and chapter markers are correct if applicable.
ACX Specific Requirements
ACX has specific standards for audiobook files. Ensure your audio files meet these criteria:
- File Format: WAV or MP3, with MP3 preferred.
- Bit Rate: 192 kbps or higher for MP3 files.
- Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz.
- Audio Length: Each file should be between 15 minutes and 120 minutes.
- Silence: Maintain at least 0.5 seconds of silence at the beginning and end of each file.
Final Checklist Before Upload
- Listen to each chapter from start to finish.
- Check for any audio inconsistencies or errors.
- Verify all metadata and chapter markers are correct.
- Ensure the audio files meet ACX technical specifications.
- Make any necessary edits or re-recordings.
Completing this final listening test helps ensure your audiobook is ACX compliant and ready for submission. Taking the time to review thoroughly can save you time and avoid rejection during the approval process.