Reach More Listeners: Alternative Options for Audiobook Distribution

Reach More Listeners: Alternative Options for Audiobook Distribution

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Pros and Cons of Publishing Audiobooks on ACX
3. The Problem with Exclusive Royalties on ACX
4. Alternatives to ACX for Audiobook Distribution
5. Findaway Voices: A Comprehensive Distribution Platform
6. The Benefits of Spotify Distribution
7. Choosing the Right Platforms for Audiobook Distribution
8. PublishDrive: A Subscription-Based Distribution Service
9. Cobo Writing Life: Reaching a Wider Audience
10. Direct Sales and BookFunnel: Empowering Authors

Article:

Expanding Your Reach: Alternatives to ACX for Audiobook Distribution

Introduction

If You're an author considering publishing your audiobooks, you may have reservations about using Audiobook Creation Exchange (ACX) due to various concerns and limitations. Fortunately, there are alternative platforms available that can help you reach a wider audience and increase your author platform exponentially. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of ACX and Delve into alternative options for audiobook distribution.

Pros and Cons of Publishing Audiobooks on ACX

ACX, owned by Amazon, is a popular platform for audiobook distribution, primarily due to its wide reach and access to Amazon, Audible, and Apple customers. However, there are both pros and cons to consider when using ACX.

Pros:

• Wide distribution through Amazon, Audible, and Apple
• Access to a large potential audience of audiobook listeners
• Detailed audiobook specifications for high-quality production

Cons:

• Exclusive agreements required for higher royalties, limiting distribution options
• Lower royalties for non-exclusive agreements
• Limited control over pricing and promotions
• Predatory practices and policies

The Problem with Exclusive Royalties on ACX

ACX offers higher royalties (up to 40%) for exclusive agreements, but this limits the distribution of your audiobook to their platform. While ACX may have the lion's share of listeners through Amazon, Audible, and Apple, it may not be the best avenue for every author seeking to expand their reach and gain more readers.

Alternatives to ACX for Audiobook Distribution

1. Findaway Voices: A Comprehensive Distribution Platform

Findaway Voices is a highly recommended platform for authors looking to distribute their audiobooks. As they work with over 40 retailers and libraries, including Apple, Spotify, and numerous others, Findaway Voices offers extensive reach and access to a diverse audience. Their non-exclusive options allow authors to retain control over their distribution and royalties, while still benefiting from their wide network of partners.

One of the notable advantages of Findaway Voices is their focus on libraries, an often-overlooked market for audiobooks. By making your audiobook available in libraries, you can reach even more readers and expand your exposure.

2. The Benefits of Spotify Distribution

Spotify, a popular music streaming platform, has also entered the audiobook market. With their acquisition of Findaway Voices, audiobooks can now be streamed by premium subscribers on Spotify. While the royalty rates may be lower compared to other platforms, the potential reach of Spotify's audience is immense, making it an attractive option for authors seeking to tap into a broader market.

Choosing the Right Platforms for Audiobook Distribution

When selecting platforms for audiobook distribution, it is crucial to consider your specific goals and target audience. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Personalization: Each platform offers a unique set of benefits and limitations. Consider your preferences for pricing control, exclusivity, and availability in specific markets.
• Royalty Rates: Evaluate the percentage of royalties offered by different platforms, especially when considering exclusive versus non-exclusive agreements.
• Additional Distribution Channels: Look for platforms that have partnerships with various retailers, libraries, and music streaming services to maximize your reach.
• Direct Sales: Explore platforms like BookFunnel that enable authors to sell audiobooks directly to their readers, avoiding the need for distribution through third-party channels.
• Build an Author Platform: Consider which platform aligns best with your overall publishing strategy and helps you expand your reader base through increased exposure.

Conclusion

Expanding your reach beyond ACX can be a game-changer for authors aiming to reach more listeners and increase their audiobook sales. With platforms like Findaway Voices, Spotify, PublishDrive, Cobo Writing Life, and others, authors have numerous options for reaching a wider audience and achieving greater success in the competitive audiobook market. By carefully evaluating the pros and cons of each platform and considering your specific goals, you can make an informed decision about the best distribution strategy for your audiobooks.

Highlights:

• Explore alternative platforms for audiobook distribution beyond ACX
• Findaway Voices offers extensive reach and access to libraries
• Spotify's audiobook distribution offers potential for tapping into a broader market
• Consider personalization, royalty rates, and additional distribution channels when choosing platforms
• Direct sales through platforms like BookFunnel provide control and direct access to readers

FAQ:

Q: Is ACX the only platform for audiobook distribution? A: No, there are several alternative platforms available that offer wider reach and distribution options beyond ACX.

Q: Can I distribute my audiobook through multiple platforms simultaneously? A: Yes, many platforms allow non-exclusive distribution, enabling authors to distribute their audiobooks across multiple platforms simultaneously.

Q: Should I consider libraries as a distribution Channel for my audiobook? A: Yes, libraries are an important and often overlooked market for audiobooks, providing an opportunity to reach more readers and expand your audience.