Why should I consider creating an audiobook?

Audiobooks can significantly expand your audience by making your story accessible to listeners who prefer audio over print or eBooks. Plus, audiobook sales continue to rise, making them an essential format for authors who want to maximize their reach.

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Why doesn’t my publisher handle the audiobook?

Many publishers — even some of the “Big 5” — do not have an audiobook department and won’t automatically offer to create one for your title. However, most publishers are willing to hand over audiobook rights and royalties if you ask.

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Do I need to ask my publisher for audiobook rights?

Yes! Paper book and audiobook rights are separate. Even if your publisher controls print and eBook rights, they often transfer audiobook rights back to the author if requested. It’s a simple step that opens the door to creating your own audiobook.

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How do I get started if I want to create an audiobook?

To begin, ask your publisher for:

• Audio Rights to your title.

• A copy of the manuscript in a digital format.

• Any available artwork files (like your cover), if they’re willing to share.
   

Having these assets ready ensures we can move into production without delays.

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What is the typical turnaround time for audiobook production?

Production time varies, but generally:

• Recording: Varies by length and narrator availability.

• Editing & Mastering: Around 4 weeks after recording is complete.

• Publishing Platform Approval: ACX, Findaway, and others may take another 4 weeks to approve and publish the final product.

High-quality audiobooks take time, and we prioritize excellence over speed.

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Where will my audiobook be available for sale?

We can publish your audiobook to major platforms like Audible (via ACX), Findaway Voices, Apple Books, Google Play, and more. These platforms take a portion of sales, but the remaining royalties go directly to you.

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Does SunLoft Media take a percentage of my audiobook sales?

No! Unlike many audiobook publishers, SunLoft Media does not take a cut of your sales. You keep all royalties after platform fees, giving you full control over your earnings.

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Do I need a separate ISBN for my audiobook?

Yes, audiobooks require their own ISBN (International Standard Book Number). Without one, platforms like ACX may assign a free ISBN that ties your audiobook exclusively to Amazon, limiting your future publishing options. Owning your ISBN gives you greater control and flexibility.

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Why is publishing exclusively with ACX without an ISBN risky?

If you publish exclusively to ACX without your own ISBN, Amazon assigns one and claims exclusive rights to your audiobook. This can limit distribution options and make it harder to expand to other platforms. We always recommend securing your own ISBN to maintain full control.

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Can I narrate my own audiobook?

Absolutely! Many authors choose to narrate their own books because it creates an authentic connection with listeners. We provide an easy-to-use home recording kit (which you get to keep), along with professional guidance to help you deliver a high-quality performance.

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How difficult is the recording process for authors?

It’s easier than you think! Our home recording kit requires minimal setup, and all you’ll need to do is hit record and transfer the files to our online file drop. We’ll train you to sound as polished as a professional voice-over artist — and if you make mistakes, that’s what editing is for!

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What if I prefer a professional voice-over artist?

No problem! We work with a network of highly skilled voice-over artists who can bring your book to life. We’ll provide sample excerpts, and you can select the narrator whose voice best fits your vision.

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How does SunLoft Media’s production process work?

Our streamlined 5-step process includes:

1. Pre-Production Consultation: Review manuscript, goals, and platform requirements.

2. Recording: Author-narrated or professional voice-over artist.

3. Editing & Quality Control: Ensuring accuracy, quality, and compliance.

4. Pickups & Mastering: Making corrections and mastering audio.

5. File Delivery/Publishing: Final delivery or publishing to the platform of your choice.

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What’s included in the price?

Our full-service pricing includes:

• Pre-production consultation.

• Editing, mastering, and QC review.

• One round of corrections (called “pickups”).

• Publishing to a platform of your choice.

 

We recommend that authors listen to the entire recording before publishing to ensure they’re 100% satisfied.

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What is the cost of producing an audiobook?

Pricing is based on word count and whether you’re narrating or using a voice-over artist. You can get an instant quote using our Transparent Pricing Page — no sales calls, no hidden fees.

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Is there a deposit for working with SunLoft Media?

Yes, there is a 50% upfront deposit for audiobook production to pay for equipment and securing personnel, but this amount goes toward the total project cost. It’s not an additional charge.

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What happens if corrections are needed after recording?

Included in our price is one round of corrections (also called “pickups”) to fix any mistakes or misreads. After that, we’ll polish the final audio to ensure it meets industry standards.

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Can I publish my audiobook on multiple platforms?

Yes! As long as you retain your rights and use your own ISBN, you can publish your audiobook on multiple platforms like Audible, Findaway, Apple Books, and more.

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What happens after my audiobook is published?

Once published, your audiobook will be available for purchase and distribution. You’ll retain your royalties and can monitor your sales across platforms.

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Why should I choose SunLoft Media for my audiobook?

SunLoft Media empowers authors by offering transparent pricing, creative control, and high-quality results without taking a portion of your sales. We handle the technical details so you can focus on sharing your story.