How to turn your book into an audiobook for authors? The Ultimate Guide

As an author in the digital age, having your work available in various formats makes sense. The audiobook industry has grown significantly over the years,...

As an author in the digital age, having your work available in various formats makes sense. The audiobook industry has grown significantly over the years, with more people turning to audiobooks as their preferred method of consuming content. This ultimate guide will walk you through how to turn your book into an audiobook, whether it's a bestseller, self-help, non-fiction, or your first book.

How do I turn a regular book into an audiobook?

You can either self-record or hire a professional narrator to convert your book into an audiobook. For self-recording, you need a quiet space, high-quality recording equipment, and software like Audacity for recording and editing. Hiring a professional narrator usually involves finding suitable candidates from platforms like ACX, selecting one based on your budget and their expertise, and collaborating with them to produce the audiobook.

How much does it cost to convert a book to an audiobook?

The cost of converting a book into an audiobook depends on whether you choose to self-record or hire a professional narrator. Self-recording might cost between $300 to $500 for the required equipment and software. Hiring a professional narrator can cost anywhere from $2000 to $5000 for a standard-length book.

What app turns any book into an audio book?

There's no app that can automatically turn any book into an audiobook with high-quality results. However, there are platforms like ACX and Findaway Voices where you can find narrators to help you create audiobooks. Audacity and GarageBand are among the software that authors use to record and edit their audiobooks.

How much does it cost to self-publish an audiobook?

The costs of self-publishing an audiobook are mostly tied up in the equipment needed for recording and editing, which can range from $300 to $500. This includes a high-quality microphone, headphones, pop filter, and audio editing software. If you decide to hire a professional for editing and post-production, that will add to your costs.

How to create an audiobook?

To create an audiobook, you first need to decide if you'll narrate the book yourself or hire a professional. Once the narration is complete, the audio files need to be edited for clarity and consistency. The finished audiobook is then prepared for distribution on platforms like Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

What is the best way to get my book on Audible?

The best way to get your book on Audible is through ACX, Amazon's Audiobook Creation Exchange. Once your audiobook is complete, you can submit it to ACX for distribution on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

What is the best app to turn a book into an audiobook?

There's no definitive "best" app, as the right choice depends on your needs and technical skills. However, ACX stands out for its comprehensive features, including connecting authors with narrators, and distributing the final product. Audacity is a highly recommended software for recording and editing audio files, especially for beginners.

How to turn your book into an audiobook for authors?

Authors can turn their book into an audiobook by choosing to self-record or hiring a professional narrator. This process involves preparing the manuscript, recording, editing, and post-production. Finally, you need to decide on a distribution method, with platforms like ACX and Findaway Voices offering distribution services to major outlets like Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

Best Apps for Turning a Book into an Audiobook

Several apps and platforms can help you convert your printed book into an audio version. Here are the top 8 options:

1. ACX: Amazon's Audiobook Creation Exchange lets authors connect with narrators and distribute the final product on platforms like Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.
2. Findaway Voices: This platform offers a wide network of narrators and distribution to over 40 platforms, including Audible, Apple, and more.
3. Audacity: A free, open-source software for recording and editing audio files. It's suitable for beginners and professional authors alike.
4. GarageBand: Apple's recording software is easy to use for Mac users and offers robust editing features.
5. Pro Tools: This professional-grade software is used in recording studios, providing excellent sound quality and editing features.
6. Kindle Create: Amazon's software for creating Kindle books also allows you to create "read-along" audiobooks.
7. Logic Pro X: A step up from GarageBand, offering more advanced features for Mac users.
8. Adobe Audition: This software offers high-quality recording and editing tools, with a steeper learning curve and price tag.

Converting your entire book into an audiobook opens up new avenues to make money and reach a broader audience. While the process might seem daunting at first, this step-by-step guide simplifies the journey from your first audiobook recording to its successful distribution. Whether you're a seasoned author or publishing your first self-help book, diving into the audiobook market is worth considering.