Best AI audiobook creation tool for KDP and Audible

Creating an audiobook has become an essential step for self-published authors on platforms like Amazon KDP and Audible. As a self-published author myself, I've delved into the world of AI audiobook creation tools to find the best options that combine high-quality output with user-friendly features. In this article, I'll share my insights on the best AI audiobook creation tools, emphasizing how they can enhance your self-publishing journey.

Why AI Audiobook Creation?

Before diving into the tools, let's discuss why AI audiobooks are becoming popular. Traditional audiobook production involves hiring human narrators, which can be expensive and time-consuming. AI narration, on the other hand, offers a cost-effective and efficient alternative. With advancements in AI technology, virtual voices now sound remarkably close to human narrators, making them a viable option for indie authors.

Key Considerations for Choosing an AI Audiobook Tool

When selecting an AI audiobook creation tool, consider the following factors:

• Quality of AI Voices: The tool should offer natural-sounding AI voices that can capture the nuances of your text.
• Ease of Use: Look for a user-friendly interface that simplifies the audiobook creation process.
• Compatibility: Ensure the tool is compatible with platforms like Amazon KDP, Audible, ACX, Apple, Kobo, and Google Play.
• Customization: The ability to fine-tune the AI voices to match the tone and style of your book.
• Cost: Compare pricing plans to find an affordable solution that fits your budget.

Why convert a book you’ve written into an audiobook

Converting your book into an audiobook opens up a whole new audience, providing a versatile way for readers to enjoy your content, particularly for those who prefer listening over reading. Utilizing tools like ChatGPT for initial text-to-speech conversion and then refining with professional voiceover can produce a high-quality audiobook narration that resonates with listeners.

This process ensures the human voice maintains authenticity and engagement. Creating an audiobook version in English can significantly expand your reach, especially on platforms like Amazon Kindle, where audiobook demand is growing. Leveraging artificial intelligence in a beta program can streamline production, making it cost-effective and accessible without compromising on quality. Additionally, understanding the terms and nuances of working with voice actors can enhance the final product, making your book more appealing and accessible to a broader audience.

Top AI Audiobook Creation Tools

Here are some of the best AI audiobook creation tools I've found, perfect for self-published authors on KDP and Audible:

Speechify Voiceover

Cost: Free to try

Speechify is the #1 AI Voice Over Generator​. Using Speechify Voice Over is a breeze. It takes only a few minutes and you’ll be turning any text into natural-sounding Voice Over audio.

1. Type in the text you’d like to hear spoken
2. Select a voice & listening speed
3. Press “Generate. That’s it!

Choose from 100’s of voices, and a plethora of languages and then customize each voice to make it your own. Add emotion like whisper, right up to anger and screaming. Your stories or presentations, or any other project can come alive with rich, natural sounding features.

You can also clone your own voice and use it in your voice over text to speech.

Speechify Voice Over also comes loaded with royalty free images, video, and audio that are all free to use for your personal or commercial projects. Speechify Voice Over is clearly the best option for your voice overs - no matter your team size. You can try our AI voice today, for free!

PlayHT

PlayHT is an excellent choice for creating high-quality AI-narrated audiobooks. It offers a vast library of AI voices, including various emotions and speaking styles. PlayHT is particularly useful for non-fiction audiobooks, where clarity and precision are crucial.

Features:

• Over 300 voice styles in multiple languages.
• Advanced speech synthesis capabilities.
• Easy download and sharing of audio files.
• Suitable for Amazon KDP and Audible.

ElevenLabs

ElevenLabs is known for its realistic AI voices that can be fine-tuned to match your book's tone. It's a great tool for creating audiobooks that sound professional and engaging.

Features:

• High-quality voice cloning technology.
• Customizable AI voices.
• upports multiple platforms including KDP, Audible, and Google Play.
• Ideal for both fiction and non-fiction audiobooks.

Microsoft Azure Text-to-Speech

Microsoft's text-to-speech service offers state-of-the-art AI voices that can bring your book to life. It's a powerful tool that integrates seamlessly with various self-publishing platforms.

Features:

• Wide range of AI voices in different languages.
• Easy integration with Kindle Direct Publishing and Audible.
• High-quality audio output.
• Suitable for self-published authors looking for reliable AI narration.

Amazon Polly

Amazon Polly is a popular choice among self-published authors due to its high-quality AI voices and seamless integration with Amazon KDP and Audible. It offers a range of voices that can be customized to suit your audiobook.

Features:

• Natural-sounding AI voices.
• Integration with Amazon KDP and Audible.
• Cost-effective pricing plans.
• Perfect for creating AI-generated audiobooks.

How to Create an AI Audiobook

Creating an AI audiobook is simpler than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience:

1. Choose Your Tool: Select an AI audiobook creation tool that meets your needs.
2. Upload Your Manuscript: Most tools allow you to upload your text in various formats (e.g., PDF, DOCX).
3. Select Your AI Voice: Choose a voice that best matches your book’s tone and genre.
4. Fine-Tune the Voice: Customize the AI voice to add emphasis, pauses, and other nuances.
5. Generate the Audio: Let the AI tool generate the audio file for your audiobook.
6. eview and Edit: Listen to the generated audio and make any necessary adjustments.
7. Publish: Once satisfied, download the final audio file and upload it to your chosen platform (e.g., KDP, Audible, Spotify, Kobo).

AI audiobook creation tools have revolutionized the self-publishing industry, making it easier and more affordable for authors to produce high-quality audiobooks. Whether you're publishing on Amazon KDP, Audible, or any other platform, these AI tools can help you create professional audiobooks that engage your audience.

In my journey as a self-published author, I've found that tools like PlayHT, ElevenLabs, Microsoft Azure Text-to-Speech, and Amazon Polly offer the perfect blend of quality, customization, and ease of use. By leveraging these AI technologies, you can bring your book to life and reach a wider audience with minimal effort and expense.