Audiobook Recording
Cost Calculator
Enter your word count and get an instant estimate for professional audiobook production at PHQ — including studio recording, editing, mastering, and file delivery. No guesswork.
All packages include recording, editing, mastering, QC, and delivery. Prices are package estimates — contact us for exact scoping on complex projects.
Tell Us About Your Project
Check your word processor's count. An estimate works fine — you can refine later.
What Every Full Package Includes
- Professional studio recording session(s)
- Audio editing — breath noise, mouth clicks, pacing, retakes
- Mastering to ACX / platform specifications
- Chapter-by-chapter MP3 file delivery
- Retail sample file
- QC review for technical compliance
- Up to 3 revision rounds (more available as add-on)
Your Estimate
Enter your word count above to see your estimate
Full Package Reference
All packages include recording, editing, mastering, and delivery. Price is a flat rate — no hidden session fees.
| Package | Word Count | Studio Time | Finished Audio | Sessions | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Narrator Kids | Up to 6,000 | ~1.5 hrs | ~0.5 hrs | 1 | $300 |
| Narrator Lite | Up to 12,000 | ~2 hrs | ~1.1 hrs | 1 | $400 |
| Narrator Core | Up to 30,000 | ~5 hrs | ~2.7 hrs | 2 | $1,000 |
| Narrator Pro | Up to 50,000 | ~8 hrs | ~4.3 hrs | 3 | $1,600 |
| Narrator Elite | Up to 70,000 | ~12 hrs | ~6.5 hrs | 4 | $2,400 |
| Narrator Signature | Up to 80,000 | ~16 hrs | ~8.6 hrs | 5 | $3,200 |
| Custom | 80,000+ | Custom | Custom | Custom | Custom quote |
What Affects Audiobook Recording Cost
Word count is the primary driver — but several other factors influence the final cost of your project.
Word Count
high impactThe primary cost driver. More words = more studio time = higher package tier. A 10,000-word guide and a 70,000-word novel are dramatically different projects. Budget for the right tier from the start.
Number of Recording Sessions
high impactLarger books require multiple sessions. Each session must be consistent with the others — same mic position, same room tone, same vocal warmth. PHQ manages this coordination within every package.
Editing Complexity
medium impactMore retakes, long pauses, or inconsistent delivery increases editing time. Experienced narrators or practiced readers require less editing. First-time narrators should budget for a full editing pass.
Rush Delivery
medium impactStandard turnaround is 10–14 business days. Rush delivery (5–7 days) requires priority scheduling and dedicated editing time. Add $150 for rush production.
Multi-Voice / Character Distinction
medium impactBooks with multiple distinct character voices require more session time and careful session management. Discuss your book's voice requirements before booking.
Editing-Only vs Full Production
varies impactIf you recorded elsewhere and just need editing and mastering, the cost is significantly lower than full production. Contact us for a custom editing-only quote.
After Production: Distribution Paths
Production cost is one part of the picture. Here's how your finished files turn into revenue across the major distribution platforms.
ACX / Audible
Exclusive pays more per sale but locks you to Audible only.
Learn more →Findaway Voices
One upload reaches Apple Books, Kobo, Scribd, libraries, Spotify, and more.
Learn more →Spotify for Authors
Volume-based. Best for authors with existing Spotify audiences.
Learn more →Cost & Pricing FAQs
Related Audiobook Resources
Audiobook Recording Services
Full package details and booking
First-Time Audiobook Guide
What to expect in your first session
How Long Does an Audiobook Take?
Timeline from recording to delivery
Audiobook Editing & Mastering
What post-production includes
ACX Audio Requirements
Technical specs for platform approval
Self-Published Author Production Guide
End-to-end guide for indie authors
More Audiobook Resources
Ready to Get an Exact Quote?
The calculator gives you a solid ballpark — every project is unique. Contact us for precise scoping, timeline planning, and package recommendations.