How to Become a Voice Actor for Audible

Audiobooks are very popular and many people use them to listen to books when they don’t want to read them. One of the biggest audiobook platforms in the world is Audible and you may be wondering how to become a voice actor for it.

If you like to read out loud or have a good voice and enjoy storytelling, you can become a voice actor for Audible. The good news is that you don’t have to be famous or need a big studio for that. All you need is right tools and steps, and you can get started today, even from home.

This guide will show you how you can become a voice actor for Audible. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, you will find everything you need in this guide.

What Is Audible?

Audible is a company owned by Amazon that lets people listen to audiobooks, podcasts and other spoken content. It has millions of users around the world. But here’s something many people don’t know. Most of the voice actors on Audible are regular people just like you who record books at home using simple equipment.

You can become one of them by using a platform called ACX.

What Is ACX?

ACX stands for Audiobook Creation Exchange. It is the official platform that is used by Audible gets to make audiobooks.

• Authors upload books they want to turn into audiobooks
• Voice actors (like you) give auditions to narrate those books
• When you are chosen, you can record the book and get paid

If you want to work with Audible as a voice actor, ACX is the place where you can start.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

• A computer (Windows or Mac)
• A quiet room to record
• A good quality microphone
• Headphones
• Free audio recording software like Audacity or a paid one like Adobe Audition
• An Amazon account

You do not need to buy expensive items or have a big studio, all you need is a quiet place and clear sound.

How to Become a Voice Actor for Audible

Sign Up on ACX

1. Go to www.acx.com and click “Sign Up Now”.
2. Log in with your Amazon account

3. Click on “I’m a producer” which means you want to record audiobooks.

You will be asked to make a profile so that publishers and writers can see your work.

Build Your Voice Actor Profile

This is like your resume. 

• Your name or stage name.

• A short bio (who you are and what you offer)

• Your voice styles (calm, energetic, deep, etc.)

• Languages or accents you can speak
• Your recording setup (microphone, software, etc.)

Make a good first impression by keeping it short, clear and friendly.

Record and Upload Voice Samples

If you want to be heard, you need to share audio clips of your voice. These samples show what you can do and how you do it.

• A short part from a novel
• A piece of non-fiction (like a biography or self-help)
• A children’s book sample
• Different accents or characters (optional)

Every clip should be about one to two minutes long. Make sure there is no noise in the background.

Find Books to Audition For

You can look for books to read once your profile is ready.

1. Go to the “Auditions” section on ACX.

2. Filter by genre, length or payment type

3. Click on a book to see details

4. Download the script and record your audition

Then upload your recording so the author can listen to it.

Tip: When you first start out, you should apply for shorter books. It is easier to do and takes less time to build up your profile.

Get Hired and Record the Full Book

If the author likes your voice, they will offer you the job. 

• Agree on a schedule
• Record the full book in parts (called chapters or sections)
• Upload each finished file to ACX

Follow the rules set out by ACX (which you can find on their website). Make sure your recordings are clear and at the right volume.

You can use free tools like Audacity to clean up your audio and remove noise.

Get Paid

• Per finished hour – You can get paid a fixed amount for each hour of recorded audio
• Royalty share – You can also get a percentage of every sale of the audiobook
• Royalty share plus – A mix of both

When you first start out, you should go for profit share to build an image. Pay-by-the-hour jobs can pay more after a while.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

• Background noise in my recording - Try using a noise filter in your software or record in a closet or small space with soft materials around.
• My voice sounds flat or boring - Try smiling while reading. It helps your voice sound warm and friendly.
• I get nervous while recording - That’s normal! Take breaks, practice often and record small sections at a time.
• ACX says my audio doesn’t meet standards - Use their free guide or watch tutorials online about the ACX audio requirements. It’s mostly about sound levels and file format.

Conclusion

You don’t need to be a professional actor to become a voice artist on Audible. With a little practice, the right tools and a clear voice, you can start recording audiobooks from your own home. ACX makes it easy for anyone to audition and get paid for their voice.

So if you love books and enjoy reading out loud, this could be the perfect job for you. Start small, keep practicing and soon, people around the world could be listening to your voice on Audible.

FAQs

1. Do I need experience to become a voice actor for Audible?
No, many people start as beginners. All you need is a good voice, a quiet space and practice.

2. Can I record audiobooks at home?
Yes! Most ACX voice actors record from home using a microphone and computer.

3. How much can I earn?
You can earn $50 to $400 per finished hour, depending on your skill and the book. Royalty share can also give long-term income.

4. What kind of books can I audition for?
You’ll find all types — fiction, non-fiction, self-help, kids' books and more.

5. How long does it take to get your first job?
It depends, but many people get their first job after a few auditions. Keep trying and improving your samples.