Audible vs. Voices: What Authors Should Know Before Distributing an Audiobook

The audiobook market is exploding, and for authors, getting your title into listeners’ hands (or ears) has never been more accessible. But with more distribution options, especially giants like Audible (via ACX) and wide-distribution platforms like Voices by INaudio, it can be tough to know where to publish.

This guide breaks down the major differences between these platforms, what authors should consider, and how to decide between exclusive vs. non-exclusive distribution.

1. Audible (ACX): A Marketplace Built Around Amazon’s Ecosystem

Audible is the dominant audiobook retailer in North America, and as part of Amazon’s ecosystem, it brings serious visibility.

Pros

• Major exposure through Audible, Amazon, and iTunes.

• Easy workflow for uploading, managing rights, and setting royalties.

• Royalty incentives for authors who choose exclusive distribution.

• Access to Audible’s massive subscriber base, which is tough to match elsewhere.

Cons

• Lower royalties when non-exclusive (25% versus 40% exclusive).

• Fewer retail partners—your book primarily lives within Amazon/Audible/Apple.

• Limited pricing control (Audible largely sets the price).

• AI narration restrictions (currently very limited or not permitted).

Best for:
Authors who want simplicity, visibility, and are comfortable staying within Amazon’s ecosystem—especially those choosing exclusive ACX distribution.

2. Voices by INaudio: Wide Distribution and Full Control

Voices (acquired by Spotify) is becoming the go-to choice for authors who want wide distribution and more control over pricing, retailers, and royalties.

Pros

• Distributes to 40+ retailers, including Apple Books, Kobo, Google Play, Chirp, Scribd, Spotify, libraries, and more.

• Full pricing control, including ability to run promotions.

• Non-exclusive by default, allowing you to distribute anywhere, even self-sell on your website.

• Supports AI narration and hybrid workflows.

• Great for authors who want to build beyond the Amazon ecosystem.

Cons

• No exclusive royalty boosts (since exclusivity is not offered).

• Requires more strategy, you may need to manage pricing, promotions, and multiple marketplaces.

• Audible is included but at a lower royalty because you’re going in as a non-exclusive distributor.

Best for:
Authors who want maximum reach, future flexibility, control over pricing, and the ability to sell their audiobook in multiple marketplaces or directly to readers.

3. Exclusive vs. Non-Exclusive Distribution: What Authors Should Consider

The choice between exclusive and non-exclusive can significantly impact reach, royalties, and long-term strategy.

Exclusive (ACX only)

• Requires giving Audible/Amazon/iTunes sole distribution rights for 7 years.

• Higher royalty rate (40%).

• Great for those who expect most sales to come from Audible anyway.

But consider:

• You cannot sell the audiobook anywhere else, not Kobo, not Google Play, not your own website.

• You lose pricing control almost entirely.

Non-Exclusive

• ACX royalty drops to 25%, but you gain total freedom.

• You can:

  • Distribute with Findaway Voices

  • Sell direct via Shopify, Payhip, Gumroad, etc.

  • Get into library systems

  • Reach international listeners on platforms Audible doesn’t dominate

• More long-term earning potential when combined with promotions and wide-reaching retailers.

Best for authors who:

• Have an audience outside Amazon

• Want to sell direct or bundle audiobook + ebook

• Plan long-term global distribution

4. Which Should You Choose?

Here’s a fast decision guide:

Choose ACX Exclusive if:

• Audible/Amazon is your core market.

• You want a simple workflow with minimal maintenance.

• You’re not planning wide promotions or direct sales.

• You want the highest possible royalty from Audible.

Choose Voices by INaudio (Non-Exclusive) if:

• You want your audiobook everywhere.

• You want full control over pricing.

• You plan to run promos, discounts, or direct sales.

• You want to future-proof your distribution strategy.

• You want the option to use AI narration now or later.

There is no single “best” audiobook distribution platform, only the best platform for your publishing goals.

• If you want massive Audible visibility and higher ACX royalties, exclusive may work.

• If you want reach, flexibility, and long-term control, wide distribution through Findaway Voices is the stronger play.

As the audiobook landscape evolves, especially with Spotify entering aggressively, many authors are choosing non-exclusive paths to maximize reach and sales.