The Biggest Misconceptions About Audiobook Production (That Could Cost You)

Many authors underestimate what it takes to create a high-quality audiobook. Without the right knowledge, it’s easy to make costly mistakes or end up with a final product that doesn’t meet industry standards. Here are the most common misconceptions—along with the reality behind them.

"I don’t need an audiobook."

Reality: In 2025, you absolutely do. Audiobooks aren’t a luxury or an afterthought—they’re one of the fastest-growing ways people consume books. If you skip an audiobook version, you’re leaving a significant audience (and revenue) on the table.

"AI narration is good enough."

Reality: AI narration has improved, but it’s still nowhere near replacing a real human narrator—especially for long-form content. AI voices often sound robotic, struggle with emotional nuance, and fail to hold listeners’ attention. If engagement matters, human narration is the only real option.

"Audiobook production is quick and easy."

Reality: It’s not. Producing a professional-quality audiobook involves a multistep process that includes recording, editing, mastering, and quality control. Rushing or skipping steps results in poor sound quality, distracting mistakes, and potential distribution rejections.

"I can record at home with my podcast mic."

Reality: Home setups rarely meet the strict audio requirements of major audiobook platforms. Poor acoustics, background noise, and improper microphone use can all result in an audiobook that sounds unprofessional—or worse, one that gets rejected by distributors. Professional studios exist for a reason: They ensure the highest possible audio quality.

"You just record and release."

Reality: There’s a lot more to it than simply reading into a microphone. Proper audiobook production includes:

• postproduction editing to remove mistakes, mouth noises, and inconsistencies.
• mastering to ensure volume levels, clarity, and overall sound quality meet industry standards.
• quality control to catch any errors before distribution.

How Scribe Media Ensures a Flawless Audiobook Production Process

The result? An audiobook that sounds amazing, engages listeners, and meets every industry standard—without the headaches of doing it alone.