Audiobook production typically includes recording, editing, proofing, mastering, and quality control. (QC). We handle the full process from initial recording through final delivery, making sure your audiobook meets industry standards and is ready for distribution on platforms like ACX (Audible)

The short answer: Of course you can, but there’s a bit of a technical learning curve.

You don’t necessarily have to use a studio—but it does make a significant difference. While home setups can work, recording in a professional audiobook studio ensures consistent sound quality, fewer technical issues, and a smoother overall process. With engineer-supported sessions, you can focus on your performance while we handle the technical side. Your final audio will have to meet certain specs when uploaded to platforms, so if you’re recording at home, you’ll need to confirm that your final audio quality will meet those thresholds.

Punch-and-roll is a recording method where mistakes are corrected in real time during the session. Instead of stopping and fixing errors later, we roll back a few seconds, “punch in” and then pick up, “roll,” forward. This results in a cleaner recording and significantly reduces editing time in post-production. The alternative is what we’d call a “straight record,” which is a raw recording with all the mistakes and rerecords in the audio. Post-production for a straight record is much more involved and usually costs about twice as much.

Everyone’s favorite question. The cost to produce is directly tied to your word count (NOT the number of pages). Here are some numbers for you, which assume that you are both the author and narrator and that you’ll need production (studio time) and post-production (editing and mastering):

A 100,000-word book will have a total run time (TRT) of about 11.15 hrs (average reading rate is about 9k/hr)

Production/Recording time: 34 hours to record (an average of a 3:1 ratio of recording time to finished hours) at a studio rate of $120/hr = $4080

Post-Production: 11.15×115/pfh = $1282.25

Total for an author-narrator to record in-studio with post-production = $5362.25

If you decide to work with a professional narrator or don’t need time in the studio, these numbers will change.

As always, reach out via our Contact page to get a more accurate estimate.

Our services can include recording, editing, proofing, mastering, and one round of quality control (QC). We tailor each project based on your needs, whether you’re recording in-studio, working remotely, or bringing in pre-recorded audio.

WSS is located on the 3rd floor of the Clematis Building in downtown West Palm Beach. We are located within the 1909 coworking floor.

Our sessions are designed to be focused, efficient, and supportive. You’ll record in a professionally treated StudioBricks booth with an engineer (me!) guiding the session, managing levels, and handling pickups in real time.

Great question!

Audiobook engineers are the unsung heroes of our day. We manage audio levels, monitor for consistency, and handle punch-and-roll corrections in real time so the recording stays clean and efficient as you go.

Having an engineer also means small issues are caught immediately—things like mouth noise, pacing, mic distance, or subtle inconsistencies that can become much bigger problems in post-production. Addressing those in the moment not only improves the overall quality of the recording, but also significantly reduces editing time later on.

Most importantly, it allows you to stay focused on the performance. Instead of thinking about the technical side, you can stay present in the story, knowing that the recording is being captured properly and professionally from start to finish.

This depends on the length of the book and the recording style. On average, recording in a punch-and-roll workflow takes about 3 hours of studio time per finished hour of audio.

Yes, we can accommodate remote direction for authors, publishers, or producers who want to listen in and provide feedback during the session.

Congrats! You’ve finished recording your audiobook. Now what?

First, go celebrate. You’ve done a difficult thing. Now it’s totally up to me and my team to finish up the project.

Once recording is finished, the project moves into editing, proofing, and mastering. We clean up the audio, correct any remaining issues, and prepare the final files for delivery.

Quality control (QC) is the final review stage where we check for misreads, missing words, technical issues, and formatting consistency. This ensures the audiobook meets professional and platform-specific standards.

Some authors like to do their own QC (or have an assistant do it for them), and some folks have an engineer on my team do the QC. We offer QC-only services for $40/pfh.

YES! Unless otherwise another platform is specified in our final project proposal, all audiobooks are mastered to meet ACX specs.

Timelines vary depending on the length of the project, but most audiobooks move through post-production within about two weeks after recording is complete.

However, please know that we are a small (but mighty!) audiobook production house. Projects are usually booked at least 2 months in advance.

Here’s what you can expect when working with Whole Story Studio to produce your audiobook.

Pre-Production

• Finalize manuscript (clean, text-only version preferred)

• Confirm narrator (author or hired talent)

• Review tone, pacing, and any pronunciation notes

• Schedule recording sessions

• Set expectations with a short sample (“first 15”) if needed

Production (Recording)

• Record in a professional studio with engineer support

• Use punch-and-roll for efficient, clean takes

• Make real-time adjustments for pacing, clarity, and consistency

• Capture pickups as you go to minimize post-production work

Post-Production

• Edit for pacing, clarity, and technical cleanup

• Proof for accuracy (misreads, omissions, etc.)

• Master audio to meet ACX/Audible standards

• Complete quality control (QC) pass

• Deliver final files ready for upload and distribution

Whole Story Studio is located in downtown West Palm Beach, Florida, and serves authors, narrators, and publishers throughout South Florida and beyond.

Don’t live in the area? That’s okay! We regularly work with clients across the U.S. and internationally through remote recording, editing, and production services. We also have connections to local hotels and transportation options for those looking to visit the area.

Absolutely! Audiobook casting is one of my favorite parts of a project and we have an incredible roster of voice actors for your project.

Not a problem! Many of our clients are first-time audiobook creators. We guide you through the process step by step so you know what to expect at every stage.

Audiobook production is both an art and a science and an audiobook is far more than just the reading of text on a page.

A “good audiobook” is a combination of strong performance, clear and consistent audio, proper pacing, and attention to detail in editing and mastering all contribute to a high-quality audiobook.

My first question is always: Do you have a finalized manuscript?

If the answer is yes, then it’s game time!

Let’s be clear: At Whole Story Studio, we strongly advocate for human narration. Working with a skilled narrator and engineer in a professional recording environment results in a more authentic, engaging, and ultimately more successful audiobook.

That said, we are very aware of the realities of the world. There are evolving guidelines around disclosure, rights, and distribution when using AI-generated voices, which can affect where and how your audiobook is published. WSS does not offer advice or support for anyone looking to use AI voices. But best of luck to you!

While our core focus is on producing a high-quality audiobook, we understand that getting it in front of listeners is just as important. We’re happy to help you build a plan or connect you with the right resources depending on your goals.

Due to the insane number of robocalls and spam calls we receive, most unknown numbers are not answered. If you would like to chat on the phone, please leave a detailed voicemail about your project and I will return your call asap. Email and the website contact form will be your best options for getting in touch.

I’m a pleasure to work with. :)

In all seriousness, my goal is to make every client feel supported, comfortable, and confident throughout the entire process. Recording an audiobook can feel intimidating, so before you even step foot into my booth, I focus on creating an environment where you can settle in, find your rhythm, and stay connected to your voice. Simple things like having your favorite drinks or snacks in the studio really go a long way.

I don’t get caught up in overwhelming you with technical details or gear talk. That’s my job. What matters most is helping you deliver a strong, authentic performance while knowing the recording is being captured professionally.

In my studio, I work primarily with author-narrators, many of whom aren’t professional voice actors, so I offer guidance along the way—whether that’s pacing, clarity, or simply helping you feel more at ease behind the mic. So, bring your questions, your drink preferences, and your most comfortable recording socks.