Audio Ad Requirements

Audio ad requirements define the technical and content specifications for advertising on streaming platforms and podcasts. Understanding these requirements helps musicians prepare audio creative that meets platform standards and delivers messages effectively.

What Are Audio Ad Requirements

Audio ad requirements encompass the technical specifications and content guidelines that audio advertising must meet. Technical specs include file format, duration, sample rate, bit depth, and loudness levels. Content guidelines address what can be said, how products should be represented, and what disclosures are required.

Audio advertising uniquely suits music promotion because it reaches listeners in a music-focused environment and allows artists to feature their actual songs. When someone listens to a Spotify ad showcasing a new track, they experience the music itself rather than just seeing promotional imagery.

For musicians, audio ad requirements present both technical and creative considerations. Technical compliance ensures ads play correctly without audio issues. Creative considerations affect how the limited duration communicates effectively while showcasing the music.

How Audio Ad Requirements Work

Duration requirements typically range from 15 to 30 seconds. Spotify Ad Studio accepts ads between 15 and 30 seconds, with 30 seconds being standard. Shorter formats exist on some platforms. The limited time requires focused messaging that captures attention quickly while featuring enough music to create impact.

File format specifications require MP3 or WAV files at 44.1kHz sample rate. Stereo format is standard, though mono may be accepted. Bit depth of 16-bit meets requirements for most platforms. These specifications match standard audio production outputs, so meeting requirements typically does not require special processing.

Loudness standards ensure audio ads play at appropriate volume relative to music content. Most platforms require ads to target -14 to -16 LUFS (Loudness Units relative to Full Scale). Ads that are too loud become jarring to listeners, while ads that are too quiet get lost. Proper loudness normalization using metering tools during production ensures compliance.

Content guidelines prohibit certain claims, require truthful representation, and may mandate disclosures. Audio ads cannot make false statements, must identify the advertiser, and should avoid offensive content. Platform-specific guidelines provide detailed requirements that vary based on territory and content type.

Key Considerations

• Music snippets should showcase the most compelling section of the song
• Voice-over, if used, should balance with music rather than competing
• Clear call to action tells listeners what to do next
• Production quality affects listener perception of the artist

Common Questions

How much of a song should be included in an audio ad?

In a 30-second audio ad, approximately 15-20 seconds of music time typically works well, leaving room for brief spoken content and clear call to action. The selected music portion should be the most recognizable and compelling section of the song, often the chorus or a distinctive hook. Some artists use instrumental sections under voice-over, then feature the full hook as the ad concludes. The goal is giving listeners enough music to understand and remember the sound.

Do musicians need professional voice-over for audio ads?

Professional voice-over is not required if the artist’s own voice effectively delivers the message. Many successful music audio ads feature the artist speaking directly to listeners, creating authenticity and personal connection. However, the speaking should be clear, confident, and well-recorded. Poor quality voice recording undermines the professional impression. Artists uncomfortable with voice-over can use text overlays in companion images while letting the music carry the audio portion.

Summary

Audio ad requirements for streaming platforms include duration limits of 15-30 seconds, file formats like MP3 or WAV at 44.1kHz, and loudness targets around -14 to -16 LUFS. Content guidelines ensure truthful, appropriate messaging. Musicians should feature compelling song sections while maintaining production quality that reflects well on their artistry.