Tips on Making a Sound Effects Library

Due to the increase in video editing and viewing, sound effects have become an in-demand product. As a result, many sound designers may find it worthwhile to build a sound effects library from their recordings in order to make extra money. The following tips give an overview of the steps involved in making a useful library to sell online.

1. Using a mobile hand-held digital recorder, record a huge variety of 48k sample rate single hits and ambiances of all possible types.

2. Edit, normalize, filter, and eq these files in a digital audio workstation (DAW) to clean up the sounds and increase volume.

3. Create stereo 48k 24bit products if possible as distinct .wav files.

4. Assign each bounced file a SKU number containing 3 letters and 5 digits such as AAJ00001 Bird Chirp 1, AAJ00002 Rain1 and so on.

5. Make an excel sheet that includes file name, categories, sub-categories, SKU numbers, length, descriptions, keywords, and pricing.

6. Make different formats for all the files such as .mp3s based on 44.1k sample rate for web use and .aiffs for people who use Macs.

While any number of sound effects can be considered a library, no matter how small, aim for several thousand to generate enough hits and sales to make a financial impact on your life. Seek out as many online distributors as possible. With a little effort, one can find at least 10 to 15 online stores willing to host and market your products.