Ditto Music Review: Pricing, Features, and What Artists Should Know

Key Takeaways

• Ditto Music offers unlimited distribution for a flat annual fee, with plans starting at £19 per year and zero commission on royalties.

• Artists retain 100% of their royalties, with no hidden fees and transparent pricing across all plans.

• The platform provides user-friendly tools like auto-split royalties, SmartLinks, detailed streaming analytics, and easy collaborator management.

• Standard release processing times exceed two weeks, but expedited options are available for an extra fee.

• Ditto is cost-effective for frequent releasers but has slower release processing and support compared to DistroKid and CD Baby.

What Is Ditto Music and How Does It Work?

Ditto Music is a digital distribution platform designed to help artists release their music globally across more than 160 streaming and download services, including Spotify, iTunes, and Amazon.

Through Ditto Music, artists can distribute unlimited tracks for a flat annual fee, starting at £19 for independent creators, with upgraded tiers for professionals and record labels. A key feature is that artists retain 100% of their royalties, with no hidden fees or commission deductions.

The user experience is streamlined: account setup is straightforward, and the platform offers an intuitive interface for uploading music, managing releases, and adding metadata. Additionally, Ditto Music leverages digital distribution to ensure that artists can reach a wider audience efficiently.

Ditto Music also provides promotional resources, such as pre-release options and possibilities for playlist placement, helping artists increase their music’s reach and visibility on digital platforms.

Who Should Use Ditto Music for Distribution?

For independent musicians seeking a straightforward, cost-effective solution for global music distribution, Ditto Music offers a compelling option. The platform is particularly suited to artists who release at least eight songs annually and want to retain 100% of their royalties, as Ditto does not charge commission fees. Its affordable annual pricing for unlimited releases appeals to those prioritising budget-friendly distribution. Ditto Music’s user-friendly interface and features such as collaborator splits and SmartLinks make it attractive for artists who appreciate intuitive tools and standard functionalities. However, those who require rapid release processing may find Ditto’s typically longer turnaround times less appealing. Additionally, Ditto provides robust options for musicians interested in establishing independent record labels, making it a versatile choice within the music distribution arena. Moreover, Ditto Music's pricing structure aligns with DistroKid's Musician Plan, providing an affordable annual fee for unlimited distribution.

How Much Does Ditto Music Cost Annually?

Ditto Music offers three annual pricing tiers, each designed according to how much music an artist or label intends to release.

The Starter Plan is £19 per year, supporting unlimited releases for one artist while allowing them to keep 100% of their royalties.

For those managing multiple artists, the Pro Plan costs £29 annually and includes extra features suitable for growing teams.

Larger operations and record labels can choose the Label Plan at £69 per year, which covers unlimited releases across multiple acts.

All subscriptions include distribution to more than 150 platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok, with no hidden fees or charges, making costs clear and predictable for users. Additionally, the platform provides transparent commission structures to ensure artists understand their earnings potential.

Which Artist Tools and Features Does Ditto Provide?

While many distribution platforms focus solely on getting music onto streaming services, Ditto Music distinguishes itself by equipping artists with a suite of integrated tools designed to streamline both creative and business processes.

Among these artist tools is an auto-split royalty feature, enabling seamless sharing of earnings with collaborators without incurring extra fees. Ditto Music also enhances promotion through its SmartLinks feature, allowing easy music sharing across social media channels.

Artists benefit from performance insights, including detailed streaming statistics and audience demographics, accessible directly within their Ditto account. Additionally, the platform supports precise control over release timing with Timed Releases.

The Ditto app further empowers artists by providing real-time statistics and fast royalty withdrawals, making the management of both creative output and revenue efficient and transparent. This comprehensive approach mirrors the analytics tools that allow artists to decode listener behaviour and optimise engagement strategies.

How Does Unlimited Distribution Work With Ditto?

Beyond its suite of artist tools, Ditto Music’s approach to unlimited distribution stands out for its simplicity and value. For a flat annual fee starting at £19, independent artists can release unlimited singles, EPs, and albums throughout the year, without incurring extra charges per release.

This model is especially attractive to prolific musicians or those experimenting with frequent releases. Ditto’s unlimited distribution also guarantees artists retain 100% of their royalties, maximising revenue from every stream or sale. The submission process is streamlined and user-friendly, offering flexibility and control over each release.

Key aspects of Ditto’s unlimited distribution include:

• Flat annual fee for unlimited releases

• Retain full royalties from sales and streams

• Customisable distribution store selection

• Quick submission and review process

• No additional costs per release

Moreover, artists benefit from transparency in data reporting, allowing them to track their earnings and understand the impact of their distribution choices on revenue potential.

Which Platforms and Stores Does Ditto Music Reach?

Ditto Music distributes to over 160 digital platforms, including prominent names like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and TikTok. This extensive reach guarantees that artists’ music is available on leading music platforms as well as emerging digital stores, broadening their audience base.

Artists using Ditto Music can also tailor their distribution by selecting specific stores and targeting geographic regions most relevant to their fanbase. This flexibility facilitates strategic releases to maximise engagement and performance in chosen markets.

In addition to standard distribution, Ditto offers promotional tools, such as pre-release options and access to curated in-house playlists, aimed at increasing visibility across various platforms. Understanding distribution deals is essential for artists to make informed choices about how their music is shared and promoted.

How Long Does Ditto Take to Release Your Music?

Music reaches streaming platforms through Ditto Music is a crucial factor for many artists planning their releases. The time between submission and the official release date can impact promotion and audience reach.

Ditto Music’s standard processing time generally exceeds two weeks, which can delay the availability of new tracks. This timeline may affect artists aiming for coordinated campaigns or pre-release submissions.

Several key details about Ditto’s release schedule include:

• Standard processing time is typically longer than two weeks.

• An expedited release option is available for a £40 fee, with a minimum of three days.

• Any changes to submitted release information can cause further delays.

• Longer processing times may hinder opportunities for pre-release activities.

• Planning the release date well in advance is strongly recommended for Ditto users. Additionally, understanding distribution agreements is vital to ensure a smooth release process.

Do You Keep 100% of Royalties With Ditto Music?

While timing is a significant factor in music distribution, another important consideration for artists is the share of royalties they receive.

When asking, do you keep 100% of royalties with Ditto Music?, the answer is yes. Artists using Ditto Music retain all of their royalties from music sales, with no commission fees or hidden charges deducted by the platform.

This model stands out compared to some other distributors that may take a percentage from artists’ earnings. Ditto Music operates on a flat annual fee structure—starting at £19 for independent artists—which covers unlimited releases.

This approach allows artists to set their own track pricing and maintain complete control and independence over their revenue. Artists benefit from transparency, as Ditto makes no deductions from sales. Additionally, understanding mechanical royalties is crucial for artists to maximise their earnings from various distribution channels.

How Do You Upload and Release Songs Using Ditto?

Getting music onto streaming platforms through Ditto involves a straightforward online submission process. To upload and release songs, artists begin by creating an account and selecting the "Create New" option, where they enter essential release details.

Ditto’s platform supports .wav files and requires complete metadata for every track. Artists can tailor releases as singles, EPs, or albums and may leverage the cascade release feature to group up to three songs. Submissions exceeding this grouping risk rejection.

Upon completion, artists review a confirmation screen, benefiting from unlimited releases included in their chosen subscription. For those needing faster distribution, an expedited release is available for an extra fee. Additionally, artists should ensure that their music files are in lossless formats (like WAV/FLAC) to maintain audio fidelity during the submission process.

The upload and release songs workflow is summarised below:

• Create account and select “Create New”

• Enter release details

• Upload .wav files and metadata

• Choose cascade release (if desired)

• Review and confirm submission

How Easy Is It to Split Royalties With Ditto?

Ditto Music streamlines royalty splitting by offering an auto-split feature that allows artists to set up payment allocations for each collaborator.

Collaborators can easily create free accounts to manage their share, making the setup straightforward for all parties.

This system simplifies managing royalties, especially for projects involving multiple contributors. Additionally, understanding performance royalties ensures that all collaborators receive fair compensation for their work.

Setting Up Auto-Splits

Many artists and collaborators benefit from an intuitive royalty management system, and Ditto Music’s auto-split feature delivers exactly that.

Setting up auto-splits is a straightforward process, designed to help users divide royalties with precision and ease. Artists simply assign predetermined percentages to each collaborator, and Ditto’s system automatically guarantees those shares are distributed accurately. This removes ambiguity from earnings and fosters trust among everyone involved.

The platform’s user-friendly interface streamlines the setup, making it suitable even for those new to digital music distribution.

Key aspects of Ditto Music’s auto-split functionality include:

• Seamless assignment of royalty percentages per collaborator.

• 100% payout of designated shares every cycle.

• Free collaborator account creation for managing earnings.

• Transparent, trackable royalty distributions.

• Quick and easy setup process within Ditto’s dashboard.

Managing Collaborator Accounts

While splitting royalties among collaborators can often be a complex process, Ditto Music streamlines this task through its dedicated collaborator accounts.

Managing collaborator accounts on Ditto is straightforward: artists can invite their collaborators to create free accounts, enabling each party to access and track their share of royalties independently.

The auto-split royalties feature guarantees that every collaborator automatically receives their correct share of earnings, minimising administrative burdens and potential disputes.

With fast and direct payouts, all parties receive 100% of their allocated split without delays.

Ditto’s Collab accounts provide transparency by allowing users to monitor royalty balances in real time.

How Responsive Is Ditto Music’s Customer Support?

How efficiently does Ditto Music address artist concerns through its customer support channels? Reports indicate that Ditto Music’s customer support response times are typically slower than those of major competitors like DistroKid. This can be an essential factor for artists who need quick resolutions to issues such as account access or information updates.

While Ditto offers a user-friendly platform, some users have noted frustration due to delayed replies from the support team. Although priority assistance is available, the results are inconsistent.

Artists should carefully weigh the importance of customer support responsiveness when evaluating Ditto Music as a distribution option.

• Generally slow response times compared to competitors

• Delays in resolving account-related questions

• Frustration reported over lack of prompt replies

• Priority support exists, but effectiveness varies

• Artists should consider support responsiveness in their decision

What Are the Main Advantages of Using Ditto Music?

One of Ditto Music’s primary strengths is its unlimited release capability for a flat annual fee, which appeals to artists seeking frequent distribution.

Additionally, musicians keep all their royalties, as the platform charges no commission on earnings.

These advantages make Ditto a compelling option for independent artists prioritising affordability and full revenue control.

Unlimited Release Capability

Many independent musicians find Ditto Music’s unlimited release capability to be a significant advantage, particularly for those who produce and distribute multiple tracks annually.

By offering unlimited releases for a flat annual fee starting at £19, Ditto Music enables artists to maximise their output without worrying about additional costs for every release. This feature is especially appealing to prolific creators and bands who want to maintain momentum and consistency in the digital marketplace.

Other benefits associated with Ditto Music’s unlimited release capability include:

• Cost-effective pricing structure for frequent releases

• No extra fees regardless of the number of tracks distributed

• Broad distribution to over 160 digital stores, including Spotify and Apple Music

• Streamlined, user-friendly release process

• Tools for managing multiple releases efficiently

This makes Ditto Music particularly suited for artists seeking scalability and simplicity.

Full Royalty Retention

A defining advantage of Ditto Music is its policy of full royalty retention, allowing artists to keep 100% of their earnings from music sales and streams without any commission deductions.

This model stands in contrast to traditional label contracts, where artists often lose a significant percentage of their income to intermediaries. By offering full royalty retention through a flat annual fee, Ditto eliminates hidden charges and enables artists to predict their income with greater accuracy.

The ability to release unlimited music under one fee further supports creative freedom and productivity, empowering artists to distribute singles, EPs, and albums without financial barriers.

Ultimately, full royalty retention fosters independence, giving artists the flexibility to reinvest in their projects and manage their careers on their own terms.

What Are the Drawbacks of Ditto Music?

Although Ditto Music is recognised for its affordable pricing and user-friendly interface, several notable drawbacks can impact the experience for artists.

One of the main concerns involves the release processing times, which frequently exceed two weeks. Such delays can hinder pre-release campaigns and disrupt time-sensitive schedules.

Artists who need to make changes after submission may face even longer wait times, further complicating their release strategy. Additionally, customer support is often cited as slow to respond, which can be frustrating for users needing timely assistance.

These issues may outweigh the cost benefits for those prioritising rapid distribution.

• Release processing times often exceed two weeks

• Delays increase if changes are made to submitted information

• Slow customer support response reported by users

• Longer processing times may not suit urgent releases

• Time-sensitive releases can be adversely affected

How Does Ditto Music Compare to DistroKid?

How do Ditto Music and DistroKid compare for independent artists seeking digital distribution?

Both distribution service options enable every artist to release unlimited music for an annual fee—Ditto Music starts at £19, while DistroKid’s pricing varies depending on the number of managed artists and additional features.

Each music platform allows artists to retain 100% of the royalties they earn, an essential factor for those seeking control over their income.

DistroKid is recognised for its rapid release times and responsive customer support, making it appealing for artists prioritising speed.

In contrast, Ditto Music offers more extensive promotional tools and a broader range of outlets to help promote your music across global music markets, though processing times are longer compared to DistroKid.

Should You Choose Ditto or CD Baby for Distribution?

When comparing Ditto and CD Baby, key differences emerge in pricing models, royalty retention, and included features.

Release speed and the range of platform tools also vary, affecting how quickly artists can publish music and access additional services.

These factors are central to deciding which distributor better suits an artist’s specific needs.

Pricing and Royalty Structure

Many independent artists compare Ditto Music and CD Baby primarily on the basis of pricing and royalty structure.

Ditto Music stands out by offering unlimited music releases for a flat annual fee of £19, allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties. Conversely, CD Baby’s pricing is structured around one-time fees per release—£9.95 for singles, £29 for albums—plus a 9% commission on digital royalties.

The choice between these platforms often hinges on an artist’s release volume and desired royalty retention. Key differences include:

• Ditto’s flat yearly fee versus CD Baby’s per-release payment.

• Ditto allows unlimited releases at no extra cost.

• CD Baby’s royalty structure includes a recurring 9% commission.

• Both platforms distribute to major streaming services.

• Ditto’s pricing favours frequent releasers.

Release Speed Comparison

While both Ditto Music and CD Baby offer broad distribution to major streaming platforms, their release speeds differ greatly.

Ditto Music typically requires over two weeks to process and release music, which is substantially slower than CD Baby’s standard turnaround of just a few days.

CD Baby further distinguishes itself by providing expedited release options, allowing artists to get their tracks live even faster.

For musicians keen to release music quickly or align with carefully timed campaigns, CD Baby’s reliability and speed are significant advantages.

In contrast, Ditto’s slower processing, combined with delayed support responses, can lead to missed opportunities, especially if changes to submissions are necessary.

Ultimately, those who prioritise fast, predictable release schedules may find CD Baby the superior choice for music distribution.

Platform Tools Overview

Beyond release speed, the choice between Ditto Music and CD Baby often comes down to the platform tools and pricing models each offers.

Ditto’s unlimited release plan at £19 per year, with no royalty cuts, stands out for independent artists aiming for frequent distribution. The app is the best for those seeking user-friendly features, including collaborator splits and SmartLinks, while Music Publishing services help maximise revenue.

Ditto may be the best place for artists wanting integrated promotional tools, though its longer processing times could be a drawback for some.

In contrast, CD Baby is known for its responsive customer support and faster release delivery.

• Unlimited releases with no royalty fees via Ditto

• Music Publishing options included

• User-friendly release management tools

• Robust promotional features

• Distribution to all major streaming platforms, including TikTok

How Does Ditto Music Stack Up Against Music Gateway?

How do Ditto Music and Music Gateway compare when it comes to distribution, features, and value for artists?

Ditto Music stands out by offering unlimited music releases for a flat annual fee, making it an attractive option for multiple artists seeking broad exposure. It distributes to over 200 outlets, surpassing Music Gateway’s reach, which focuses on major platforms.

Both services let artists keep 100% of their royalties, but Ditto Music’s additional features—such as in-house playlists and pre-release options—may benefit those aiming for the best promotional opportunities.

Conversely, Music Gateway emphasises cost-effectiveness with free distribution and extra perks like free mastering and sync licensing.

Faster support responses from Music Gateway may also enhance user experience, appealing to artists valuing immediate assistance.

How Can Independent Artists Start a Label With Ditto?

Independent artists can establish their own record label through Ditto Music by following a straightforward setup process and selecting from plan options starting at £199.

This platform includes essential features such as royalty retention, flexible distribution, and access to promotional tools.

The next section explores how these offerings support artists in managing and growing their labels.

Label Setup Process

For many aspiring artists seeking full control over their music, Ditto Music offers a straightforward label setup process requiring a one-time fee starting at £199.

Setting up a label through Ditto empowers independent musicians to manage their careers without intermediaries. After creating a Ditto account, artists can swiftly establish their label and access a suite of management tools. The process is user-friendly and designed to support newcomers and experienced artists alike.

Key steps and features include:

• Simple Ditto account registration for label management

• Distribution to over 200 music platforms for maximum reach

• Management of multiple artists under a single account

• Retention of 100% of royalties and commissions

• Access to sync licensing opportunities for additional exposure

This streamlined process allows independent artists to release and monetise music efficiently.

Pricing and Plan Options

Transparent pricing forms the foundation of Ditto Music’s appeal to emerging label owners.

The Ditto Music 2025 Company offers straightforward pricing and plan options, beginning at £199 for independent artists to start their own label. This entry-level fee includes access to distribution tools and services designed to support new labels.

The Starter Plan permits unlimited music releases for up to two artists, while the Pro Plan extends similar capabilities to three or more artists, accommodating growing rosters.

Importantly, artists retain 100% of their royalties, ensuring complete control and transparency over earnings. With no hidden fees, Ditto Music’s pricing and plan options allow users to clearly understand their commitments.

This approach supports independent artists seeking affordable, scalable solutions for launching and managing their own labels.

Essential Features Included

Building on its clear pricing structure, Ditto Music equips artists with a suite of features designed to streamline the process of launching and managing a record label. Independent artists can establish their own label for a starting fee of £199, gaining professional tools to oversee their music and business operations.

Key features focus on maximising control and transparency, especially regarding royalties and distribution. The platform guarantees that artists retain 100% of royalties from their music sales, allowing full ownership of earnings and rights.

Notable features include:

• Unlimited song releases for a single flat rate

• Extensive royalty tracking and management tools

• Automatic royalty splits for efficient collaborator payments

• Pitching tracks for TV and film sync licensing opportunities

• Access to additional industry tools for label growth and management

Does Ditto Music Have Any Hidden Fees?

When evaluating Ditto Music's fee structure, prospective users will find that the company operates without hidden charges. The platform is recognised for its transparent approach, charging a straightforward annual fee—£19 for the starter plan or £29 for the pro plan—covering unlimited music releases.

Unlike some competitors, Ditto Music does not deduct commissions from artists’ royalties; musicians retain 100% of all earnings generated from sales and streams. Distribution to over 200 outlets, including popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, is included at no extra cost.

Any optional services, such as expedited release or specialised features, are presented with clear, upfront pricing. This approach effectively minimises the risk of unexpected expenses, offering artists confidence in managing their distribution budgets.

What Promotional Tools Does Ditto Music Offer Artists?

Ditto Music equips artists with several promotional tools designed to boost visibility and engagement.

Key offerings include pre-release campaign capabilities, playlist placement opportunities, and the use of SmartLinks and promo cards for streamlined sharing.

These features help artists reach wider audiences and generate momentum for new releases.

Pre-Release Campaign Capabilities

Although competition in the music industry is intense, Ditto Music equips artists with a suite of pre-release campaign tools designed to maximise promotional impact.

These pre-release capabilities enable musicians to strategically plan and build momentum ahead of a song or album’s official launch. By scheduling releases in advance, artists can foster anticipation and engage their fanbase more effectively.

Ditto Music also delivers valuable insights and visibility enhancements that support artists throughout the pre-release period. Key features include:

• Advance release scheduling to generate anticipation among fans.

• Access to label chart services for tracking pre-release performance.

• Trending reports to analyse audience engagement before the release.

• Opportunities for inclusion in Ditto’s in-house playlists to boost visibility.

• Assistance with getting music videos on Vevo for expanded promotional reach.

Playlist Placement Opportunities

Building on its pre-release campaign capabilities, the platform extends promotional support through a range of playlist placement opportunities.

Ditto Music provides artists with access to in-house playlists, increasing their chances of being featured within popular collections on major streaming services. This exposure can considerably boost streams and audience engagement for emerging and established acts alike.

In addition, Ditto Music offers label chart services and trending reports, enabling users to monitor their progress and refine strategies for maximising the effectiveness of playlist placement opportunities.

The platform’s support also includes assistance with music video features on Vevo and certified YouTube monetisation, further broadening promotional reach.

These tools collectively strengthen an artist’s ability to gain visibility and capitalise on playlist placement opportunities within the digital music sphere.

SmartLinks and Promo Cards

Among the suite of promotional tools available to artists, free SmartLinks and Promo Cards stand out for their utility and accessibility. Ditto Music provides these features to empower independent artists in their marketing efforts without incurring additional expenses.

SmartLinks enable musicians to generate a single, customisable link that aggregates their music across various music stores, including Spotify Playlists and Apple Music, simplifying fan access. Promo Cards offer visually engaging assets for sharing releases on social media, enhancing visibility.

Key benefits include:

• Customisable SmartLinks for all major music stores

• Analytics to track link performance and audience engagement

• Promo Cards designed for social media marketing

• Easy integration with Spotify Playlists and Apple Music releases

• Free access for all Ditto Music users, supporting independent promotion

Is Ditto Music Safe and Trustworthy for Indie Artists?

How reliable is Ditto Music for independent artists seeking a secure distribution platform?

Ditto Music is widely regarded as a safe and trustworthy choice for indie artists. The platform allows musicians to retain 100% of their royalties, with no hidden fees or commissions, which fosters confidence and transparency.

Its flat annual fee for unlimited releases makes it a cost-effective solution, while the transparent pricing structure guarantees artists maintain control over their earnings.

Ditto Music’s extensive distribution network, reaching over 160 digital stores, further supports its appeal to independent musicians.

Although some users have experienced slower processing and support response times, the overall user experience is considered solid.

This reliability and transparency make Ditto Music a dependable platform for indie artists focused on secure music distribution.

Should You Use Ditto Music for Your Next Music Release?

For independent artists evaluating their next release strategy, Ditto Music presents a compelling option due to its affordable annual pricing and straightforward distribution process.

The platform’s £19 per year plan allows unlimited releases, with artists keeping 100% of their royalties—a significant advantage for those seeking maximum earnings. Ditto Music’s user-friendly interface and access to over 160 digital stores, including major platforms, makes it easy to reach a broad audience.

However, its processing times, often exceeding two weeks, may not suit artists with tight schedules or aggressive pre-release campaigns. Ditto also supports sync licensing opportunities, expanding potential revenue streams.

Key factors to take into account:

• Affordable unlimited releases

• Retain full royalties

• Access to sync licensing

• Simple collaborator splits

• Slow release processing times

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Disadvantages of Ditto Music?

Disadvantages of Ditto Music, according to artist feedback, include slower release processing times, delays when changes are made to submissions, and slow customer support response. These issues can negatively impact artists’ promotional opportunities and overall satisfaction with the service.

What Are Ditto Music’s Key Features?

Ditto Music’s key features include unlimited Distribution Options to over 160 platforms, retention of 100% royalties, collaborator revenue splits, SmartLinks for sharing, customisable track pricing, performance analytics, expedited release options, pre-release promotions, and access to curated in-house playlists.

Does Ditto Music Have Hidden Fees?

Ditto Music does not have hidden fees, operating on a transparent pricing model. Artists pay a flat annual fee, with all key features included and no commissions on royalties, ensuring complete clarity and trust in their service.

What Percentage Does Ditto Music Take?

Ditto Music takes 0% of artists’ royalties according to its royalty structure. Artists retain 100% of their music earnings from sales and streams, with only a flat annual fee required for unlimited releases, ensuring transparent, commission-free distribution.

Conclusion

Ditto Music offers independent artists a straightforward and affordable way to distribute their music globally. With annual flat-rate pricing, unlimited releases, and access to useful artist tools, Ditto is appealing for musicians seeking control and simplicity in their distribution. While some may desire more advanced promotional features, Ditto remains a reputable and transparent platform. Ultimately, for artists prioritising wide reach and ease of use, Ditto Music stands as a solid choice for managing and growing a music career.