To upload your own audio messages to your IVR, Voicemail, or Call Queue system, your sound files must meet specific requirements to be accepted and play clearly.
This guide explains how to create compatible, professional-sounding files for your Hosted IPPBX environment.
Audio File Requirements (IVR, Voicemail, Call Queue)
Make sure every audio file you upload meets these minimum specifications:
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Mono channel
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8000Hz sample rate
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16-bit PCM encoding (for .wav or .au files)
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Recommended formats:
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.au(preferred) -
.mp3(smaller, good quality) -
.wav(works, but larger file size)
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✅ Tips for Best Results
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Use a quality microphone
Internal laptop mics often pick up background noise. If possible, use an external USB mic or record on your mobile phone using a voice recorder app that supports.mp3export. -
Keep it short and clear
Long audio files take up more space and may confuse callers. Speak clearly, at a steady pace, and avoid long silences or filler. -
Edit your recording
Remove unwanted parts and trim beginning/end silences. This improves professionalism and caller experience. -
Test before upload
Always listen to your file before uploading to make sure it plays as expected and at a good volume level.
Recommended Tool: Audacity
Audacity is a free, reliable audio editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Download it here
How to set properties in Audacity:
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Channels:
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Tracks > Mix > Mix Stereo Down to Mono
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Sample rate:
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Tracks > Resample > Set to 8000 Hz
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Export as AU (.au):
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File > Export > Export Audio > Choose "Other uncompressed files"
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Header: AU
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Encoding: U-law
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Export as MP3 (.mp3):
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File > Export > Export as MP3
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Bit rate mode: Constant
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Bit rate: 128 kbps
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Channel mode: Stereo (or Mono if preferred)
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Variable speed: Fast
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Example Command for Linux Users
To convert audio files in Linux using SoX (Sound eXchange):
Need Help or Want a Professional Voice?
We can help you get high-quality prompts in many languages, recorded by professional voice actors.
- Simply send us your script(s), and we’ll provide a competitive quote, it’s usually more affordable than expected.
- Contact us to request a custom voice prompt
This article applies to Voicemail, IVR (Auto Attendant), and Call Queue functions.
Other audio-driven features may support similar formats and specifications.
Last updated: 01/04/2025
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