TuneCore vs. RouteNote: Which is better?

As an independent artist, choosing the right music distribution platform is crucial for getting your music heard by the masses. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to decide which service to use. In this article, we'll compare two popular music distribution platforms, TuneCore and RouteNote, to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of TuneCore

TuneCore, founded in 2005, is one of the top music distribution companies globally. It allows artists to distribute their music on various digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and many more. TuneCore is known for its straightforward services and for providing artists with 100% of their royalties.

Features of TuneCore

• Distribution to over 150 digital stores and streaming platforms
• Complete control over your rights and royalties
• Access to monthly sales reports
• Promotion services including social media, playlist pitching, and more
• Publishing administration for songwriters

Overview of RouteNote

RouteNote, established in 2007, offers a different approach to music distribution. Artists can choose between a free model where RouteNote takes a commission and a premium model that allows artists to keep 100% of their royalties. RouteNote distributes music to major platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

Features of RouteNote

• Free and premium distribution models
• Access to a wide range of streaming platforms and digital stores
• Flexible pricing plans
• Detailed statistics and analytics
• Monetization options for YouTube and social media platforms

Comparing TuneCore and RouteNote

Cost

TuneCore charges a yearly fee for each album or single distributed, ensuring artists keep 100% of their royalties. On the other hand, RouteNote offers a free model where they take 15% commission on royalties, and a premium model for a yearly fee where artists retain all their earnings.

Ease of Use

Both TuneCore and RouteNote provide user-friendly interfaces for uploading and managing your music. However, artists often find TuneCore's dashboard more intuitive and streamlined, whereas RouteNote's interface can sometimes be a bit more complex but offers extensive data analytics.

Royalty Payouts

TuneCore pays out 100% of the royalties to artists after deducting the initial distribution fee. With RouteNote, if you opt for the free model, they take a 15% commission from your earnings. The premium service of RouteNote allows you to keep all your royalties after paying the subscription fee.

Distribution Reach

Both platforms offer extensive distribution networks, covering major streaming services and digital stores globally. TuneCore boasts over 150 digital partners, providing comprehensive reach. RouteNote also provides considerable reach but in a dual-model approach catering to different artist needs.

Support and Customer Service

TuneCore is known for efficient and responsive customer support, including a comprehensive help center and email support. RouteNote also provides good customer service, though response times can sometimes be slower due to the high volume of free accounts.

Choosing the Right Platform for You

Your choice between TuneCore and RouteNote will depend on your specific needs and financial considerations. If you are looking for a straightforward, professional service and willing to pay for annual distribution, TuneCore might be the ideal platform for you. However, if you are working with a tighter budget and prefer a flexible commission model initially with options to scale up, RouteNote can be a better fit.

To further explore a comprehensive music distribution service that combines the essential features of top platforms, consider SoundOn. SoundOn provides artists with marketing tools, distribution services, and the opportunity to reach new fans through exclusive partnerships, making it an excellent choice for serious musicians.