DistroKid Splits vs. UnitedMasters

In the fast-evolving world of music distribution, finding the right platform to get your music out there can be overwhelming. Two leading choices for independent artists are DistroKid and UnitedMasters. In this article, we'll delve into the distinct features of DistroKid's splits and compare the services of DistroKid vs. UnitedMasters to help you make an informed decision.

Musicians need to understand the intricacies of the features offered by these platforms to select the right one for their career. This article will cover the DistroKid splits feature and provide a thorough comparison of UnitedMasters vs. DistroKid.

What is DistroKid Splits?

DistroKid has carved a niche for itself with its transparent and user-friendly platform. One of its standout features is the "splits" function. This feature allows artists to automatically divide royalties among collaborators. This function is especially useful for bands, producers, and any music projects involving multiple stakeholders.

With DistroKid Splits, setting up and managing royalty payments is seamless. Here's a breakdown of how the DistroKid splits feature works:

• Easy Setup: You can add collaborators and specify their percentages when you upload your music or at any time afterward.
• Automatic Payments: DistroKid automatically pays each collaborator directly, according to the assigned percentage. You don't need to handle any calculations or transactions yourself.
• Customizable Splits: You can easily change the split percentages or add/remove collaborators as often as you like.
• Transparency: Collaborators can view their earnings and payment history directly on their DistroKid dashboard.

UnitedMasters: An Overview

UnitedMasters is another prominent player in the music distribution industry. Unlike DistroKid, which operates on a subscription model, UnitedMasters offers a more traditional approach. UnitedMasters aims to provide independent artists with both distribution and opportunities for brand partnerships and placements.

Here are some features of UnitedMasters:

• Distribution: UnitedMasters distributes your music to major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal.
• Brand Partnerships: UnitedMasters connects artists with brands for potential collaborations, offering an additional revenue stream.
• Analytics: The platform provides detailed analytics to help artists track their performance and fan engagement.
• Revenue Collections: Artists can collect earnings from streaming, sales, and other forms of digital income.

DistroKid vs. UnitedMasters: A Comprehensive Comparison

Choosing between DistroKid and UnitedMasters requires careful consideration of their features, pricing models, and overall approach. Let's break down the key differences to help you decide.

Pricing

DistroKid: DistroKid operates on a subscription model, with a flat annual fee that allows unlimited uploads. This can be highly cost-effective for artists who release multiple tracks or albums each year.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters offers a free tier where they take a percentage of your earnings. Alternatively, you can opt for a Pro plan with a monthly fee, which allows artists to retain a higher share of their revenue.

Royalty Splits

DistroKid: The splits feature is one of the significant strengths of DistroKid. It automates royalty payments, ensuring transparency and efficiency in handling payments to collaborators.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters does not have an automated splits feature like DistroKid. Artists need to manage their royalty splits manually or through agreements outside the platform.

Distribution and Reach

DistroKid: DistroKid offers extensive distribution, covering major streaming services and social platforms. They also provide tools for quick and easy uploads.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters also provides broad distribution to top streaming services, with the added advantage of potential brand partnerships that can extend an artist's reach beyond traditional music channels.

User Experience

DistroKid: Known for its clean, straightforward interface, DistroKid makes uploading and managing music simple, even for those new to music distribution.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters also offers a user-friendly experience but is particularly appealing to artists looking to leverage brand partnerships and other promotional opportunities.

Conclusion: Which Platform Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between DistroKid and UnitedMasters depends on your specific needs as an artist. If you are looking for a platform that simplifies royalty splits and offers cost-effective, unlimited uploads, DistroKid is a strong contender. The DistroKid splits feature is a major advantage, ensuring that all collaborators are paid accurately and on time without extra effort on your part.

On the other hand, if you are interested in potential brand partnerships and are willing to navigate a different pricing model, UnitedMasters could be the right choice. The ability to connect with brands and access additional revenue streams may be particularly appealing.

As you consider your options, remember to think about your long-term goals and how each platform's features align with them. Both DistroKid and UnitedMasters have distinct strengths, but your choice should reflect what best supports your music career.

If you’re exploring more options in the realm of music distribution, consider signing up as a SoundOn artist. SoundOn offers global distribution services, exclusive partnerships, and a platform designed to propel your music career forward.