DistroKid vs UnitedMasters: Which is Best for You?

When it comes to music distribution, artists have several options to choose from. Two popular platforms among indie musicians are DistroKid and UnitedMasters. This article will provide a comprehensive comparison of these two services, focusing on their tax forms, distribution capabilities, and overall performance.

Understanding DistroKid Tax Form

As an artist, understanding the financial aspects of your music distribution is crucial. One important aspect is dealing with tax forms. DistroKid requires artists to complete certain tax forms depending on their country of residence and tax obligations.

For U.S. artists, DistroKid typically requires a completed W-9 form. This form is used to report income to the IRS and ensure proper tax withholding. For non-U.S. artists, a W-8BEN form is required to establish foreign status and claim tax treaty benefits if applicable.

DistroKid makes the tax form submission process relatively straightforward. Artists can upload their forms directly to their accounts on the platform, ensuring that their earnings are processed smoothly and in compliance with tax laws.

Distribution Capabilities

Both DistroKid and UnitedMasters offer extensive distribution capabilities, but there are key differences between them.

DistroKid: Known for its quick and affordable distribution services, DistroKid allows artists to upload and release an unlimited number of songs for a single annual fee. The platform distributes music to a wide array of digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.

DistroKid also offers additional promotional tools, such as pre-save campaigns and social media integrations, to help artists maximize their reach and engagement.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters focuses on providing artists with not only distribution services but also career development opportunities. The platform distributes music to major streaming platforms and offers personalized promotional strategies to help artists grow their fan base.

UnitedMasters also emphasizes brand partnerships, providing artists with the chance to collaborate with well-known brands and increase their visibility in the industry. This makes UnitedMasters an attractive option for artists seeking both distribution and promotional support.

Financial Considerations

Cost is an important factor for many artists when choosing a distribution platform. Here's a breakdown of the financial aspects of using DistroKid and UnitedMasters:

DistroKid: DistroKid offers a simple pricing model with an annual subscription fee, allowing artists to upload unlimited tracks. There are different tiers, with additional features available at higher price points. The platform does not take a percentage of the artist's earnings, allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters takes a different approach, offering a free tier with limited features and a premium subscription plan that provides enhanced distribution and promotional tools. Additionally, UnitedMasters takes a percentage of the artist's earnings, meaning that while there is no upfront cost, artists will share their royalties with the platform.

Platform Usability and Support

The usability of a distribution platform can greatly impact an artist's experience. Both DistroKid and UnitedMasters aim to provide user-friendly interfaces, but there are notable differences.

DistroKid: DistroKid prides itself on its easy-to-use platform, allowing artists to quickly upload and distribute their music. The interface is straightforward and designed to minimize the time and effort required from artists. DistroKid also offers responsive customer support to address any issues artists may encounter.

UnitedMasters: UnitedMasters offers a more feature-rich platform with additional tools and resources for artists. While this can be beneficial for artists seeking more comprehensive support, it may also mean a steeper learning curve. The platform provides detailed guides and resources to help artists navigate its features effectively.

Summary

Choosing between DistroKid and UnitedMasters depends on an artist's specific needs and priorities. If you are looking for an affordable and straightforward distribution service, DistroKid's annual subscription model and unlimited uploads make it an appealing choice. On the other hand, if you value additional promotional support and brand partnership opportunities, UnitedMasters may be the better fit for you.

Regardless of your choice, ensure you understand the tax form requirements and how each platform handles these obligations. With the right distribution partner, you can effectively share your music with the world and grow your career.

If you're considering an alternative that offers robust distribution services and promotional support through TikTok, be sure to check out SoundOn. SoundOn provides an all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution, helping artists build their careers and reach new fans.