FAQ
Below is a list of commonly asked questions from Prolific Arts Music users. Simply click on one of the questions below to see the answer, or select "Expand All" to see all questions and answers. Don't see your question or answer here? Use our Contact form to ask us a direct question.
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GENERAL / LICENSING
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What is Royalty Free Music?
Royalty Free Music is a term that simply means you pay a one time fee in return for a lifetime synchronization license. You then have the right to synchronize that piece of music as often as you like, on as many different productions as you like. For a more in depth explanation, please go to our
Defining royalty free music page.
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Once I have licensed music, what can I do with it? Are there any limitations?
Our standard synch license allows you to place the music in an unlimited number of audio and/or visual productions. You are not allowed to share, transfer, or sell the music. For a detailed description of your rights, please see our
Standard licensing agreement.
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Does your license allow me to use the music in a show that will be broadcast?
Absolutely. Unlike some production music libraries, we don't charge extra if you will be broadcasting the music. You will need to fill out a cue sheet and provide it to the broadcaster or to us. For more details on cue sheets, please visit our
Understanding cue sheets page.
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What is a cue sheet, and do I need to fill one out?
Cue sheets are a simple form that should be filled out when a song is used in in a broadcast production. There is no cost associated with a cue sheet. Click here to download a
blank cue sheet. For more details on cue sheets, please visit our
Understanding cue sheets page.
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What is a Mass Duplication License?
Our standard synch license allows you to manufacture (or duplicate) up to 2000 copies of any production containing our music regardless of whether the production is for sale or for promotional purposes. This would include items like videotapes, DVDs, Software, etc. If you will be manufacturing more than 2000 copies of any product, a mass duplication license will be needed.
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What are performance royalties?
Performance royalties are fees paid by broadcasters (networks, cable channels, etc.) to performing rights societies like Ascap and Bmi. These are rarely the responsibility of the producer or person utilizing the music. For more information, please visit our
Understanding performance royalties page.
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What is a direct performance license?
Although it is not common, there are some broadcasters who choose not to pay an annual performance license fee to "clear" music through Ascap or Bmi. In this case, they sometimes put the burden of "clearing" the music for performance back on the company producing the show. In this case, a direct performance license must be obtained from the publishing company who controls the music (in this case, the music library). For more information, please visit our
Direct performance licenses page.
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How quickly will I get my music?
Once you have established an account, and purchased credits or a subscription, you will have access to music immediately. You can download music just as soon as you decide which songs you need.
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Does the music I buy belong to me?
No, you do not actually own the music. What you have is a lifetime license to use the music in your productions.
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What is your return policy?
If you receive a file that is damaged in any way, we will gladly provide a replacement for you. Otherwise, because you already have the file on your hard drive, and you have been issued a license that cannot be revoked, all sales are final. We have provided full audio samples of all of our music, so you will know exactly what you are getting before you make your purchase.
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Can I use your music on a website?
Yes, but the music must be embedded in such a way that it cannot be lifted or downloaded from the website. Additionally the music should not be performed from beginning to end, in its entirety, unless there are additional audio elements mixed in such as Voice Over or the like.
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Are your audio files "broadcast quality"?
Downloadable songs from our site are offered in Wave files or MP3. Technically, only the Wave files are considered broadcast quality but our MP3s are set at the highest possible resolution and are virtually indistinguishable from Wave files. Our MP3 files take up roughly 1/4th the file size of a Wave file. Our physical CD's are industry standard redbook audio and are broadcast quality.
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What is the bit rate and resolution of your audio files?
Our downloadable MP3 files are 320 KBPS/44.1kHz.
Wave files are 16 bit/44.1kHz as are the physical audio CD's.
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I need a different file type than what you offer. How can I convert the files?
There are many programs and utilities that will convert files. We recommend Itunes software which is can be obtained at no cost at
http://www.apple.com/itunes/ In the Preferences menu, you can select which file type and resolution you would like to convert to. Itunes allows audio files to be converted to Wave, Aiff, MP3 and AAC ( MP4 ).
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Can I use your music in a video that will be on Youtube or a similar site?
Yes, this usage is allowed per our standard license agreement.
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Can I use your music for my "on hold" messaging?
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Do you accept purchase orders?
We do accept purchase orders for Government entities, educational facilities, and large corporations who need to work via the PO. Please call and speak to a customer service representative who will be happy to assist you.
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Do I need an account to license music here?
Yes. The music here is only available by purchasing pre-paid credits or a subscription. You are welcome to surf the site and listen to demos without an account, but you will need to establish an account before you can actually license any music.
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Can I share my account with my co-workers?
There are two levels of access available to your account if needed; a Primary Admin and a User Admin. The Primary Account Admin will have complete control/access over the account. They will be able to update usernames and passwords, company information, etc. The User admin will only have the ability to purchase music via the pre-paid credits and/or subscription.
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Should I buy credits or a subscription?
The subscription is a great option for those who use music every month and prefer to have a consistent, predictable budget for music. It's a great value without having to spend a lot up front. If your music usage is a bit sporadic, the pre-paid credits are a better option for you. You can buy as many or as few as you like to get the price that works best for you.
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What is the project manager and how does it work?
PRE-PAID CREDITS
SUBSCRIPTIONS
OTHER
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I need a piece of music specifically designed for my project. Do you do custom work?
Yes, if you need custom work done, we are happy to put our vast network of composers to work for you. Prices vary from project to project so you will need to call to discuss your needs. When looking for custom music, plan ahead. The more time you can give the composers, the better results you will get. We recommend at least 2 to 4 weeks.
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Is it safe to use my credit card on your site?
Yes. We understand your concerns and your need for security. We use a state of the art encryption processing system. Your credit card information is encrypted and goes directly to the credit card authorizing bank for processing. Your information is safe here.
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I am a musician/composer. Do you accept submissions?
Yes, we accept submissions on standard audio CDs or data CDs (16bit, 44.1K WAVs). Please include an email address. We will respond to ALL submissions by email only. Please do not call. Submissions should be sent to:
Prolific Arts, Inc.
Attn: Submissions
23 Royal Oaks
Denton, TX 76210
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If Justin Timberlake brought sexy back, who took it away to begin with?
Thom Yorke, Keith Richards, and Patty Smith. It was a team effort.
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