How to Add MP3 Audio Files in WordPress (2023 Guide)

Want to add MP3 audio files in WordPress? By sharing music, podcasts, interviews, and more audio content, you can boost engagement and create a richer experience for website visitors.

But what‘s the best way to add MP3 files in WordPress? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the top methods with code examples, tips from experts, and audio-focused best practices.

Why MP3s Are Critical for Modern WordPress Sites

Let‘s first look at why MP3 audio can be so impactful:

• 63% of people are auditory learners, so MP3s resonate with more visitors [1]
• Pages with embedded audio see 35% longer time-on-page versus non-audio pages [2]
• conversion rates can improve by over 25% by adding podcasts and audio content [3]

Whether you want to add a podcast series, share music samples, or provide spoken-word blog posts, MP3 audio aligns perfectly with WordPress.

Now let‘s compare how to add MP3 files using the built-in tools versus plugins.

Method 1: Use the Built-In Audio Block

The WordPress block editor includes an intuitive Audio block that supports MP3 uploads and embeds.

Pros:

• Requires no plugins
• Easy block settings for autoplay, preloading
• Embeds from streaming platforms like Spotify

Cons:

• Limited styling options
• Can‘t sell audio files
• No advanced player features

Best Practices:

• Avoid autoplay to prevent surprising visitors
• Preload audio for faster load times
• Optimize file sizes for mobile devices

To add an audio file:

// Upload MP3 Files
"file-url.mp3"

// Embed From Spotify
"https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/6xZtSEu4fOgS7qvMS16itd" 

The Audio block works great if you want quick setup with limited customization. Next let‘s see how plugins provide more advanced audio experiences.

Method 2: Install an Audio Player Plugin

Audio player plugins empower you to build immersive audio playback experiences.

Popular options like HTML5 Audio Player make it easy to showcase MP3s with stylish, customizable players.

Pros

• MP3 uploads instead of external embeds
• Playlist and queue features
• Greater design customization

Cons

• Increased complexity
• Potential licensing costs
• Site performance factors

Best Practices:

• Seek a lightweight plugin to avoid bloat
• Balance features and ease-of-use
• Leverage built-in Gutenberg blocks for simplicity

Here is sample code for adding an audio player powered by HTML5 Audio Player:

[h5p_audio mp3="my-file.mp3" title="Track Title" style="standard"]

For the best experience playing MP3 files, audio plugins are worth exploring. Next we‘ll see how Easy Digital Downloads can even let you sell audio content.

Method 3: Sell MP3 Files with Easy Digital Downloads

If your goal is to sell audio files like music, audiobooks podcast access, Easy Digital Downloads is purpose-built for the task.

Pros:

• Flexible audio pricing options
• Downloads delivered instantly
• Integrations with payment gateways

Cons:

• Additional configuration complexity
• Limited free version
• No physical product support

Best Practices:

• Offer both full songs and clip previews
• Bundle digital downloads for more value
• Promote samples via email or audio players

To create an MP3 download:

// Register Custom Post Type
function edd_register_download_post_type() {

  // arguments here

}
add_action( ‘init‘, ‘edd_register_download_post_type‘ );

Leveraging EDD for audio commerce unlocks new monetization potential.

Audio Method Comparison

Conclusion

Adding MP3 audio in WordPress provides measurable benefits for engagement and satisfaction. And with multiple effective methods available, you can pick the solution tailored to your audio needs, whether embedding free content or offering audio products for sale.

Hopefully this guide to the top practices for integrating MP3 audio gives you clarity on the path forward. Please drop a comment with any audio-related questions!