Publishing Splits Calculator

About the Publishing Splits Calculator

Publishing royalties are split in multiple layers that can be confusing for independent artists. Audicient's Publishing Splits Calculator makes it clear: enter a revenue figure, choose the royalty type, and instantly see how the money flows — from the gross pool through publisher share, sub-publisher deduction, and down to each co-writer.

The calculator covers mechanical, performance (PRO), sync, and print royalties, each with their standard split ratios. It also includes a PRO reference guide listing major collecting societies worldwide.

What it does

  • Mechanical, performance, sync, and print royalties
  • Publisher / writer split visualised with bar chart
  • Sub-publisher retention adjustment
  • Up to 5 co-writers with custom percentages
  • PRO reference guide for 10 major collecting societies

Features

Four Royalty Types

Covers mechanical (streaming/downloads), performance (PRO/radio), sync (film/TV/ads), and print (sheet music) — each with its standard publisher/writer split.

Co-Writer Splits

Add up to 5 co-writers, assign percentage ownership, and see each writer's exact payout from the writer pool.

Sub-Publishing

Adjust how much of the publisher pool your publisher retains vs. what flows to a sub-publisher in another territory.

Frequently asked questions

What is a mechanical royalty?

A mechanical royalty is paid each time a song is reproduced — streamed, downloaded, or pressed to physical media. In the US it flows through the MLC for streaming.

What is a PRO?

A Performing Rights Organisation (PRO) collects performance royalties on your behalf when your music is broadcast on radio, TV, or played publicly. Examples: ASCAP, BMI, PRS.

Do I need a publisher?

No — artists can self-publish and collect their own publishing royalties. But signing with a publisher gives you access to pitch opportunities, licensing connections, and global collection networks.

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