Sync and Master Usage Bundle Calculator

A sync licence fee grants permission to use the composition (lyrics, melody, etc.) in audiovisual media, such as films or ads. This is typically negotiated with the music publisher or composer. On the other hand, the master licence fee covers the use of the actual sound recording of the composition, which is usually controlled by the record label or the artist. Both licences are required when using pre-recorded music in visual media, and their costs are negotiated separately unless bundled.

The bundle discount rate is a percentage reduction applied when both the sync and master licences are negotiated together from the same rights holder. For example, if the sync fee is £1,000 and the master fee is £1,500, the total before discount is £2,500. A 10% bundle discount would reduce the total fee by £250, resulting in a bundled licence fee of £2,250. This discount incentivises rights holders to offer a combined package and simplifies negotiations for the licensee.

Several factors impact these fees, including the popularity of the song, the duration of its use, the type of media (e.g., film, TV, ad), the distribution scope (local, national, global), and the licensing term (e.g., one-time use, perpetuity). High-profile songs or artists typically command higher fees. Additionally, the intended use (e.g., background music vs. featured performance) can significantly affect the cost.

One common misconception is that bundling always guarantees the lowest possible cost. While bundling often provides discounts, this is only true when both rights are controlled by the same entity. If the sync and master rights are owned by different parties, bundling may not be possible, and separate negotiations are required. Another misconception is that bundling simplifies all licensing complexities—while it can streamline costs, you still need to ensure the agreement covers all intended uses and distribution channels.

While there is no universal standard, industry benchmarks can provide guidance. For independent artists, sync fees can range from £500 to £5,000, while master fees are often similar or slightly higher. For well-known songs or artists, fees can range from £10,000 to £100,000 or more per licence. Major advertising campaigns or feature films may command even higher fees. It's important to assess your project's budget and negotiate accordingly.

To optimise costs, consider negotiating both sync and master rights with the same rights holder to qualify for a bundle discount. Be clear about your intended use, distribution scope, and licensing term to avoid paying for unnecessary rights. If your budget is limited, consider licensing music from independent artists or royalty-free music libraries, which often provide more affordable options. Lastly, prepare to negotiate—rights holders may be willing to adjust fees based on your project's exposure or creative value.

Ensure the agreement specifies the exact rights granted, including sync and master usage, distribution channels, geographic scope, and duration of use. Verify whether the agreement covers all intended media formats (e.g., streaming, broadcast, theatrical release). Additionally, check for clauses related to renewal fees or adjustments for extended use. It's also wise to confirm that the discount rate and final bundled fee are clearly documented to avoid disputes later.

Failing to secure both licences can lead to significant legal and financial consequences. For example, using a song without a sync licence infringes on the songwriter's rights, while omitting a master licence infringes on the recording owner's rights. This can result in lawsuits, fines, or the removal of your content from distribution platforms. To avoid these risks, always ensure you have the necessary permissions for both the composition and the recording before using music in audiovisual media.