TL;DR: Email caps out at 25MB, but audio projects often exceed 2GB. The best methods depend on your needs: WeTransfer or MASV for quick one-off transfers (free-$12/month), Dropbox or Google Drive for reliable cloud storage ($9.99/month for 2TB), or Feedtracks for audio-specific collaboration with timestamped feedback ($6.99/month for 100GB). Most professionals use a combination: cloud storage for backup + specialized tools for client sharing.
Why Email Fails for Audio Professionals
You’ve finished mastering a client’s album. The final WAV files total 1.8GB. You attach them to an email and hit send—only to watch Gmail reject the attachment with "File too large."
This scenario plays out thousands of times daily in studios worldwide. Email wasn’t designed for modern audio workflows, and its limitations force professionals to find better solutions.
The Email Problem:
- Gmail’s attachment limit: 25MB total per email
- Outlook’s limit: 20MB for most accounts, 34MB for Microsoft 365
- Apple Mail: 20MB limit
- Even "large file" workarounds compress quality or expire links
Why This Matters: A 3-minute song in uncompressed WAV format (24-bit/48kHz) is about 30MB. Add stems, alternate mixes, or a full album, and you’re easily over 500MB. That’s 20x email’s limit.
What You’ll Learn:
- The five best methods for sending large audio files professionally
- Detailed comparison of costs, features, and reliability
- Which solution fits your specific workflow
- How to choose between file transfer vs cloud storage vs collaboration platforms
- Real-world workflows from professional engineers
Understanding Your File Transfer Options
Before diving into specific tools, let’s clarify the three main approaches for sharing large audio files. Each serves different needs.
1. File Transfer Services (One-Time Sharing)
What they are: Upload files, get a shareable link that expires after a set period (7-30 days).
Best for:
- Quick delivery of final masters to clients
- One-off project submissions
- When clients don’t need long-term access
- Simple file drops without ongoing collaboration
Examples: WeTransfer, MASV, Filemail, SendAnywhere
Key limitation: Links expire. If clients lose the link or don’t download in time, you’ll need to resend.
2. Cloud Storage Platforms (Permanent Storage)
What they are: Store files in the cloud with permanent access until you delete them. Generate shareable links that don’t expire.
Best for:
- Long-term client access to deliverables
- Archiving projects
- Ongoing collaboration with multiple stakeholders
- Backup and redundancy
Examples: Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, iCloud
Key advantage: Files stay accessible indefinitely. Clients can download anytime without you resending.
3. Audio-Specific Collaboration Platforms
What they are: Platforms built specifically for audio professionals with features like waveform visualization, timestamped comments, and version control.
Best for:
- Getting client feedback on mixes
- Revision workflows with multiple versions
- Professional collaboration requiring precise comments
- Client review and approval processes
Examples: Feedtracks, Pibox, Splice, AudioMovers
Key advantage: Purpose-built for audio workflows. Clients can leave timestamped feedback directly on the waveform instead of writing vague emails.
The Hybrid Approach: Most professionals use multiple methods. Cloud storage for backup and archive, file transfer services for quick deliveries, and audio platforms for revision workflows.
File Transfer Services: WeTransfer, MASV, and Alternatives
File transfer services offer the simplest workflow: upload files, share a link, client downloads. No accounts required for recipients in most cases.
WeTransfer (Most Popular)
What makes it great: WeTransfer has become the industry default for simple file transfers. Clean interface, reliable delivery, and universal recognition mean clients already know how to use it.
Free tier:
- Up to 2GB per transfer
- Links expire after 7 days
- No account required for recipients
- Email notification when files are downloaded
Pro tier ($12/month or $120/year):
- Up to 200GB per transfer
- Links expire after 30 days (or 1 year on higher plans)
- Password protection
- Custom branding (your logo on download page)
- 1TB cloud storage included
Best use cases:
- Sending final masters to clients or distributors
- Quick stems delivery for mixing engineers
- When clients expect WeTransfer (industry standard)
Limitations:
- No feedback tools
- Links expire (even on paid plans)
- Not designed for ongoing collaboration
- No version history or organization
Real-world workflow: Mix engineer sends final master to client via WeTransfer. Client downloads within 7 days, approves, engineer archives project locally. Simple, fast, done.
MASV (Built for Media Professionals)
What makes it different: MASV was designed specifically for video and audio professionals who regularly send massive files (5GB+). It’s faster and more reliable for huge transfers than general-purpose services.
Pricing:
- $0.25 per GB downloaded (pay-as-you-go)
- Subscription: $49/month for 500GB transfers
- No file size limits (tested up to 15TB)
Key features:
- Accelerated transfer technology (faster than Dropbox for large files)
- Upload to cloud storage (integrate with Google Drive, Dropbox)
- No recipient account needed
- File integrity verification (ensures perfect transfers)
- Unlimited file size (seriously, unlimited)
Best use cases:
- Sending full multitrack sessions (2GB-10GB)
- Film score stems with video files
- High-resolution audio archives
- When speed matters for urgent deliveries
Limitations:
- Cost adds up for frequent use ($0.25/GB means a 10GB transfer costs $2.50)
- Links expire after 7 days on basic plan
- Overkill for small files under 500MB
When to choose MASV over WeTransfer: If you regularly send files over 2GB and need guaranteed fast delivery. The per-GB pricing makes sense for occasional large transfers, while the $49/month subscription works for regular use.
Other File Transfer Options
Filemail:
- Free: Up to 5GB per transfer
- Paid ($10/month): 50GB per transfer
- Simple, reliable, less known than WeTransfer
SendAnywhere:
- Free: Unlimited file size (but slower)
- Real-time transfer (no cloud storage, direct device-to-device)
- Works well for international transfers
Pro Tip: Most file transfer services compress files slightly during upload to speed delivery. For archival masters where bit-perfect accuracy matters, verify file integrity with checksums or use services like MASV that guarantee perfect transfers.
Cloud Storage Platforms: Dropbox, Google Drive, and Alternatives
Cloud storage offers permanent access, better organization, and backup benefits—but at a subscription cost.
Dropbox (Industry Standard for Reliability)
Dropbox remains the go-to for professional studios because of its superior sync reliability with large files.
Why professionals choose Dropbox:
- Sync reliability is unmatched (rarely corrupts audio files during upload)
- Selective sync (keep 500GB library in cloud, only download active projects)
- Version history: 30 days free, 180 days on paid plans
- Industry acceptance (clients already have it)
- Fast upload speeds for large files
Pricing:
- Free: 2GB storage
- Plus: $9.99/month for 2TB
- Professional: $16.58/month for 3TB + advanced features
How to share files:
- Upload files to Dropbox folder
- Right-click > Share > Create link
- Send link to client (doesn’t expire unless you delete the file)
- Client downloads, no Dropbox account required
Best use cases:
- Long-term client access to deliverables
- Backup and archival of all projects
- Sharing files with other studios who use Dropbox
- When sync reliability is critical
Limitations:
- No audio-specific features (no waveform visualization, no timestamped comments)
- Cost adds up if you need more than 2TB
- Feedback still happens over email
Google Drive (Best Value for Storage)
Google Drive offers similar capacity to Dropbox at the same price, with better integration into Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar).
Advantages:
- Massive file size support (up to 15TB per file)
- Best free tier (15GB vs Dropbox’s 2GB)
- Excellent search functionality
- Native integration with Google ecosystem
Pricing:
- Free: 15GB storage
- 100GB: $1.99/month
- 2TB: $9.99/month (Google One)
Best use cases:
- Budget-conscious producers needing substantial storage
- Teams already using Google Workspace
- Extremely large files (video + audio for film work)
Limitations:
- Slower sync speeds than Dropbox for very large files (2GB+)
- Some users report occasional sync conflicts
- No audio-specific features
OneDrive & iCloud
OneDrive:
- Best for Windows users with Microsoft 365 subscriptions (1TB included)
- Good integration with Microsoft ecosystem
- Less common in professional audio circles
iCloud:
- Best for Mac/iOS-only workflows
- 15GB single file size limit (problematic for large sessions)
- Not recommended for cross-platform collaboration
Bottom line: For professional audio work, Dropbox or Google Drive are the safest choices. OneDrive and iCloud work fine if you’re already invested in those ecosystems, but they’re less standard in the industry.
How to Use Cloud Storage for Client Delivery
Basic workflow:
-
Create a client folder structure:
ClientName_Project/ ├── Finals/ ├── Mixes/ └── Stems/ - Upload final deliverables
- Generate shareable link with appropriate permissions
- Send link to client via email
- Files remain accessible indefinitely
Pro workflow:
- Keep master archive in cloud storage
- Use version control for revisions
- Create separate folders per project
- Set expiration dates on links if needed (Dropbox Pro)
Stop Wrestling with Email Limits
Feedtracks handles large audio files with permanent storage, waveform playback, and timestamped feedback—all in one place.
Try Feedtracks Free →Audio-Specific Collaboration Platforms
While cloud storage and file transfer services work, they weren’t built for audio. Audio-specific platforms add features that transform the client feedback workflow.
Feedtracks (Built for Audio Collaboration)
What makes it different: Feedtracks isn’t just file storage—it’s designed for the entire client review and revision workflow.
Key features:
- Waveform commenting: Clients click directly on the waveform at 1:23 and type "vocal too loud here"
- Built-in audio player: No downloads required, plays in browser with waveform visualization
- Version history: Upload Mix_v1, Mix_v2, Mix_v3—all versions saved, easy to compare
- Permanent storage: Links never expire unless you delete the file
- Folder organization: Organize by client, project, or date
- Up to 5GB per file: Handles full multitrack bounces and stems
Pricing:
- Free: 1GB total storage
- Pro: $6.99/month for 100GB
- Premium: $12.99/month for 500GB
Why this changes the workflow:
Old way (painful):
- Upload mix to Dropbox
- Send link to client via email
- Client listens and emails back: "Vocals sound weird in the chorus"
- You: "Which chorus? What timestamp?"
- Back-and-forth continues…
Feedtracks way (fast):
- Upload mix to Feedtracks
- Share link
- Client clicks waveform at 1:23: "Vocal 2dB too loud"
- You see exact timestamp, fix immediately
- Upload new version—all feedback preserved
Best use cases:
- Mix revision workflows with clients
- Getting precise feedback from multiple stakeholders
- When clients need permanent access to files
- Professional collaboration requiring organization
Limitations:
- Smaller storage than Dropbox/Google Drive at equivalent price points
- Focused on audio (less useful for general file storage)
- Browser-based (no desktop sync app like Dropbox)
Pibox (Audio Feedback + Project Management)
What it offers: Pibox combines waveform feedback with project management features (tasks, notes, todos).
Key features:
- Waveform commenting with range selection
- Project management tools
- Playlist organization for A/B testing
- Team collaboration features
- Version control
Pricing: Starting at $19/month (varies by team size)
Best use cases:
- Studios managing multiple client projects
- Teams needing task management + audio review
- Complex productions with many moving parts
Limitation: More expensive than Feedtracks. The extra features are valuable if you need project management, but overkill for simple file sharing + feedback.
Splice (Cloud Backup + Collaboration)
What it offers: Splice started as a sample library and added DAW project collaboration. You can save DAW sessions to the cloud and share with collaborators.
Key features:
- Automatic DAW project backups
- Direct integration with Ableton, Logic, FL Studio, Pro Tools
- Version history (every save creates a version)
- 1M+ royalty-free samples included
- Collaborate on full project files
Pricing:
- Creator: $9.99/month (includes sample library)
- Creator+: $14.99/month (more samples + features)
Best use cases:
- Producers who want sample library + cloud backups
- Collaboration on full project files (not just bounces)
- Teams using the same DAW
Limitations:
- Collaboration requires both parties to have Splice accounts
- Primarily for production collaboration, not client delivery
- Less useful for simple "send a bounce, get feedback" workflows
Method Comparison: Which Should You Choose?
Let’s break down when to use each approach based on your specific needs.
| Method | Best For | File Size Limit | Link Expiry | Price | Client Feedback |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WeTransfer | Quick one-off transfers | 2GB free, 200GB paid | 7-30 days | Free - $12/mo | No |
| MASV | Huge files (5GB+), speed matters | Unlimited | 7 days | $0.25/GB or $49/mo | No |
| Dropbox | Professional reliability, backup | 2TB+ | Never (permanent) | $9.99/mo for 2TB | No |
| Google Drive | Best value, massive files | 15TB per file | Never (permanent) | $9.99/mo for 2TB | No |
| Feedtracks | Audio feedback + collaboration | 5GB per file | Never (permanent) | $6.99/mo for 100GB | Yes (waveform) |
| Pibox | Project management + audio review | Varies | Never | $19/mo+ | Yes (waveform) |
Decision Framework
Choose file transfer services (WeTransfer, MASV) if:
- You need quick delivery of final files
- Clients don’t need long-term access
- You prefer pay-per-use over subscriptions
- No feedback needed (final delivery only)
Choose cloud storage (Dropbox, Google Drive) if:
- You want permanent storage and backup
- You send files to clients frequently
- You need reliable sync across devices
- You’re archiving years of projects
Choose audio collaboration platforms (Feedtracks, Pibox) if:
- You regularly get feedback from clients
- You’re tired of vague email feedback
- You need precise timestamped comments
- You want better organization for audio projects
The hybrid approach (what most pros use):
- Dropbox or Google Drive for backup and archive
- Feedtracks for client review and feedback workflows
- WeTransfer for quick deliveries when needed
Total monthly cost: $15-20 for comprehensive coverage of all scenarios.
Step-by-Step Implementation Guide
Here’s the exact process for each method.
Using WeTransfer (Free or Paid)
Step 1: Go to wetransfer.com Step 2: Click "Add files" and select your audio files (up to 2GB free, 200GB paid) Step 3: Enter recipient’s email or click "Get transfer link" Step 4: Add message (optional): "Here are the final masters for your album" Step 5: Click "Transfer" Step 6: Copy link and send to client via email or messaging
Pro version adds:
- Password protection (protect sensitive client files)
- Custom branding (your logo on download page)
- Longer expiration (30 days instead of 7)
Using Dropbox for Client Delivery
Step 1: Upload files to Dropbox (via web, desktop app, or mobile)
Step 2: Organize in folders:
Clients/
└── ClientName_ProjectName/
├── Finals/
│ └── AlbumName_Mastered_24bit_48k.wav
└── Stems/
└── [all stem files]
Step 3: Right-click folder or file > Share > Create link Step 4: Choose permissions:
- "Anyone with link can view" (client can download but not edit)
- Or "Request access" for controlled sharing
Step 5: Copy link and send to client Step 6: Files remain accessible until you delete them
Pro tip: Use Dropbox’s "Request files" feature to create an upload link where clients can send you files without needing Dropbox accounts.
Using Feedtracks for Feedback Workflow
Step 1: Sign up at feedtracks.com (free 1GB plan available)
Step 2: Create a project:
- Click "New Project" or "Upload"
- Name it: "ClientName - ProjectName - Mixes"
Step 3: Upload your mix or stems (drag-and-drop or browse)
Step 4: Share with client:
- Click "Share" to generate link
- Send link via email
Step 5: Client reviews:
- Clicks link (no account required)
- Listens in-browser with waveform visualization
- Clicks waveform at exact timestamp to leave comment
Step 6: You receive feedback:
- See all comments with precise timestamps
- Play back comments to hear exactly what they’re referencing
- Upload revised version—all history preserved
Step 7: Repeat until approved
Real-world example: Mix engineer uploads Mix_v1. Client comments: "1:23 - vocal too loud, 2:15 - kick buried." Engineer fixes both, uploads Mix_v2. Client compares side-by-side, approves. Total time saved per revision: 30-60 minutes.
Best Practices and Common Mistakes
Choose the Right File Format and Quality
For final deliverables:
- Uncompressed WAV (24-bit/48kHz or 16-bit/44.1kHz)
- Never send MP3 for professional deliverables unless specifically requested
- Include both high-res (24-bit) and CD quality (16-bit) if client needs options
For client review/feedback:
- High-quality MP3 (320 kbps) or AAC (256 kbps) is acceptable
- Reduces file size from 30MB to 7MB per 3-minute song
- Faster uploads, easier for clients to stream
For stems:
- WAV format, same sample rate as original session
- All files start at bar 1, beat 1 (even if they don’t play until later)
-
Clear naming:
Kick.wav,Snare.wav,Lead_Vocal.wav
Organize Files Before Uploading
Clients shouldn’t have to guess what files are what. Organize clearly:
ClientName_ProjectName/
├── 01_Masters/
│ ├── Track01_SongName_Master_24bit.wav
│ ├── Track01_SongName_Master_16bit.wav
│ └── Track01_SongName_Master_MP3.mp3
├── 02_Stems/
│ └── Track01_SongName_Stems/
│ ├── Drums.wav
│ ├── Bass.wav
│ └── Vocals.wav
└── README.txt (include tempo, key, notes)
Include a README file with:
- Song title, tempo, key
- File format details (sample rate, bit depth)
- Any special instructions
- Your contact info
Compress Files Properly (When Needed)
For multiple files, create a ZIP archive:
- Right-click folder > Compress (Mac)
- Right-click folder > Send to > Compressed folder (Windows)
- This groups files and slightly reduces total size
Don’t compress audio files with lossy compression:
- ZIP/RAR are fine (lossless compression)
- Never use MP3/AAC compression for files that should be WAV
- Avoid online converters that degrade quality
Verify Upload Integrity
Before sending the link to clients:
- Download the file yourself and verify it plays correctly
- Check file size matches original
- Listen to a few seconds to confirm no corruption
For critical masters, use checksum verification (MD5 or SHA-256) to ensure bit-perfect transfer.
Include Context with Your Files
Don’t just send a link with "here are the files." Provide context:
Good email example:
Hi [Client],
Here are the final masters for [Project Name]:
- 24-bit/48kHz WAV (for archival)
- 16-bit/44.1kHz WAV (for CD pressing)
- 320 kbps MP3 (for streaming upload)
Link expires in 7 days, so please download soon. Files are also backed up in our archive.
Let me know if you have any questions or need alternate formats.
Best, [Your Name]
Better email (using Feedtracks or similar):
Hi [Client],
Mix v2 is ready for your review: [Feedtracks link]
I’ve addressed your notes from v1:
- Reduced vocal volume at 1:23
- Brought up kick at 2:15
- Added slight compression to bass throughout
Click anywhere on the waveform to leave timestamped comments. Link never expires.
Best, [Your Name]
Mistake #1: Using Email for Files Over 20MB
Why it’s wrong: Email caps out at 20-25MB. Even if you compress files, you’re wasting time and potentially degrading quality. Plus, many email servers reject large attachments silently—clients never get them.
Better approach: Use one of the methods above. WeTransfer’s free tier handles files up to 2GB instantly, and clients don’t need accounts.
Mistake #2: Not Checking Link Expiration
Why it’s wrong: You send a WeTransfer link with a 7-day expiration. Client goes on vacation, comes back on day 8, link is dead. You have to resend, wasting time.
Better approach:
- Use services with longer expiration (WeTransfer Pro: 30 days)
- Or use permanent storage (Dropbox, Google Drive, Feedtracks)
- For critical deliverables, confirm client downloaded before link expires
Mistake #3: Sending Unorganized ZIP Files
Why it’s wrong: Client downloads "Final_Project.zip," opens it, and finds 73 files with names like "Audio 1.wav," "Audio 2.wav," "final_FINAL_v3.wav." They have no idea what anything is.
Better approach: Organize files in clearly labeled folders with descriptive names. Include a README with instructions.
Mistake #4: Compressing WAV to MP3 to Make It "Smaller"
Why it’s wrong: Client asked for final masters. You send MP3 because "it’s easier to upload." Client uploads to streaming platforms—which apply another layer of compression to your already-compressed MP3. Double compression = degraded quality.
Better approach: Always send lossless formats (WAV, FLAC) for final deliverables. Use MP3/AAC only for client review and feedback rounds where they’re just listening, not distributing.
Mistake #5: No Backup After Sending
Why it’s wrong: You send files via WeTransfer, client downloads, you delete the project from your hard drive. Three months later, client lost the files and asks for them again. You have to recreate or dig through archives.
Better approach: Maintain a backup workflow:
- Send files to client via transfer service or cloud storage
- Archive project on external drive or cloud storage
- Keep for minimum 6-12 months (or indefinitely for important clients)
Real-World Workflow Example
Let’s walk through a complete workflow from mix to final delivery.
The Situation:
- Mix engineer finishing album for independent artist
- 10 tracks, full stems + masters
- Client is remote, needs to approve each mix
- Budget-conscious, wants permanent access
Phase 1: Mix Revisions (Using Feedtracks)
Week 1-3: Individual track mixing
- Engineer uploads Mix_v1 for Track 1 to Feedtracks
- Shares link with artist
- Artist listens, leaves timestamped comments: "1:23 - vocal too loud, 2:45 - add more reverb to snare"
- Engineer uploads Mix_v2 addressing feedback
- Artist compares v1 and v2, approves
- Repeat for all 10 tracks
Why Feedtracks for this phase:
- Precise feedback eliminates back-and-forth
- Version history keeps all mixes organized
- Permanent links mean artist can reference anytime
Phase 2: Mastering (Using WeTransfer)
Week 4: Mastering
- All mixes approved
- Engineer sends approved mixes to mastering engineer via WeTransfer (10 WAV files, ~300MB total)
- Mastering engineer downloads, masters album
- Sends masters back via WeTransfer
Why WeTransfer for this phase:
- Simple one-time transfer
- No ongoing collaboration needed
- Mastering engineer doesn’t need permanent access
Phase 3: Final Delivery (Using Dropbox)
Week 5: Final delivery to artist
-
Engineer creates organized folder structure in Dropbox:
ArtistName_AlbumName_Finals/ ├── Masters_24bit_48k/ │ └── [10 WAV files] ├── Masters_16bit_44k/ │ └── [10 WAV files] ├── Masters_MP3_320kbps/ │ └── [10 MP3 files] ├── Stems/ │ └── [folders per track] └── README.txt -
Shares Dropbox link with artist
-
Artist downloads all files
-
Files remain in Dropbox for artist’s permanent access
Why Dropbox for this phase:
- Permanent storage for both parties
- Artist can download again if they lose files
- Engineer has backup in Dropbox automatically
Total tools used: 3 (Feedtracks for revisions, WeTransfer for mastering, Dropbox for final delivery) Total cost: ~$17/month (Feedtracks Pro $6.99 + Dropbox Plus $9.99) Time saved: ~5-10 hours across the project from precise feedback
How Feedtracks Simplifies Client File Sharing
While multiple tools work, Feedtracks consolidates the most time-consuming part: the revision workflow.
What Feedtracks solves:
Problem 1: Vague feedback
- Old way: Client emails "the vocals sound off"
- Feedtracks way: Client clicks 1:23 on waveform "vocal 2dB too loud"
Problem 2: File organization chaos
- Old way: Mix_v1.wav, Mix_v2.wav, Mix_FINAL.wav scattered across emails
- Feedtracks way: All versions in one project, easy to compare
Problem 3: Lost files and expired links
- Old way: WeTransfer link expires, client asks for re-send 3 months later
- Feedtracks way: Files stored permanently, links never expire
Problem 4: Slow client review
- Old way: Client downloads 500MB file, opens DAW, listens, writes notes in email
- Feedtracks way: Client clicks link, listens in browser, comments on waveform instantly
Example workflow:
Traditional approach (5 hours total per project):
- Upload to Dropbox: 15 min
- Send email with link and instructions: 5 min
- Client downloads and listens: 20 min
- Client writes vague email feedback: 15 min
- You email back asking for clarification: 10 min
- Client responds with timestamps manually typed: 10 min
- You implement changes: 2 hours
- Upload new version, repeat cycle 2-3 times: 2+ hours
Feedtracks approach (2 hours total per project):
- Upload to Feedtracks: 10 min
- Share link: 1 min
- Client listens and leaves timestamped comments: 15 min
- You see exact feedback immediately: 1 min
- Implement changes: 1.5 hours
- Upload new version to same project: 5 min
- Client compares versions, approves: 10 min
Time saved: 3 hours per project
For a mix engineer working on 5 projects per month, that’s 15 hours saved—nearly 2 full workdays.
Try the Faster Way to Get Client Feedback
Upload audio, share link, receive precise waveform comments. See why engineers are switching to Feedtracks.
Start Free Trial →Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the fastest way to send a 2GB audio file?
MASV is technically fastest due to accelerated transfer technology, but WeTransfer Pro (up to 200GB) is more cost-effective for most users at $12/month. For permanent storage, Dropbox or Google Drive offer fast uploads with the added benefit of backup.
Quick comparison:
- MASV: ~$0.50 for 2GB transfer (pay-per-use)
- WeTransfer Pro: Unlimited 200GB transfers for $12/month
- Dropbox: $9.99/month for 2TB (permanent storage + backup)
Can I send audio files for free?
Yes. Several services offer generous free tiers:
- WeTransfer Free: 2GB per transfer, 7-day expiry
- Google Drive Free: 15GB total storage, permanent links
- Feedtracks Free: 1GB total storage, permanent access, waveform comments
- SendAnywhere: Unlimited size but slower speeds
For occasional use, free tiers work fine. For regular professional use, paid plans save time and add features.
How do I send files to clients who aren’t tech-savvy?
Use WeTransfer or Feedtracks—both require zero technical knowledge from recipients.
WeTransfer:
- You upload files
- You send link via email
- Client clicks link, clicks "Download"
- Files download automatically
Feedtracks:
- You upload files
- You send link
- Client clicks link
- Audio plays in browser (no download required)
- Client clicks waveform to leave comments
Both work on phones, tablets, and computers with no software installation. If your client can check email and click links, they can use these.
Should I compress audio files before sending?
For file organization: Yes (use ZIP)
- Compressing multiple files into a ZIP makes them easier to send as one package
- ZIP compression is lossless—doesn’t affect audio quality
For file size reduction: No (don’t convert WAV to MP3 for delivery)
- Never compress WAV to MP3 for final deliverables
- Only use MP3/AAC for client review/feedback rounds
- Always deliver finals as WAV, FLAC, or other lossless formats
Example:
- Good: Create ZIP archive of 10 WAV files for easier download
- Bad: Convert WAV to MP3 to make upload faster, sacrificing quality
What if my client loses the files I sent?
This is why permanent storage beats temporary file transfer services.
Prevention strategies:
- Use Dropbox, Google Drive, or Feedtracks (permanent links)
- Keep project backups for 6-12 months minimum
- Document deliveries in email with dates
- For critical projects, send files via two methods (e.g., WeTransfer + Dropbox backup)
If files are lost:
- Check your backup (external drive, cloud storage)
- Re-upload from archive to cloud storage
- Send new link to client
This is one reason professionals use Dropbox or Feedtracks for client deliverables—links don’t expire, and files remain accessible indefinitely.
How much does it cost to send large files regularly?
For 5 projects/month with 1-2GB per project:
Budget option (~$10/month):
- Google Drive 100GB ($1.99/month) for backup
- WeTransfer Free for deliveries (2GB limit)
- Email for feedback
Professional option (~$17/month):
- Dropbox Plus 2TB ($9.99/month) for backup and client sharing
- Feedtracks Pro 100GB ($6.99/month) for feedback workflows
Premium option (~$29/month):
- Dropbox Professional 3TB ($16.58/month)
- Feedtracks Premium 500GB ($12.99/month)
Most mix engineers and producers find the $15-20/month range hits the sweet spot: enough storage, professional tools, reliable service.
Advanced Techniques and Workflows
Batch Upload with Organized Folders
Instead of uploading files one at a time, create a complete folder structure locally, then upload the entire folder.
How it works:
-
Create folder structure on your computer:
ClientName_ProjectName/ ├── Finals/ ├── Stems/ └── Alts/ - Place all files in appropriate folders
- Upload entire parent folder to Dropbox, Google Drive, or Feedtracks
- Share single link to parent folder
Advantage: Client gets everything organized, downloads once, has perfect structure locally.
Streaming vs Download Links
Most platforms offer two sharing options:
Download link: Client must download file to listen Streaming link: Client can listen in-browser without downloading
When to use streaming:
- Client review and feedback (they don’t need the file permanently)
- Quick preview of rough mixes
- Saving client’s local storage space
When to use download:
- Final deliverables (client needs files permanently)
- Stems for further production
- Archival masters
Platforms with streaming:
- Feedtracks (built-in waveform player)
- Dropbox (preview in browser, then download if needed)
- Google Drive (preview available for audio files)
Automated Delivery with Webhooks
For high-volume studios, automate file delivery using Dropbox or Google Drive APIs.
How it works:
- DAW exports final mix to "Delivery" folder
- Automation script detects new file
- Script uploads to cloud storage
- Script emails client with link automatically
When to use it:
- High-volume mixing or mastering services
- Standardized delivery process
- Saving time on repetitive tasks
Tools needed:
- Zapier or similar automation platform
- Dropbox or Google Drive API access
- Basic scripting knowledge (or hire developer)
Summary and Next Steps
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ Email fails for files over 25MB—use dedicated file transfer services
- ✅ WeTransfer is best for quick one-time transfers (free up to 2GB)
- ✅ Dropbox/Google Drive excel at permanent storage and backup ($9.99/month for 2TB)
- ✅ Feedtracks transforms feedback workflows with waveform comments ($6.99/month for 100GB)
- ✅ Most professionals use a hybrid: cloud storage for backup + specialized tools for collaboration
- ✅ Always send lossless formats (WAV, FLAC) for final deliverables
- ✅ Organize files clearly before sharing—clients shouldn’t guess what files are what
Action Items:
-
Assess your current workflow
- [ ] How many clients do you send files to monthly?
- [ ] What’s your average file size per project?
- [ ] Do you need feedback tools or just delivery?
-
Choose your primary method
- [ ] For occasional transfers: Start with WeTransfer Free
- [ ] For regular use: Get Dropbox or Google Drive for backup + Feedtracks for feedback
- [ ] For huge files (5GB+): Try MASV pay-as-you-go
-
Set up your system this week
- [ ] Create account on chosen platform
- [ ] Create folder templates for client deliveries
- [ ] Test workflow with a non-critical project
- [ ] Document your process for consistency
-
Streamline client communication
- [ ] Create email templates for deliveries
- [ ] Include clear instructions for clients
- [ ] Set expectations on link expiration (if applicable)
- [ ] Keep backup archives for 6-12 months
The right file-sharing method saves hours per project and prevents client frustration. Start with free tiers, test the workflow, then invest in paid tools that match your volume and needs.
Related Articles
- Dropbox vs Google Drive vs Feedtracks for Audio Files
- Feedtracks vs WeTransfer: Which is Better for Audio Sharing?
- Audio File Formats Explained: WAV, FLAC, MP3, AAC, OGG
- Best Collaboration Tools for Music Producers
- How to Collaborate on Music Remotely: Complete Guide
About the Author: The Feedtracks team builds cloud storage and collaboration tools for audio professionals. We’re producers, engineers, and music makers who got tired of email attachment limits and built something better.
Last Updated: February 2026