NOTE: The majority of DSPs (including Instagram) do not accept custom sample start times and will automatically generate the samples instead – these cannot be customised.
A few DSPs (including TikTok, Beatport, and iTunes) allow us to send specific sample start times for your tracks. By default, if no start time is provided, we’ll set it to start at 33% of the track’s total length.
If you’d like to choose your own preview start time for the platforms that allow it:
- Tick the 'Custom Sample Start' box on the relevant Track Details page.
- Enter the start time in seconds (e.g. 150 = 02:30).
Please note that for Beatport, setting the start time to '0' will instead revert to their default preview logic, and the preview won't start at the very beginning of the track. Consider your start time, an effective sample might include one or more of the following:
- A build that then follows into the drop
- A section with catchy lyrics
- A section with repetitive strong beats
- Wobbly basslines