Music on hold file format standards

Overview

Bad MoH sounds crackly, clips, or violates licensing. Standardize formats so auto attendants behave.

Audio spec

• Mono 8 kHz µ-law WAV or vendor-specified format; normalize levels; no stereo unless platform explicitly supports.
• Loop-friendly editing—no abrupt clicks at seam; 30–120 second loops beat 3-hour files eating storage.

Licensing

Client must own performance rights or subscription for commercial tracks; suggest royalty-free libraries for risk-averse clients.

Upload workflow

Version files with MoH_YYYYMM_client.wav; test after hours; keep previous copy for instant rollback.

Speech + MoH

Ensure prompt volumes match MoH perceived loudness—users should not be startled by level jumps.

Documentation

Store license PDF + purchase order with the KB article link for audit trails.