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How do I slow down Audible reading?

Published in Audible Playback 3 mins read

To slow down the reading speed in the Audible app, simply access the playback settings and select a slower speed option.

Adjusting Audible Playback Speed

Listening to audiobooks at a comfortable pace can significantly enhance your experience, especially when you're focusing on complex narratives, learning a new language, or simply prefer a more relaxed listening rhythm. Audible provides easy-to-use controls to adjust the narration speed to your preference.

Step-by-Step Guide to Slow Down Audible Reading

Slowing down the playback speed on Audible is a straightforward process, applicable across various devices running the Audible app.

  1. Open Your Player: Launch the Audible app on your smartphone, tablet, or compatible device and start playing the audiobook you wish to adjust.
  2. Select the Speed Icon: While your audiobook is playing, you'll see a 'Speed' icon on the player screen. This icon often displays the current playback speed (e.g., 1.00x, 1.25x). Tap on it to reveal the speed options.
  3. Choose Your Desired Setting: A menu will appear with various playback speed options. Select a setting below the standard 1.00x speed, such as 0.75x or 0.50x, to slow down the narration. You can experiment with different settings to find what feels most natural to you.

Why Adjust Playback Speed?

Adjusting the playback speed can significantly improve your listening experience for several reasons:

  • Better Comprehension: For intricate plots, technical subjects, or when you're easily distracted, a slower pace can aid understanding and retention.
  • Enjoyment of Narration: Some narrators speak very quickly; reducing the speed allows you to fully appreciate their performance and the author's prose.
  • Learning a New Language: If you're listening to an audiobook in a language you're learning, a slower speed can make it easier to follow pronunciation and vocabulary.
  • Accessibility: For listeners with certain auditory processing differences, slower speeds can greatly enhance the listening experience.

Common Playback Speed Options

Audible typically offers a range of speed options to suit different preferences. Here's a table of common settings you might encounter:

Speed Setting Description Ideal For
0.50x Half the normal speed Intensive study, learning new languages, accessibility
0.75x Three-quarters of the normal speed Detailed listening, complex content, relaxed pace
1.00x Standard playback speed General listening, comfortable for most
1.25x One and a quarter times normal speed Faster listening, catching up
1.50x One and a half times normal speed Quick review, speed listening

Note: Available speeds may vary slightly depending on your device and Audible app version.

Tips for Finding Your Ideal Speed

  • Experiment: Don't hesitate to try different settings. If 1.00x feels too fast, start at 0.75x and adjust from there.
  • Context Matters: You might prefer a slower speed for a dense historical non-fiction title but a slightly faster one for a light fiction novel.
  • Listen Actively: Pay attention to how well you're comprehending the content at different speeds. The ultimate goal is enjoyment and understanding, not just finishing the book quickly.

By taking advantage of Audible's playback speed options, you can tailor your listening experience to perfectly match your needs and preferences, ensuring you get the most out of every audiobook.

For more detailed information or troubleshooting, you can always visit the official Audible Help Center for comprehensive support.