How to Add Audible Books to Plex Media Server in 2025

Part 1. Can I Listen to Audible Audiobooks on Plex Media Server?

By default, Plex Media Server doesn't support Audible's protected AA or AAX audiobook formats. That's because these files are encrypted with DRM (Digital Rights Management), which limits their playback to Audible-approved devices or apps.

However, there's a solution. If you convert Audible audiobooks to a common audio format like MP3 or M4A, you can import them into Plex and stream them just like any other media file. To do this, you'll need a reliable Audible converter, which we'll introduce in the next section.

For more details about Plex supported format, please check for table below.

Part 2. How to Convert Audible Books to a Plex-Compatible Audio Format

To make Audible audiobooks compatible with Plex, you need to first remove DRM and convert them to a standard format. AudFree Audible Converter is one of the best tools for the job. It preserves original audio quality, chapter info, and ID3 tags.

Why does AudFree Audible Audiobook Converter Stand Out?

• Convert Audible audiobook to MP3, M4A or FLAC for Plex Media Server.
• Preserve ID3 tags of Audible audiobooks for Plex Media Server.
• Split Audible audiobooks into chapters, edit output parameters.
• Work at 100X faster speed and keep Audible audiobooks losslessly.

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How to Get Audible Audiobooks via AudFree Audible Converter

You can follow these three core steps to download Audible books to Plex-friendly formats, e.g. MP3.

Note: To convert entire Audible books, you need to purchase the full Audible Converter - the trial limits output to 1/3 per audiobook.

Step 1Download and launch AudFree Audible Converter

Download and install AudFree Audible Converter on your computer. Open the program, then you can drag and drop your downloaded Audible files into the main interface. Or you can also click the black 'Add' button on the top left to load files from your local folder.

Step 2Choose Output Settings

Click the 'Format' icon in the bottom-left and select MP3, or M4A as the output format. You can also customize parameters like bitrate, sample rate, audio channel, etc. Besides, AudFree Audible Converter allows you to spilt the Audible tracks into small parts and edit their title, album, artist, composer, etc. for better organization.

Step 3Download Audible for Plex Media Server

Press the 'Convert' button. AudFree will start removing DRM and converting your files to the selected format. Once finished, you'll find the converted audiobooks in the destination folder and can listen to Audible audiobooks offline forever.

Note: MP3 is widely compatible with all Plex clients, while M4A works best if you want to retain chapter information.

Part 3. How to Import and Stream Audible Audiobooks via Plex

Once your Audible audiobooks have been successfully converted to a Plex-compatible format like MP3 or M4A, the next step is to integrate them into your Plex Media Server. This allows you to centralize your audiobook library and stream it across all your devices - from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and web browsers.

Please follow these steps to properly import and stream your Audible audiobooks via Plex:

Phrase 1. Organize Your Local Converted Audible Audiobook Files

Before importing your audiobooks into Plex, it's essential to organize the converted files in a clean and structured manner. A properly organized folder not only helps Plex recognize and index your content correctly, but it also ensures smoother playback and better metadata matching.

To start, place all your converted Audible audiobooks into a dedicated folder - ideally named something e.g., /Audiobook/. Make sure each book is in its own subfolder, ideally named with the title and author, such as /Audiobook/FREE The Window Man - Louise Millar/. This structure will help Plex scan and categorize your content more effectively during library setup.

Phrase 2. Add Your Audible Audiobook Folder to Plex

Once your files are neatly organized, the next step is to add your Audible audiobooks to the Plex Media Server. This process enables Plex to recognize your audiobook library as a media source, scan its contents, and prepare it for streaming.

The key here is to create a new Music Library in Plex, which is best suited for handling audiobook files in MP3 or M4A format. You'll also need to select the correct media folder path and configure your library settings for optimal performance.

Follow the instructions below to complete the library setup:

Step 1. Open Plex and Access the Server Setup
Launch the Plex Media Player on your computer or preferred device. Make sure the Plex Media Server is installed and running within the app interface.

Step 2. Name Your Plex Server
Before creating a new library, you'll be prompted to name your server. Choose a recognizable name that makes it easy to identify across your devices, then proceed to the next step.

Step 3. Click "Add Library" to Create a New Media Section
On the main dashboard, click the "Add Library" button to begin setting up a new section specifically for your audiobooks.

Step 4. Choose Music as the Library Type and Name Your Audiobook Library
In the pop-up window, select "Music" as the library type since audiobooks are audio files. Then assign a custom name like "Audiobook" to distinguish it from your music collection, and click "Next" to continue.

Step 5. Select the Folder Containing Your Audiobooks
Under the "Add folders" screen, click "Browse for Media Folder". Navigate to the location where your converted and organized Audible files are stored, select that folder, and click "Add" to confirm.

Step 6. Finalize the Setup
After adding your folder, click "Next" on the following screen to proceed. Then, on the final setup screen, click "Done" to complete the process.

Once finished, Plex will scan and index your Audible audiobooks, making them available for streaming across all your connected devices.

Phrase 3. Streaming Your Audible Audiobooks on Plex

With your audiobook library successfully added to Plex, you're now ready to enjoy your content across all your devices. Plex will automatically index your files and make them available for playback through its intuitive interface.

Whether you're at home or on travelling, you can stream your Audible audiobooks using the Plex app on your mobile device, computer, or smart TV. You can also enhance your experience by adding artwork, editing metadata, or creating custom playlists.

Part 4. Tips to Enhance Your Audible Listening Experience on Plex

Now that your Audible audiobooks are available on Plex, it's time to take your listening experience to the next level. Plex offers several customization and advanced settings that can help you better manage, organize, and enjoy your audiobook collection.

Whether you're a casual listener or a dedicated audiobook enthusiast, optimizing your Plex library ensures better playback, easier navigation, and access from anywhere. In this section, we'll explore practical tips like editing metadata for clarity, organizing titles for logical sorting, adding high-quality artwork, and enabling remote access for on-the-go listening.

Let's dive into the best ways to enhance your Audible audiobook experience using Plex.

Tip 1. Edit Your Audiobook Library in Plex

To improve navigation and aesthetics, you can try:

• Rename metadata: Click the three-dot menu on a book and choose 'Edit' to update title, author, or genre.



• Add custom artwork: Drag an image into the artwork box or specify a URL for a high-quality cover.
• Group by author or series: Use album/artist tags or organize folders accordingly to maintain logical sorting.
• Stock track progress: This setting allows Plex to remember your listening position for seamless resuming in long audio files.

Tip 2. Enable Remote Access to Your Plex Audiobook Library

Want to listen to Audible books on the go? Enable remote access:

Step 1. Access Settings: Open the Plex Media Player on your server computer. Click the wrench icon (top-right), select your server in the sidebar, then choose Remote Access under Settings.

Step 2. Enable Remote Access: Ensure server login and click 'Enable Remote Access'. Please remember that Plex auto-configures via UPnP/NAT-PMP. A successful setup shows a green 'Fully accessible outside your network' status. (Works for most users.)

Step 3. Manual Port Forwarding (If Needed): If auto-setup fails, Forward port 32400 to your server's local IP in router settings. Please consult the Plex support guides for specific instructions.

FYI: Remote Streaming (Setting Up Remote Access)

FYI: Requirements for Remote Playback of Personal Media

Step 4. Stream Remotely: Once "Fully accessible" appears, access your library through Plex apps or audiobook players (Prologue/Chronicle) on mobile devices using your Plex account.

Tip 3. Use Third-Party Audiobook Players for a Better Plex Experience

While Plex and the Plexamp app offer basic playback features, they aren't specifically designed for audiobooks. For the ultimate listening experience, consider using third-party audiobook apps that connect directly to your Plex Media Server. These apps are tailored for long-form audio and offer a range of features like adjustable playback speed, sleep timers, bookmarking, and chapter navigation, making them perfect for audiobook consumption.

Here are some top recommendations based on your device:

For iOS users:

Prologue is widely regarded as the gold standard. It provides a sleek, intuitive interface, seamless integration with Plex, and audiobook-specific features that make listening effortless and enjoyable.

For Android users:

Chronicle and Bookcamp are both excellent choices. They support direct Plex integration and bring features like persistent playback position, library syncing, and a chapter-friendly UI.

In Summary

Although Audible and Plex don't natively integrate, you can still stream your Audible audiobooks through Plex by obtaining Audible downloads to Plex-compatible using a tool like AudFree Audible Converter. Once converted, importing them into Plex is straightforward. Additionally, with the right adjustments, you can create a fully functional, customizable audiobook streaming system.

Now you can enjoy your favorite Audible titles anywhere, anytime, directly through your personal Plex Media Server.