Audio Branding Design Prompts¶

Comprehensive prompt templates for sonic identity, podcast production, audio UI, and sound design—with integrated visual branding for audio-visual assets

Created: February 2026 Tool: Nano Banana Pro / Audio Suite Related: Framework Overview | Video & Motion

Design System Configuration¶

# AUDIO BRANDING CONFIGURATION
# Inherits from parent: ./readme.md
# This configuration controls both sonic identity and visual elements of audio assets

audio_branding_config:
  schema_version: "2.0"
  parent_framework: "./readme.md"

  # Active visual variant for audio-visual assets
  active_variant: "{{ACTIVE_VARIANT}}"           # Inherits from parent

  # Visual layout for audio assets (podcast covers, audiograms, etc.)
  layout:
    grid_system: "{{GRID_STYLE}}"                # Inherits from parent
    frame_style: "{{FRAME_TYPE}}"                # Inherits from parent
    frame_opacity: 0.15

  # Audio-specific settings
  audio:
    sonic_variant: "professional"                 # professional | dramatic | technical
    energy_level: "medium"                        # low | medium | high | dynamic
    mood_profile: "confident"                     # confident | warm | urgent | calm

  # Visual-audio correlation
  variant_sonic_mapping:
    trusted_advisor:
      sonic_character: "refined"
      instrumentation: "acoustic_electronic_blend"
      tempo_range: "70-90 BPM"
    modern_partner:
      sonic_character: "warm"
      instrumentation: "organic_textures"
      tempo_range: "80-100 BPM"
    bold_challenger:
      sonic_character: "impactful"
      instrumentation: "bold_percussion"
      tempo_range: "90-110 BPM"
    cyber_shield:
      sonic_character: "dramatic_technical"
      instrumentation: "electronic_synthetic"
      tempo_range: "100-120 BPM"
    sentinel_guard:
      sonic_character: "futuristic"
      instrumentation: "ai_inspired_synthesis"
      tempo_range: "85-105 BPM"
    clean_developer:
      sonic_character: "precise"
      instrumentation: "minimal_clean"
      tempo_range: "75-95 BPM"
    creative_clay:
      sonic_character: "distinctive"
      instrumentation: "unique_textural"
      tempo_range: "85-105 BPM"
    blueprint_technical:
      sonic_character: "mechanical_precise"
      instrumentation: "industrial_electronic"
      tempo_range: "90-110 BPM"

Variant-to-Sonic Identity Translation¶

Understanding how visual variants translate to sonic characteristics ensures cohesive audio-visual branding.

Sonic Character by Variant¶

variant_sonic_profiles:
  trusted_advisor:
    description: "Professional stability, established expertise"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Refined, polished sound palette"
      - "Warm electronic tones with subtle acoustic touches"
      - "Reassuring, confident sonic signatures"
      - "Conservative dynamics—no jarring changes"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Clean synthesizers, warm pads"
      secondary: "Subtle piano accents, soft strings"
      percussion: "Gentle, precise rhythmic elements"
    mood_keywords: ["reliable", "grounded", "sophisticated"]

  modern_partner:
    description: "Collaborative warmth, progressive approach"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Approachable, human-centered sound"
      - "Organic textures with modern production"
      - "Flowing, welcoming audio transitions"
      - "Warm, enveloping sonic spaces"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Organic synth pads, gentle keys"
      secondary: "Nature-inspired textures, breath sounds"
      percussion: "Soft, flowing rhythms"
    mood_keywords: ["welcoming", "collaborative", "progressive"]

  bold_challenger:
    description: "Confident disruption, memorable impact"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Bold, distinctive sonic statements"
      - "High contrast between elements"
      - "Memorable, attention-grabbing signatures"
      - "Strategic use of silence for impact"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Strong bass, punchy synths"
      secondary: "Sharp transients, bold accents"
      percussion: "Impactful drums, decisive hits"
    mood_keywords: ["bold", "different", "decisive"]

  cyber_shield:
    description: "Security-focused, threat protection aesthetic"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Dramatic, tech-forward sound design"
      - "Electronic pulses and scan-like sounds"
      - "Alert-ready tonal elements"
      - "Command center atmosphere"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Digital synthesis, tech bleeps"
      secondary: "Low drones, tension builders"
      percussion: "Mechanical, precise rhythms"
      special: "Radar sweeps, data transmission sounds"
    mood_keywords: ["vigilant", "protective", "operational"]
    anti_patterns: ["soft", "casual", "playful"]

  sentinel_guard:
    description: "AI-powered defense, autonomous protection"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Futuristic, intelligent sound palette"
      - "Neural network-inspired textures"
      - "Flowing data stream atmospherics"
      - "Advanced, predictive sonic cues"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "AI-inspired synthesis, granular textures"
      secondary: "Evolving pads, morphing sounds"
      percussion: "Glitchy, intelligent rhythms"
      special: "Voice synthesis elements, data pulses"
    mood_keywords: ["intelligent", "autonomous", "futuristic"]

  clean_developer:
    description: "Developer-focused clarity, technical precision"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Clean, uncluttered sound design"
      - "Precise, well-defined sonic elements"
      - "Clear transitions without fuss"
      - "Documentation-quality audio clarity"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Pure tones, clean synthesis"
      secondary: "Minimal accents, precise clicks"
      percussion: "Subtle, refined rhythms"
    mood_keywords: ["clean", "precise", "professional"]

  creative_clay:
    description: "Distinctive creativity, memorable character"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Unique, instantly recognizable sounds"
      - "Playful-professional balance"
      - "3D-like sonic depth and texture"
      - "Bold yet approachable audio identity"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Unusual textures, organic synths"
      secondary: "Warm accents, surprising elements"
      percussion: "Distinctive, character-filled rhythms"
    mood_keywords: ["distinctive", "creative", "memorable"]

  blueprint_technical:
    description: "Engineering drawing aesthetic, precise mechanics"
    sonic_translation:
      - "Mechanical, precise sonic elements"
      - "Technical drawing-inspired sounds"
      - "Measured, calculated transitions"
      - "Industrial precision without harshness"
    instrumentation:
      primary: "Mechanical tones, technical bleeps"
      secondary: "Drawing/drafting sounds, rulers, clicks"
      percussion: "Metronomic, precise beats"
      special: "Blueprint unfold sounds, technical alerts"
    color_reference: "#1C1C1C + #F05023"
    mood_keywords: ["precise", "technical", "engineered"]

Audio Branding Philosophy¶

SBK audio elements must: - Reinforce brand identity through consistent sonic signatures - Feel professional and enterprise-appropriate - Enhance experiences without distraction - Maintain consistency across all audio touchpoints - Work across contexts from podcasts to UI sounds - Align with visual variant when paired with visual elements

Audio Anti-Patterns¶

Never create: - Overly aggressive or attention-grabbing sounds - Generic royalty-free music that feels cheap - Jarring or startling audio elements - Inconsistent sound design across touchpoints - Audio that overwhelms content or conversation

Sonic Logo & Identity¶

Sonic Logo (Audio Logo)¶

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting. Confident, trustworthy, modern, expert.

[ASSET: AUDIO - SONIC LOGO]
Primary audio brand signature.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Duration: 3-5 seconds.
Format: WAV (master), MP3 (distribution).
Sample rate: 48kHz minimum.
Bit depth: 24-bit master, 16-bit distribution.

[SONIC CHARACTERISTICS]
Mood: Confident, assured, professional.
Energy: Medium - not aggressive, not sleepy.
Tone: Modern but timeless.
Feel: Premium, trustworthy.

[INSTRUMENTATION DIRECTION]
Style: Electronic with organic touches.
Elements: Clean synths, subtle pads, precise percussion.
Avoid: Cheesy sound effects, dated synths.

[MUSICAL ELEMENTS]
Key: Major or modal (avoid minor/sad).
Tempo: Moderate (80-100 BPM feel).
Progression: Resolution/arrival feeling.
Dynamics: Build to confident finish.

[VARIATIONS NEEDED]
Full: Complete 3-5 second logo.
Short: 2 second stinger.
Transition: For segues.
Reversed: For outros.

[USAGE CONTEXTS]
Video intros/outros.
Podcast bookends.
Webinar transitions.
Hold music elements.
Presentation audio.

Variant-Specific Sonic Logos¶

When pairing audio with variant-specific visual content, consider these sonic adaptations.

sonic_logo_variants:
  # Default professional sound with variant-specific nuances

  trusted_advisor:
    base_character: "Refined, confident"
    instrumentation_shift: "Warmer pads, subtle acoustic elements"
    tempo_adjustment: "Standard (80-95 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Gentle resolution, reassuring finish"
    mood_alignment: "Established expertise, reliable quality"

  modern_partner:
    base_character: "Warm, collaborative"
    instrumentation_shift: "Organic textures, human touches"
    tempo_adjustment: "Slightly relaxed (75-90 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Breath-like transitions, welcoming tones"
    mood_alignment: "Partnership, approachability"

  bold_challenger:
    base_character: "Confident, distinctive"
    instrumentation_shift: "Stronger transients, bolder bass"
    tempo_adjustment: "Energetic (90-105 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Impactful hits, strategic silence"
    mood_alignment: "Disruption, differentiation"

  cyber_shield:
    base_character: "Dramatic, technical"
    instrumentation_shift: "Electronic synthesis, alert tones"
    tempo_adjustment: "Driving (100-115 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Scan sweeps, data transmission sounds, tension builders"
    mood_alignment: "Threat protection, vigilance"
    sonic_signature: "Alert-ready with protective resolve"

  sentinel_guard:
    base_character: "Futuristic, intelligent"
    instrumentation_shift: "AI-inspired synthesis, neural textures"
    tempo_adjustment: "Flowing (85-100 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Morphing tones, predictive pulses, data flow sounds"
    mood_alignment: "Autonomous protection, advanced intelligence"
    sonic_signature: "Intelligent surveillance with confident resolution"

  clean_developer:
    base_character: "Precise, minimal"
    instrumentation_shift: "Pure tones, clean synthesis"
    tempo_adjustment: "Measured (80-95 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Click accents, terminal-inspired sounds"
    mood_alignment: "Technical excellence, clarity"
    sonic_signature: "Documentation-quality precision"

  creative_clay:
    base_character: "Distinctive, memorable"
    instrumentation_shift: "Unique textures, unexpected elements"
    tempo_adjustment: "Dynamic (85-105 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Signature sound that's instantly recognizable"
    mood_alignment: "Creativity, bold professionalism"
    sonic_signature: "Playful-professional balance"

  blueprint_technical:
    base_character: "Mechanical, precise"
    instrumentation_shift: "Industrial electronic, measured beats"
    tempo_adjustment: "Metronomic (90-105 BPM feel)"
    special_elements: "Drafting sounds, ruler clicks, technical beeps"
    mood_alignment: "Engineering precision, calculated excellence"
    sonic_signature: "Technical drawing unfolding into sound"
    color_reference: "#1C1C1C + #F05023"

Brand Sound Palette¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - SOUND PALETTE]
Core sonic elements and textures.

[PALETTE ELEMENTS]
Tones:
  - Low foundation: Warm, grounding bass.
  - Mid presence: Clear, professional.
  - High accents: Crisp, not harsh.

Textures:
  - Ambient pad: Subtle background.
  - Rhythmic element: Modern, precise.
  - Transition swoosh: Clean movement.

[SIGNATURE SOUNDS]
Primary tone: A recognizable "SBK sound."
Accent sound: For highlights and emphasis.
Notification: Distinct but not jarring.
Confirmation: Positive, reassuring.

[MOOD BOARD AUDIO]
Reference tracks and sonic inspirations:
  - Modern tech brand sounds.
  - Premium product reveals.
  - Corporate but not dated.
  - Confident but approachable.

[AVOID]
Harsh frequencies.
Dated synth sounds (80s cheese).
Aggressive bass drops.
Overly complex arrangements.

Podcast Production¶

Podcast Intro/Outro¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - PODCAST INTRO]
Podcast opening sequence.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Duration: 15-30 seconds.
Format: WAV master, MP3 for production.
Loudness: -16 LUFS for podcasting.

[STRUCTURE - INTRO]
0-5s: Music bed begins, builds anticipation.
5-15s: Voice-over with show name, host.
15-25s: Music resolves, transitions to content.
25-30s: Fade under or clean cut to host.

[VOICE-OVER STYLE]
Tone: Warm, professional, inviting.
Delivery: Conversational, not announcer-y.
Content: Show name, host name, tagline.

[MUSIC DIRECTION]
Style: Modern, professional.
Energy: Medium, engaging.
Instrumentation: Electronic with warmth.
Mix: Supports voice, doesn't compete.

[OUTRO STRUCTURE]
0-5s: Music transition from content.
5-15s: Voice-over with CTA.
15-25s: Contact info, next episode.
25-30s: Music resolves, sonic logo.

[VARIATIONS]
Standard: Full intro.
Quick: Abbreviated for short episodes.
Teaser: For episode previews.

Episode Segments¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - PODCAST SEGMENTS]
Section transitions and markers.

[SEGMENT TRANSITIONS]
Purpose: Signal topic change.
Duration: 2-5 seconds.
Style: Clean, musical.
Consistency: Same throughout series.

[TYPES]
Main transition: Between major segments.
Quick hit: Minor topic shifts.
Guest intro: Special guest segments.
Q&A marker: Audience question sections.
Break: Sponsor/ad markers.

[DESIGN]
Related: To main theme music.
Distinct: Clearly signals change.
Brief: Doesn't waste listener time.
Mix level: Appropriate, not jarring.

Podcast Music Bed¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - PODCAST BED]
Background music for segments.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Duration: Loopable, any length.
Format: WAV master.
Mix: Designed for voice-over.

[TYPES]
Under voice: Very low, subtle.
Intro/outro: Fuller mix.
Transition: Brief, impactful.
Montage: More energy.

[MIX CONSIDERATIONS]
Frequency: Clear in voice frequencies.
Dynamics: Steady, predictable.
Loops: Seamless looping points.
Ducking: Designed to reduce further.

[VARIATIONS]
High energy: For exciting content.
Reflective: For serious topics.
Neutral: Standard background.

Podcast Cover Art Audio¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - PODCAST PROMO]
Audiogram and social audio clips.

[AUDIOGRAM SPECS]
Duration: 30-60 seconds.
Format: MP4 with waveform visual.
Audio: Highlight clip with music.

[STRUCTURE]
0-3s: Music + show branding.
3-50s: Content highlight.
50-60s: CTA + outro music.

[AUDIO TREATMENT]
EQ: Enhanced for mobile listening.
Compression: Consistent levels.
Music: Under content, supports.

Visual Elements for Audio Branding¶

Audio assets often require visual companions—podcast artwork, audiogram graphics, video podcast frames, and social media cards. This section provides parameterized visual templates that integrate with the design system variants.

Podcast Cover Art (Visual)¶

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting aesthetic. Trustworthy, expert, understated.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[GRID: {{layout.grid_system}}]
{{grid_frame_systems[layout.grid_system].description}}
Frame style: {{layout.frame_style}} at {{layout.frame_opacity}} opacity.

[ASSET: PODCAST COVER ART]
Square format podcast artwork for directory listings.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Dimensions: 3000x3000px (master), 1400x1400px (minimum).
Format: JPG or PNG, RGB color space.
Safe zone: 10% margin from edges for circular crops.
Text zone: Center 60% for title visibility at small sizes.

[COMPOSITION]
Background: {{active_variant.colors.background}} base.
Primary accent: {{active_variant.colors.primary}}.
Typography: {{active_variant.typography.heading_font}}.
Logo placement: Top-center or bottom-center, subtle.
Title: Large, readable at 150px display size.
Subtitle: Smaller, optional tagline or host name.

[VARIANT-SPECIFIC NOTES]
trusted_advisor: Conservative layout, subtle gradient, serif accents optional.
modern_partner: Warm tones, organic shapes, welcoming composition.
bold_challenger: High contrast, edge-anchored text, dramatic negative space.
cyber_shield: Dark background, red accents, technical grid overlay, glow effects.
sentinel_guard: Purple gradient background, neural pattern textures, AI-inspired shapes.
clean_developer: Minimal design, generous whitespace, code-like elements optional.
creative_clay: Bold shapes, blob backgrounds, distinctive typography.
blueprint_technical: Grid lines visible, engineering aesthetic, #F05023 accent on #1C1C1C.

[AVOID]
Busy backgrounds that compete with text.
Text that's unreadable at small sizes.
Stock photo feel or generic imagery.
Clashing colors outside the variant palette.

Audiogram Graphics¶

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting aesthetic. Trustworthy, expert, understated.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[ASSET: AUDIOGRAM - SOCIAL VIDEO]
Animated waveform graphics for social media audio clips.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Dimensions:
  - Square: 1080x1080px (Instagram, LinkedIn)
  - Portrait: 1080x1920px (Stories, Reels, TikTok)
  - Landscape: 1920x1080px (YouTube, Twitter)
Format: MP4, 30fps, H.264.
Duration: Match audio clip (typically 30-90 seconds).

[VISUAL STRUCTURE]
Background: {{active_variant.colors.background}}.
Waveform zone: Center 40% vertical space.
Waveform color: {{active_variant.colors.primary}}.
Waveform style: Bars | Line | Circular | Blob (match variant mood).
Show branding: Top or bottom 15%.
Captions zone: Lower third, if enabled.
Frame border: {{layout.frame_style}} if variant uses visible frames.

[WAVEFORM STYLES BY VARIANT]
trusted_advisor: Clean bar waveform, subtle animation, professional feel.
modern_partner: Organic flowing waveform, soft curves, warm colors.
bold_challenger: Sharp angular waveform, high contrast, impactful transitions.
cyber_shield: Technical waveform with scan line effect, red glow, grid overlay.
sentinel_guard: Neural network-style waveform, purple gradient, flowing particles.
clean_developer: Minimal line waveform, precise animation, clean transitions.
creative_clay: Blob-shaped waveform, playful movement, distinctive colors.
blueprint_technical: Grid-aligned waveform, mechanical movement, technical precision.

[CAPTIONS]
Font: {{active_variant.typography.body_font}}.
Size: 24-36px depending on format.
Background: Semi-transparent {{active_variant.colors.surface}}.
Color: {{active_variant.colors.text_primary}}.

[AVOID]
Distracting animations that compete with content.
Waveforms that obscure speaker identification.
Colors that clash with the variant palette.
Captions that are too small for mobile viewing.

Video Podcast Frames¶

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting aesthetic. Trustworthy, expert, understated.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[GRID: {{layout.grid_system}}]
{{grid_frame_systems[layout.grid_system].description}}

[ASSET: VIDEO PODCAST FRAME]
On-screen graphics package for video podcasts.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Dimensions: 1920x1080px (HD), 3840x2160px (4K).
Format: PNG with transparency for overlays.
Color space: RGB, sRGB profile.

[FRAME COMPONENTS]
Lower third:
  - Background: {{active_variant.colors.surface}} at 90% opacity.
  - Border: {{layout.frame_style}} using {{active_variant.colors.primary}}.
  - Name text: {{active_variant.typography.heading_font}}, {{active_variant.typography.heading_weight}}.
  - Title text: {{active_variant.typography.body_font}}, {{active_variant.colors.text_secondary}}.

Corner logo:
  - Position: Top-left or top-right, 5% margin.
  - Size: Maximum 120px height.
  - Opacity: 80-100%.

Topic card:
  - Background: {{active_variant.colors.primary}}.
  - Text: {{active_variant.colors.text_inverse}}.
  - Corner radius: {{active_variant.visual.border_radius}}.
  - Animation: Slide in from edge, subtle.

[VARIANT FRAME STYLES]
trusted_advisor: Subtle solid borders, conservative layout, minimal animation.
modern_partner: Rounded corners, warm tones, gentle fade transitions.
bold_challenger: Sharp edges, high contrast, impactful slide animations.
cyber_shield: Glowing borders, bracketed corners, scan line textures, alert-style animations.
sentinel_guard: Gradient borders, neural patterns, flowing transitions, AI-inspired effects.
clean_developer: Hairline borders, precise spacing, clean fade transitions.
creative_clay: Pill-shaped elements, blob accents, playful animations.
blueprint_technical: Grid-aligned elements, technical corner marks, mechanical transitions.

[AVOID]
Frames that obstruct speaker faces.
Overly busy graphics that distract from content.
Animations that cause accessibility issues.
Inconsistent styling across frame elements.

[SBK BRAND DNA]
Professional technology consulting aesthetic. Trustworthy, expert, understated.

[STYLE: {{active_variant.name}}]
{{active_variant.prompt_prefix}}

[ASSET: SOCIAL AUDIO CARD]
Static graphics promoting audio content on social platforms.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Dimensions:
  - LinkedIn: 1200x627px
  - Twitter: 1600x900px
  - Instagram: 1080x1080px
  - Facebook: 1200x630px
Format: JPG or PNG, RGB.

[LAYOUT STRUCTURE]
Grid: {{layout.grid_system}}.
Frame: {{layout.frame_style}} at {{layout.frame_opacity}}.
Background: {{active_variant.colors.background}}.

Content zones:
  - Headphone/audio icon: Visual audio indicator.
  - Episode title: Primary headline, {{active_variant.typography.heading_font}}.
  - Show name: Secondary, {{active_variant.typography.body_font}}.
  - Duration badge: Small indicator (e.g., "32 min").
  - Play prompt: CTA element (e.g., "Listen now" or play icon).

[VISUAL ELEMENTS]
Waveform graphic: Decorative element suggesting audio content.
Speaker photo: Optional, with brand-consistent treatment.
Quote pull: Highlighted text from episode, if applicable.

[VARIANT STYLING]
trusted_advisor: Clean layout, subtle waveform, professional photo treatment.
modern_partner: Warm accents, organic shapes, welcoming composition.
bold_challenger: High contrast quote pulls, dramatic typography, minimal imagery.
cyber_shield: Tech-inspired layout, glowing elements, dark background with red accents.
sentinel_guard: AI-themed graphics, purple gradients, futuristic elements.
clean_developer: Minimal design, code-inspired elements, clean typography.
creative_clay: Bold shapes, distinctive color blocking, memorable composition.
blueprint_technical: Grid-visible layout, technical aesthetic, #F05023 on #1C1C1C.

[AVOID]
Generic stock audio imagery.
Cluttered layouts with too much text.
Colors outside the active variant palette.
Play buttons that look clickable in static images.

Episode Artwork Variants¶

episode_artwork_variants:
  # Different visual treatments for episode-specific artwork

  standard:
    description: "Default episode artwork matching show identity"
    background: "{{active_variant.colors.background}}"
    treatment: "Consistent with main podcast cover"
    use_case: "Regular episodes"

  guest_feature:
    description: "Artwork highlighting guest appearance"
    background: "Gradient from {{active_variant.colors.primary}} to {{active_variant.colors.secondary}}"
    treatment: "Guest photo with brand-consistent overlay"
    use_case: "Interview episodes"

  series_edition:
    description: "Visual grouping for multi-part series"
    background: "{{active_variant.colors.surface}}"
    treatment: "Series identifier + episode number"
    use_case: "Multi-episode series"

  special_edition:
    description: "Distinctive artwork for special content"
    background: "{{active_variant.colors.accent}}"
    treatment: "Premium feel, enhanced design elements"
    use_case: "Season finales, special announcements"

  live_recording:
    description: "Artwork indicating live or event recording"
    background: "{{active_variant.colors.primary}}"
    treatment: "LIVE badge, event branding integration"
    use_case: "Live recordings, conference sessions"

grid_and_frame_recommendations:
  trusted_advisor:
    grid: "subtle_grid"
    frame: "frame_solid"
    notes: "Conservative, professional layouts"

  modern_partner:
    grid: "minimal_grid"
    frame: "frame_solid"
    notes: "Open, breathing layouts with organic flow"

  bold_challenger:
    grid: "structured_grid"
    frame: "frame_solid"
    notes: "Strong visual hierarchy, impactful composition"

  cyber_shield:
    grid: "cyber_grid"
    frame: "frame_glow"
    notes: "Technical overlays, scan lines, corner brackets"

  sentinel_guard:
    grid: "dashboard_grid"
    frame: "frame_gradient"
    notes: "Flowing tech aesthetic, purple glow borders"

  clean_developer:
    grid: "minimal_grid"
    frame: "frame_solid"
    notes: "Maximum whitespace, precise alignments"

  creative_clay:
    grid: "editorial_grid"
    frame: "frame_solid"
    notes: "Bold asymmetric, blob shapes, pill corners"

  blueprint_technical:
    grid: "technical_grid"
    frame: "frame_dashed"
    notes: "Engineering aesthetic, corner marks, dashed lines"

Webinar & Event Audio¶

Webinar Audio Package¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - WEBINAR]
Audio elements for webinars and virtual events.

[COMPONENTS]
Waiting room: Ambient hold music.
Intro: Welcome music and announcements.
Section transitions: Topic change markers.
Break music: For pauses.
Outro: Closing and thank you.

[WAITING ROOM MUSIC]
Duration: 5-10 minute loop.
Style: Pleasant, professional, non-intrusive.
Volume: Moderate, conversation-friendly.
Variation: Changes subtly over time.

[WEBINAR INTRO]
Duration: 15-30 seconds.
Structure: Music + voice-over welcome.
Energy: Engaging, sets positive tone.
Transition: Clean hand-off to presenter.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Format: MP3 for easy upload.
Loudness: -20 to -24 LUFS (under voice).
Quality: 192kbps minimum.

Virtual Event Audio¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - VIRTUAL EVENT]
Larger virtual event audio needs.

[COMPONENTS]
Main stage intro: Opening fanfare.
Speaker walkup: Individual intro music.
Session transitions: Between sessions.
Networking: Background ambience.
Awards: Celebration moments.
Closing: Event wrap-up.

[MAIN STAGE INTRO]
Duration: 30-60 seconds.
Energy: High, exciting, professional.
Purpose: Build anticipation.

[SPEAKER WALKUP]
Duration: 15-20 seconds.
Energy: Medium-high.
Customization: Can vary per speaker.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Format: WAV for production, MP3 for backup.
Mix: Designed for stream quality.
Loudness: Consistent across elements.

Hold & Phone Audio¶

Phone Hold Music¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - HOLD MUSIC]
Telephone hold and waiting audio.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Duration: 3-5 minute seamless loop.
Format: WAV master, MP3/WAV for phone system.
Sample rate: 8kHz-48kHz (phone system dependent).
Mono: Often required for phone systems.

[DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS]
Compression: Survives phone quality.
Frequency: Sounds good at low quality.
Energy: Pleasant but not sleep-inducing.
Loop: Seamless, not obviously repetitive.

[CONTENT]
Music: Professional, on-brand.
Messages: Optional periodic announcements.
Intervals: Message every 30-60 seconds.

[ANNOUNCEMENTS]
Voice: Professional, warm.
Content: Estimated wait, website, value prop.
Length: 10-15 seconds each.
Variety: Multiple messages rotate.

[AVOID]
Aggressive music (frustrates callers).
Silence (feels like disconnection).
Cheesy elevator music (damages brand).
Too-frequent messages (annoying).

IVR Audio¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - IVR]
Interactive Voice Response prompts.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Format: Per phone system requirements.
Voice: Professional voice talent.
Length: As brief as possible.
Consistency: Same voice throughout.

[PROMPT TYPES]
Welcome: Initial greeting.
Menu options: Navigation choices.
Hold/wait: Please hold messages.
Error: Invalid input handling.
Goodbye: Call completion.

[VOICE DIRECTION]
Tone: Warm, helpful, efficient.
Pace: Clear, not rushed.
Articulation: Crystal clear.
Personality: Friendly professional.

[SCRIPT GUIDELINES]
Concise: Shortest path to information.
Clear: Unambiguous instructions.
Helpful: Acknowledge wait times.
Branded: Reinforces SBK experience.

UI & Notification Sounds¶

Application UI Sounds¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - UI SOUNDS]
Interface sound effects.

[SOUND CATEGORIES]
Navigation:
  - Click/tap: Subtle confirmation.
  - Swipe: Smooth transition.
  - Back: Return/undo indicator.

Feedback:
  - Success: Positive confirmation.
  - Error: Non-alarming attention.
  - Warning: Gentle alert.
  - Notification: Attention request.

Progress:
  - Start: Process beginning.
  - Complete: Finished successfully.
  - Milestone: Progress checkpoint.

[DESIGN PRINCIPLES]
Subtle: Not distracting.
Informative: Conveys meaning.
Pleasant: Enjoyable to hear repeatedly.
Consistent: Part of sound family.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Duration: 0.1-1 second typically.
Format: WAV, MP3, OGG.
File size: Minimal for quick loading.
Volume: Designed for typical listening.

[ACCESSIBILITY]
Optional: Users can disable.
Not sole indicator: Pair with visual.
Not startling: Comfortable at any volume.

Notification Sounds¶

[ASSET: AUDIO - NOTIFICATIONS]
Alert and notification tones.

[TYPES]
New message: Incoming communication.
Reminder: Scheduled alert.
Update: New information available.
Urgent: Requires immediate attention.
Completion: Task finished.

[DESIGN]
Distinctive: Recognizable as SBK.
Appropriate: Matches urgency level.
Brief: 0.5-2 seconds.
Pleasant: Not jarring.

[URGENCY LEVELS]
Low: Subtle, soft.
Medium: Clear but calm.
High: Attention-getting, not alarming.
Critical: Distinct, impossible to miss.

[SPECIFICATIONS]
Format: MP3 for mobile, WAV for web.
Size: Under 100KB each.
Compatibility: iOS, Android, web.

Audio Guidelines¶

Technical Specifications¶

audio_specs:
  master_format:
    sample_rate: "48kHz"
    bit_depth: "24-bit"
    format: "WAV"

  distribution:
    podcast: "MP3, 128-192kbps, mono or stereo"
    video: "AAC or MP3, 256kbps"
    web: "MP3 or OGG, 128-192kbps"
    phone: "Per system requirements"
    ui_sounds: "MP3/OGG, optimized for size"

  loudness:
    podcast: "-16 LUFS (Spotify) or -19 LUFS (Apple)"
    video: "-14 LUFS for web, -24 LUFS for broadcast"
    background: "-20 to -24 LUFS (under voice)"

Voice Recording Guidelines¶

voice_recording:
  environment:
    room: "Treated space, minimal reverb"
    noise: "Quiet, no HVAC hum"
    equipment: "Professional microphone"

  technique:
    distance: "6-12 inches from mic"
    pop_filter: "Required"
    levels: "Peak around -6dB"

  processing:
    eq: "Clean up low rumble, add presence"
    compression: "Gentle, maintain dynamics"
    de-essing: "As needed"
    noise_reduction: "Subtle if needed"

  delivery:
    format: "WAV, 48kHz, 24-bit"
    naming: "Descriptive file names"
    organization: "By category/usage"

Music Licensing¶

music_licensing:
  options:
    custom_composition: "Best for brand consistency"
    royalty_free: "Ensure quality and exclusivity"
    stock_music: "Carefully vetted for brand fit"

  requirements:
    perpetual: "No expiration on usage rights"
    commercial: "Full commercial use allowed"
    modification: "Rights to edit for timing"
    multi_platform: "Web, social, broadcast, etc."

  documentation:
    license_copies: "Store with project files"
    attribution: "If required by license"
    tracking: "Log of all licensed music"

Production Workflow¶

Audio Production Process¶

production_workflow:
  brief:
    - "Define audio purpose and context"
    - "Establish mood and tone requirements"
    - "Identify technical specifications"
    - "Set timeline and deliverables"

  creation:
    - "Develop concepts and references"
    - "Create rough drafts/sketches"
    - "Review and refine direction"
    - "Produce final version"

  review:
    - "Technical quality check"
    - "Brand consistency review"
    - "Test in intended context"
    - "Stakeholder approval"

  delivery:
    - "Export all required formats"
    - "Document specifications"
    - "Archive source files"
    - "Distribute to stakeholders"

File Organization¶

file_organization:
  naming_convention: "sbk-audio-{type}-{name}-{version}.{ext}"

  examples:
    - "sbk-audio-logo-main-v2.wav"
    - "sbk-audio-podcast-intro-cybersecurity-v1.mp3"
    - "sbk-audio-ui-notification-success-v1.ogg"

  folder_structure:
    sonic_identity:
      - "logo/"
      - "palette/"
    podcast:
      - "intros/"
      - "outros/"
      - "transitions/"
      - "beds/"
    events:
      - "webinar/"
      - "virtual-event/"
    phone:
      - "hold/"
      - "ivr/"
    ui:
      - "navigation/"
      - "feedback/"
      - "notifications/"

Quality Checklist¶

Audio Asset Checklist¶

Before finalizing any audio asset:

Audio-Visual Asset Checklist¶

Before finalizing any audio-visual asset (audiograms, podcast covers, video frames):

Variant Alignment Verification¶

variant_qa_checklist:
  trusted_advisor:
    visual: "Conservative blue palette, subtle grid, professional"
    sonic: "Refined, warm electronic, reassuring"
    alignment_check: "Both feel established and trustworthy"

  cyber_shield:
    visual: "Dark background, red accents, glow effects, technical grid"
    sonic: "Dramatic, electronic pulses, alert-ready"
    alignment_check: "Both feel security-focused and operational"

  blueprint_technical:
    visual: "#1C1C1C + #F05023, dashed grids, corner marks"
    sonic: "Mechanical, metronomic, industrial precision"
    alignment_check: "Both feel engineered and calculated"

Last Updated: February 2026 Version: 2.0 (Parameterized Design System Integration)