Straight answers
Questions people actually ask
Hardware, voices, licences and files, explained without promising a speed or capability the product cannot guarantee.
Start with the hardware questions, then read how voice rights and finished files are handled.
Hardware
Does NarratorForge need a GPU and what hardware does it run on?
Yes. Local narration requires an NVIDIA CUDA GPU with at least 16 GB VRAM. It is Windows software for Windows 10/11 64-bit. An RTX 4090 with 24 GB is the verified configuration; the optional second model also needs 24 GB.
How much disk space should I keep free?
Keep at least 60 GB free; the requirements page recommends 150 GB or more on NVMe for comfortable use.
What does a voice reference clip need?
Use a WAV or MP3 clip between 3 and 30 seconds; 8 to 15 seconds is recommended. Choose one relaxed, expressive speaker with clear diction and steady volume. Avoid music, echo, clipping and overlapping speech. Check the transcript and correct it to match the recording before upload.
Is it legal to clone a voice?
The software can clone a voice, but legality and permission are your responsibility. Obtain the speaker's consent and follow the law where you live. A real actor's likeness is not yours to redistribute: use material you have the rights to use.
Can I distribute audiobooks I make?
You may distribute an audiobook only when you have the rights to the book, recordings and voices involved, and when the upstream model and third-party licences allow your use. NarratorForge does not transfer those rights. Check each upstream component licence and do not redistribute a real person's cloned voice without permission.
What formats can I import and export, and does it handle DRM EPUBs?
Input is an unencrypted EPUB. The app detects its chapters and titles and lets you choose what to narrate; output is a chaptered .m4b audiobook with 96 kbps AAC and chapter markers. It does not read DRM-protected EPUBs that you cannot open. Remove DRM yourself only where legally permitted.
Does it work offline, and does it phone home?
After the app and speech models are installed, narration runs locally. The app checks for updates at startup and downloads model weights. Your books, recordings and generated audio are not sent to the seller.
Is NarratorForge a one-time $29.99 perpetual licence?
Yes. The licence is perpetual — it never expires and there is nothing to renew — and every update is included. There is no narration subscription and no per-character charge.
How do I install updates?
Every update is included with the perpetual licence. When a release is available, use the app's update option; some releases may require a new installer.
How do I download after I buy?
After payment, Stripe returns you to the download page, where the secure buttons unlock the Windows files. If payment is complete but downloads do not appear, refresh the page or contact sales@narratorforge.com with your receipt.