Pay-to-plays (P2Ps) are casting websites in voiceover where you pay a subscription fee to gain access to posted jobs. Typically, this looks like paying a few hundred dollars for a yearly subscription that allows you to audition for projects directly on the platform.
P2Ps are one of the most debated topics in the VO community. Some swear by them, others avoid them entirely. The truth is—there’s no single “correct” answer. Like most tools, it depends on how you use them and what stage of your career you’re in.
The two big P2Ps are Voices.com (VDC) and Voice123 (V123), each with their own pros and cons. But before comparing them, let’s step back and look at why a voice actor might consider joining a P2P in the first place.
Why Consider a Pay-to-Play?
When you’re just starting out, finding auditions can feel impossible. P2Ps solve that problem by delivering auditions directly to your inbox. You don’t need to hunt for casting calls or rely on an agent—jobs are centralized on the platform.
Another underrated advantage is SEO (search engine optimization). Because these platforms have such strong web presence, your profile will often appear on Google when someone searches your name or related voiceover keywords. This helps build your online footprint and increases the chance of being found by clients searching independently.
That said, it’s important to wait until you’re ready. Jumping into P2Ps without coaching or professional audio gear will put you up against established pros, making it nearly impossible to stand out. Once you’ve trained and built a broadcast-quality home studio, P2Ps can become a valuable tool in your marketing mix.
Of course, there are disadvantages:
Voices.com was the first P2P I personally tried, and my experience has been a mix of positives and negatives.
In short, VDC can provide legitimate opportunities, but the lack of direct client relationships and their commission model are big trade-offs.
P2Ps are neither a golden ticket nor a waste of time—they’re a tool. For some voice actors, they serve as a springboard to start building credits and finding work outside of agents. For others, they become an ongoing piece of their business model.
The key is to approach them strategically:
Pay-to-plays are divisive because they reflect the realities of the industry: competitive, evolving, and sometimes expensive. But if you know what you’re getting into and use them smartly, they can open doors and even lead to long-term client relationships.
Ultimately, whether you choose to use them or not comes down to your business model, goals, and comfort level. Just remember: your career isn’t defined by any one platform—it’s defined by the consistency, quality, and authenticity you bring to your work.