What Is an ISRC Code? Structure, Rules, and How to Embed It
This guide explains the international standard recording code, its structure, when to assign a new code, how to embed it, and how TYX Studios builds it into delivery.
An ISRC code is the international standard recording code that labels one specific recording for life. It links usage and royalties to the correct rights owner on stores, broadcasters, and societies. It applies to sound recordings and music video recordings, so your track and video can travel cleanly across systems.
At TYX Recording Studios we plan, register, and embed codes during session prep and delivery. That way your data stays intact from first bounce to release.
Why the ISRC matters
The ISRC identifies the exact asset used in commerce. It prevents mix ups between a studio master, a live take, an acoustic cut, and a video recording. Think of it as a digital fingerprint that lets systems uniquely identify usage and route money to the correct parties. The recording industry relies on this standard for clean reporting, faster dispute resolution, and reliable catalogue control.
Example: GB-XYZ-25-00001.
The structure
Every code has 12 characters that represent three elements. The prefix code starts with a two letter country code and a three character registrant code. The year of reference uses the last two digits of the year you assigned the number.
The designation code is five digits that you allocate to that master. Example. GB-ABC-25-01234. GB is the country, ABC is the registrant, 25 is the year, and 01234 is the serial. Those letters and digits represent a single, unique recording.
When you need a new code
Issue a new ISRCany time the audio or video is a different recording. That includes a remix, a radio edit, a remaster with audible changes, a live performance, an instrumental, or a language version. Each video recording also needs its own number. Do not reuse an old identifier within the same year or later.
The original code should remain attached to the original asset for its entire life.
How to obtain and assign in the UK
Register as a recording rightsholder with PPL to obtain a registrant code. You can then allocate ISRCs for each track and video. Approved isrc managers and many distributors can also assign on your behalf by agreement. During setup you provide ownership data, performer and artist details, and the release plan. If you work with a label or manager, state clearly which entity will request and manage the ranges.
Embedding and delivery
After you allocate a number, embed it in the master file and match it in your delivery sheet. For MP3, add the TSRC tag in ID3. For WAV, store it in Broadcast Wave metadata. For MP4 and other video, add it in XMP or the platform field during upload so music videos are tagged correctly.
Keep titles, dates, and codes aligned across your metadata form, the project file, and the distributor portal. Services like Spotify expect accurate matches to reduce rejections.
ISRC, UPC, and ISWC
The international standard recording code identifies the recording. The universal product code identifies the commercial product, such as a single or album. ISWC identifies musical works at the composition level. Use all three so systems can match recordings, products, and songs without guesswork.
Common mistakes to avoid
Reused codes on a different recording cause payouts to drift. A missing code leaves a release hard to identify. Confusing ISRC with UPC or ISWC delays ingestion. Skipping a register means you cannot prove what was assigned or when it was created. Avoid these by keeping a simple sheet that lists each code, the file it belongs to, the owner, the allocation date, and the release status.
A streamlined TYX workflow
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TYX Recording Studios is an end-to-end studio complex in London. From music to podcasting to photography, we've supported a wide range of artists, from up-and-comers to top industry names.
Our expert team specialises in delivering exceptional mixing and mastering services, crafted specifically for your artistic vision.
As part of delivery we create a project reference at session start, assign a unique ISRC for every track and planned video, verify the letters and digits, embed the code, and export a clean package. You get accurate credits, smooth ingest, and fewer fixes later.
From meticulous attention to sonic detail to personalised guidance for artists at all levels, we’re committed to bringing out the very best in your music. Experience standout results, unmatched clarity, and dynamic impact with TYX Studios.
Get in touch today and elevate your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Each video recording gets its own identifier so platforms can track usage accurately.
Yes. Many act as isrc managers and will allocate isrcs during setup if you request it.
Use the year the code was assigned, not the year the track was recorded.
The identifier stays the same. Update the rights owner in your systems, not the code.
Yes. Artwork does not alter the specific recording. The original code should remain.
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Some of our London recording studios do indeed function as mixing studios. it depends on your level of mixing needs.
- The Red Studio provides comprehensive production capabilities, including advanced monitoring systems, making it suitable as a mixing studio.
- The Dolby Atmos Studio is designed for immersive audio production and can also accommodate multi-channel mixing tasks, offering a functional mixing studio environment.
- Our production rooms offer varied configurations, with some specifically equipped for mixing studio tasks through advanced monitoring systems.
For specific details to meet your mixing needs, contact us directly.
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