The Power of Sound Design in Advertising: Making Your Ad Unforgettable
When it comes to advertising, visuals might grab the viewer’s attention — but sound is what truly makes the message stick. From the instantly recognisable jingle to the subtle rise of emotion in a music bed, great sound design for advertising has the power to transform a commercial from forgettable to unforgettable.
Yet, despite its impact, audio is often treated as an afterthought. At Kore Sounds, we believe it should be part of the conversation from the start.
How Sound Design Enhances Ads
In a matter of seconds, sound can evoke trust, urgency, nostalgia, or excitement. It’s not just about music — it’s about the entire soundscape. Well-crafted sound design enhances storytelling, reinforces branding, and helps your message land with clarity across platforms.
Think of it as emotional shorthand. A rising swell of strings may signal hope. A crisp sound effect can communicate innovation. A well-timed pause lets a line of dialogue land with weight. Kore Sounds specialises in crafting these sonic details to elevate your content.
Examples of Iconic Audio in Ads
Consider the Intel "bong" sound — a simple sonic signature that instantly recalls technology, reliability, and brand recognition. Or the Honda "Cog" commercial, where a chain reaction of car parts creates a rhythmic, captivating soundtrack entirely out of practical sound effects.
These aren’t accidents. They’re the result of deliberate, creative audio decisions designed to create a lasting impression.
Our Approach to Commercial Sound Design
At Kore Sounds, we take a collaborative, end-to-end approach to audio for advertising. Whether you’re launching a national campaign or creating branded content for digital, our team can:
Consult on your audio branding strategy
Record and direct professional voiceovers
Create original sound design and FX
Compose or license custom music
Mix to spec for TV, online, and social platforms
Every campaign has a story to tell — our role is to ensure it sounds just as powerful as it looks.
Why Quality Sound Matters
According to a Nielsen study, ads with strong audio branding are 96% more likely to be remembered than those without. Sound not only boosts emotional response, but also increases the likelihood of brand recall, especially across platforms where visual attention might be limited (think podcast ads, radio, or mobile playback).
Good sound design helps your ad stand out, get shared, and — most importantly — be remembered.
Make Your Next Campaign Sound Great
If you want your next campaign to sound as good as it looks, get in touch with our sound design specialists. Explore our post-production services or contact the Kore Sounds team to discuss how we can help bring your brand’s voice to life.