I don't think there is a "standard" space before a "hidden" track. And if there is, I don't understand why anyone would want to use the standard time.

If you're going to add something extra to your album, use your discretion rather than adding it just like [insert generic band name here] did. Why does the band want the hidden track in the first place? Is it simply an extra studio track? Is it a comedic behind the scenes clip? Is it a live track? Are they just trying to f... with the listener?

These are things to consider when you're adding that dead space to the last track. If you just want to catch the listener off guard after they think the CD has ended, maybe one minute is enough downtime. If you want the listener to have to really work for that bonus audio, add 36 minutes of silence to the last documented track like the Deftones did on Around the Fur.

So my opinion is to develop your own opinion.

Ballz wrote: Why does the band want the hidden track in the first place?

They have 2 reasons. 1) The track is a guitar/vocal rather than the full band. It doesn't really fit the rest of the CD. 2) To surprise the listener when they think the CD is over.

I ended up using 1.5 minutes. I'm thinking 1 minute would be even better.

Thanks for the feedback.
JY