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Anyone out there who does or has done live audio streaming on the web? If so, what hardware/software do you or did you use? What other equipment do you recommend?

Comments

falkon2 Sat, 06/07/2003 - 04:26

Shoutcast is arguably currently the most arguably popular broadcasting software available right now. Practically everyone knows someone who's heard about it/uses it, and anyone with Winamp can tune in.

Only thing is that it's limited to the MP3 format (admittedly outdated).

Edit: "...currently the most arguably popular..."? <-- Wha!?

TheSoundman Tue, 06/10/2003 - 17:33

Hey Arthur-

The post itself can stay here.. Rick came along and dragged me out of my Live Sound cave to respond to this post. I'm not an expert on streaming audio, but I'm learning a lot.

RadioMelodie "www.RadioMelodie.net" is currently using DRS 2006 "www.drs2006.com" which streams in mp3 PRO. I must admit, it really sounds good. With a broadband connection, it sounds as good as a CD playing on my computer, over a sound system that is pretty decent. I've gotten positive comments from other listeners, too.

As for other equipment, I have a hardware DJ mixer, mic, headphones and a monitor system. I'm also experimenting with some software based DJ mixers that basically run mp3 files like records with auto cross- fade, volume control, etc.

RadioMelodie is a German Internet radio station. One of the engineers there helped me get everything set up. And- they are currently looking for additional American broadcasters. I'm the only one so far. With the time zone differences, it makes a lot of sense. As a DJ for RadioMelodie, I have access to all the DRS 2006 software at no expense. PM me if you're interested!

And now for the brazen plug: My show is called Network51: Pirate Radio with Dave the Cat and airs every Sunday night at 5PM Eastern Standard Time. The web address is "www.RadioMelodie.net" Just click on "jetzt chatten" to open the chat room, then click on the link you find there to listen to the show with a direct mp3 link. I think you may also need to download a plug- in for winamp to hear it in mp3 PRO. But it's worth it!

anonymous Fri, 06/13/2003 - 17:02

Thanks SoundMan for your info. Just a few questions: Do you do your show by yourself in your studio? Is someone required at the internet radio station when you broadcast? What does RadioMelodie.net charge you to broadcast? How easy (user friendly) is the DRS 2006 software (is it fun surfing its learning curve)?

Thanks in advance. :w:

TheSoundman Tue, 06/17/2003 - 13:41

Hey Arthur-

Everybody at RadioMelodie.net broadcasts from their home studio. As far as details on the server go, I'm not sure. A gang of German Engineers handle that end, but I think they do it remotely. Once I connect, I just broadcast as if I would over a terrestrial radio station.

RadioMelodie does not charge me to broadcast. Basically, I'm trading programming services (my show) for the air time they provide. I'm not sure how they finance this project, since they don't run ads either. (at least I don't think they do. I don't speak much German)

I found the DRS 2006 radio station automation software very difficult to use. But you don't have to use it. You will need a plugin to broadcast in mp3 PRO and the guys there can help you get set up. Email me at "soundman9@hotmail.c…" if you are interested!

anonymous Fri, 06/20/2003 - 08:08

Thanks for the info. I'm not much interested in broadcasting with RadioMelodie.net since they're so far away, but mostly for the language barrier. Also, I'm reluctant to work with German companies due to past history...but that's another issue. I was more interested in how everything is set up with the server and what software is used, etc.

It's great that you're able to broadcast at no charge. ...Just wondering, how many listeners do you have?

I'm planning to do a program soon and after looking at several internet radio stations, I'm now considering starting a station myself which would host my program. I don't plan on running the station's daily operations, as I'm involved in overseeing numerous other ventures as well, but will hire the necessary people for such on-site management (I do not micromanage people but let them do their jobs; then I evaluate performance periodically, of course). And, everyone will speak fluent English. (lol)

And, once again, thank you for your info. :tu: