If you’ve been wondering how one goes about setting up an online radio station then you’re in luck. There are a number of simple ways to make an online radio station involving nothing more than some free software and a microphone attached to your computer. There’s also a lot of variety in costs and radio types depending on whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist – or somewhere in between.
So, here’s a run-down of the best tools you can use to get your radio station up and running. Then all you need to do is to keep it interesting and get some listeners!
It’s actually far quicker and easier to create a video station than it is to create a pure radio station. Try using Justin.tv or Ustream.tv and you’ll see that you instantly create a “channel” that’s dedicated to you and can be on at any time. They’ll even notify people that follow you when you’re on and streaming. It’s not pure radio, sure, but if you don’t mind the video aspect of it then it’s a really easy way to get started with your own dedicated media channel.
So, here’s a run-down of the best tools you can use to get your radio station up and running. Then all you need to do is to keep it interesting and get some listeners!
Basic Radio Hardware & Software
If you’re going to make radio, you’re going to need a microphone, headphones and computer in order to speak, record and hear yourself as you go. Obviously, the better the tools, the better you’ll sound.
Some of these methods involve using web software or software developed especially for the radio host. But for many methods, to create and record the sounds required for radio on your computer you’ll need to have a way of playing music and a way of recording voice and the music that’s playing. There are lots of free tools available for Windows, Mac and Linux. Many of these tools can also convert your recording into a stream for you too with or without extensions. Try using Winamp or Audacity for two good, free starting points.
Use A Free Radio Station Host
Shoutcast is a simple, free way to host your radio station. The tools you need vary according to your operating system, but Shoutcast have made every effort to keep the process simple. If you have any problems, there is a forum of broadcasters who can help you with your questions, plus give you advice on how to make your station great. We’ve previously gone through the basics of creating a Shoutcast station. Things have changed a little since it was written, but it’s still worth a read if you’re having trouble with the settings.Another free host to consider is Free Stream Hosting, which lets you have up to 1000 users for free before charging for the service. They make money by placing ads on your site in the radio streaming player.
Create A Video Station Instead
It’s actually far quicker and easier to create a video station than it is to create a pure radio station. Try using Justin.tv or Ustream.tv and you’ll see that you instantly create a “channel” that’s dedicated to you and can be on at any time. They’ll even notify people that follow you when you’re on and streaming. It’s not pure radio, sure, but if you don’t mind the video aspect of it then it’s a really easy way to get started with your own dedicated media channel.
Create A Live Radio Station With Web Tools
Spreaker is essentially a tool similar to Ustream.tv or Google On Air, but for radio. You can record your show live or record it for later using tools from the Spreaker site. All shows are kept and can be shared with friends, much like a podcast (but without RSS). Shows are shared via followers on Spreaker and to your friends via your Facebook feed
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