For a live internet radio show, start with a computer that meets your broadcasting software's requirements, a stable internet connection, headphones and software to send audio to your VosCast server. Add a microphone if you will speak during the programme.
Choose a setup for your show
- Music from your computer: software such as Mixxx can play and broadcast your programme. Use the matching SHOUTcast guide if that is your account's server type.
- One presenter: a USB microphone and headphones can provide a simple starting point. Configure the microphone in your chosen broadcasting or mixing software.
- Several microphones or external players: an audio interface or mixer can combine the inputs. Send its intended programme output to an encoder such as BUTT. Check that the device provides the inputs and computer output you need before buying it.
- Uploaded recordings without a live computer: hosted Auto DJ plays files from your VosCast account. Your computer does not need to remain on during hosted playback.
A mixer is optional for a basic station. If music plays in one app and your microphone is separate, use Voicemeeter on Windows or an appropriate Mac audio workflow rather than assuming both sources reach the encoder automatically.
Use headphones while presenting to prevent the programme feeding back into your microphone. Before a show, check the music and speech through your account's Quick Listen Link on another device.
Our internet radio equipment guide explains computers, microphones, interfaces, mixers and monitoring in more detail. For the server connection, follow Getting Started - Basic Information.