How To Start An Internet Radio Station

Learning how to start an internet radio station can be a great way to get your message out to the world. If you want to begin your radio show, these steps can get you broadcasting in no time at all. Like all good things, there is more than one way to get to your goal. We will look at some of your options based on your level of technical skill.

Beginner—Use a plug and play service

Using a plug and play service allows you to set up an account online and get broadcasting right away with almost zero technical skill. While there are a wide array of services, we will look at Blog Talk Radio because it is a free service. Other options require a fee, so be sure you know what you are getting into before you sign up.

You will need:

• Computer with internet connection
• Podcast-safe or original music files
• A phone line (preferably one you don't mind getting long distance charges)
• A quiet place to broadcast
   

1. Put together a coherent idea for your radio show. Be sure to have specific descriptions and show ideas.
2. Get to the Blog Talk Radio website. Click on "Register." You will find it in the upper right hand corner.
3. Complete the questions to register. These should be simple if you have already worked out your concept above. Be sure to put your show in the right category.
4. Set up your first show. Be sure to add a good description to draw listeners.
5. Write down the call in number. This will make it possible for you to host your show.
6. If you will be using any music on the show, you need to upload your tracks in advance. There is no option to play them on the fly during your show. Songs must be ready to play in advance.
7. Sign into the Blog Talk radio show. Get to your show by clicking on "My Blog Talk Radio" then "My Switchboard."
8. Dial into the host number. If asked, type in your PIN number from the swtichboard screen.
9. You will hear the five second count down. When this is over, you are live on the air. Enjoy hosting your show.

Advanced—Broadcast from your computer

You will need:

• Computer with internet connection
• Text editor software

1. Put together a coherent idea for your radio show. Be sure to have specific descriptions and show ideas.
2. Go to Shoutcast.com. Click on "Download."
3. If you do not have Winamp installed on your PC, install it now. Then install the SHOUTcast Radio DSP plug-in for Winamp.
4. Close Winamp. Double-click the installer file that you downloaded for the plug-in.
5. Wait for install to complete. Reopen Winamp.
6. Get to Winamp preferences. Find and click on the the "DSP/Effects" subcategory.
7. Open the "Read Me" file that came with your plug-in download. Read the configuration instructions. You will need them for the next step.
8. Configure the plug-in as per these step by step instructions. They will vary based on your operating system. Do not deviate. If you wish to make your station public set this up now.
9. Get your files ready. Once your station is configured, anything you play through Winamp will broadcast on your station.

Warnings:

• If you choose to include music, be sure that is used legally. Either download from a podcast-safe format or get the creator's permission.
• Be sure to broadcast from a quiet place. Background noise will be heard on air.
• Do not try to broadcast on the fly. Have at least an outline of the show on hand.