Internet Radio Streaming Questions and Answers

You need a computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux), a fast internet connection, and broadcasting software like SHOUTcast DSP or Butt. Optionally, a microphone and mixer improve audio quality. For stable, scalable service, using a hosted SHOUTcast or Icecast server from ShoutCheap simplifies setup.

No, all ShoutCheap hosting plans are monthly and can be canceled or adjusted at any time without long-term commitment.  

Yes, as long as each computer is configured in your streaming software to send audio to your hosting server, you can broadcast from multiple locations seamlessly.

Not if you use Auto DJ hosting. That system plays cached playlists automatically when you’re offline, ensuring continuous streaming.

Yes. For reliable streaming, ensure a consistent and low-latency internet connection. Wired Ethernet is recommended for stability, but a strong Wi-Fi network can work for backup or mobile usage.

Icecast is user-friendly, though more technical than SHOUTcast. It offers robust configuration options like multiple mounts and fallback streams.

Yes. ShoutCheap’s servers come with static IP addresses to ensure stream reliability and ease of configuration.

No. SHOUTcast and Icecast are designed for audio streaming only. Use platforms like YouTube Live or Twitch for video.

Yes. SAM Broadcaster works well with SHOUTcast via standard DSP plugins, making setup simple.

ICEcast is an open-source audio streaming server developed by Xiph.org. It supports MP3, Ogg, Opus, and other formats, plus advanced features like fallback streams and multiple mounts.

SHOUTcast is easier to set up, supports MP3/AAC, and offers a public directory. Icecast is more flexible, supports Ogg/Opus/WebM, allows fallback streams, and is fully free and open-source.

Currently, ShoutCheap does not provide a white label or reseller program.

Listener slots are the number of simultaneous listeners your plan supports. Each connection consumes one slot, so choose a plan based on your expected audience size.

Port 80 is the default HTTP port, often used so listeners behind restrictive firewalls can access a stream. It’s helpful for broader compatibility but requires special server setup.

Absolutely. Your live stream can override the Auto DJ when you’re online, switching back when you’re finished.

Auto DJ is an automated system that plays pre-uploaded playlists when live broadcasting is unavailable. It keeps your stream active around the clock.

Your broadcast software sends audio to a streaming server (SHOUTcast or Icecast), which then distributes it to listeners worldwide.

Very easy. With tools like SHOUTcast DSP and CentovaCast, setup involves just server credentials and a few clicks to start streaming.

Yes. SHOUTcast is widely used by professional stations, offering directory exposure, analytics, and compatibility with many platforms.

ShoutCheap accepts all major credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal.

Yes. ICEcast’s flexibility, format support, and open-source nature make it ideal for advanced broadcasters.

In CentovaCast, go to server configuration and enable the “Make public” option. Make sure your metadata and format follow SHOUTcast directory guidelines.

Bitrate refers to audio quality, measured in kilobits per second (kbps). Higher bitrates offer better sound but use more bandwidth.

SHOUTcast is a streaming protocol and software for internet radio, developed by Nullsoft, popular for its compatibility with MP3/AAC and widespread adoption.

Yes. All streaming plans include SSL-enabled (HTTPS) streams, essential for browser compatibility and security.

Yes. You can change your plan at any time via your client area, with no downtime during migration.

Yes. ShoutCheap offers multiple data center options worldwide to reduce latency and improve listener experience.

ShoutCheap provides 24/7 ticket-based support, with most responses within 30 minutes.