An encoder converts your audio content into a digital signal in order to live stream on SoundStack. Most encoders are software applications running on your computer, while others (less commonly used) are stand-alone hardware devices or mobile encoders.
In this article we are going to cover:
Software audio encoders
Software audio encoders are programs that run on your laptop, desktop computer or another computing device. In audio streaming, software encoders are the most commonly used type of encoder. Usually, they are very easy to set up, but for some, you may need moderate streaming knowledge. There are two types of software encoders:
Standalone software encoders
The main purpose of standalone encoder applications is to stream live audio data from your computer's Mic or Line input to SoundStack's servers. These types of encoders do not have an option to play, schedule, or manage the tracks.
Metadata can either be updated manually or automatically by reading a file transmitted by the automation software.
Here a couple examples that are commonly used to stream out to SoundStack:
Software encoders with automation included
These types of software allow you to manage audio assets, build playlists with advertising support, hourly schedule blocks, rotations, automatic leveling, and other professional grade features depending on the application.
Hardware audio encoders
A hardware encoder, as the name suggests, is different from a software encoder. Hardware encoders are stand-alone devices designed specifically for audio stream encoding. A hardware encoder is able to intake audio sources using a line-level input. The most popularly used hardware encoders are Telos and Barix.
Mobile audio encoders
There are encoders which can run on mobile devices. There are not very popular, simply because there are not many on the market.
Note: For more detailed information on the technical requirements for audio streaming, please refer to our guide on Technical Requirements for Streaming
If you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact our Support Team through the ticket submission form or by emailing us at [email protected].