For an optimal streaming experience, SoundStack requires specific hardware and software technical specifications.


In this article we are going to cover:

SoundStack requirements

These are the basic requirements for streaming using SoundStack services. If your device does not meet these requirements, you may not have a positive, consistent experience with SoundStack and you may want to consider upgrading or purchasing a new device.


SoundStack minimum streaming requirements:

  • Max duration of metadata delay is 400 milliseconds.
  • Metadata has to come from the customer encoder (aka "in band").
  • Metadata format must be standard ICY; "Artist - Title"  Tip: check that you are not sending it backwards.


Supported codecs:

  • MP3 (formally MPEG-1 Audio Layer III or MPEG-2 Audio Layer III) is a coding format for digital audio. Originally defined as the third audio format of the MPEG-1 standard, it was retained and further extended (by defining additional bit rates and support for more audio channels) of the subsequent MPEG-2 standard.
  • AAC-LC (Advanced Audio Codec - Low Complexity) is a high-performance audio codec for excellent audio quality at low bit rates, especially when it is compared to MP3.
  • HE-AAC v1 (High-Efficiency Advanced Audio Coding) is an audio coding format for lossy data compression of digital audio. It's defined as an MPEG-4 Audio profile and is an extension of AAC-LC.
  • HE-AAC v2 is optimized for even more aggressive compression than HE-AAC v1 through adding Parametric Stereo.


NOTE: We are currently able to receive audio from customer encoders using the ICY, HLS, and RTMP delivery protocols.


Supported bit rates:

The most commonly used encoding in audio streaming is through the MP3 codec at a 128 kbps bitrate and 44.1 kHz sample rate, with "Joint Stereo" channel mode and constant bitrate (CBR) configured. These settings can provide a good balance between audio quality and file size. Here is what that looks like as set in Console:


Your choice of Channels can be either Mono or Stereo. You may also choose different sample rates and bitrates for your streaming requirements.


NOTE: The minimum upload speed should be at least double your bit rate.


Software encoders

Software audio encoders are applications designed to operate on your laptop, desktop computer, or other computing devices. Typically, they are straightforward to configure, although some may require a solid understanding of streaming practices. There are two main categories of software encoders:


1) Standalone software encoders

Standalone encoder applications primarily serve the function of streaming live audio data from your computer's microphone or line input to an Icecast or Shoutcast server. Unlike other encoders, these standalone versions lack features for playing, scheduling, or managing tracks. The updating of metadata can be done either manually or automatically by reading a file transmitted by the automation system.

  • B.U.T.T (Broadcast Using This Tool)
  • Rocket Broadcaster
  • Omnia Z/IPstream (Telos)


2) Automation systems

This category of software enables users to oversee audio assets, construct playlists with advertising support, establish hourly schedule blocks, implement rotations, and other professional-grade features depending on the application.

  • RCS NexGen
  • RCS Zetta
  • WideOrbit
  • BSI Simian
  • Audiovault
  • ENCO-DAD
  • iMediatouch
  • PlayoutONE
  • NextKast (with built-in encoders)
  • SAM Broadcaster (with built-in encoders)
  • StationPlaylist (with built-in encoders)
  • BSI Op-X


NOTE: If you want to use another automation system please disclose to SoundStack to ensure requirements.


Hardware audio encoders

A hardware encoder, as the name implies, differs from a software encoder. While streaming software operates on computer hardware, hardware encoders are independent devices created specifically for encoding. These devices can take in audio sources through a line-level input.


Some supported hardware encoders:

  • Omnia Z/IPstream (Telos)
  • leanEncoder


NOTE: If you possess a different hardware encoder, it is recommended to promptly inform SoundStack to ensure compatibility with the system requirements.


Mobile audio encoders

These are encoders designed to operate on your mobile devices. They are not widely used, primarily due to their limited availability in the market.


NOTE: For more detailed information on audio encoders, including download links, please refer to our article What is an Audio Streaming Encoder?

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].