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Essential software for Radio Stations

Looking to get your own radio station up and running? In this article we’re going to show you essential software for radio stations: from setting up your stream, to controlling your sound levels and enhancing your broadcast quality. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, we’ve listed the best tools for live broadcasting, audio processing, and scheduling your shows. Let’s dive right in!

1/ The Radio Manager

Ok, so this may not technically be a software for radio, but to start your station, you’ll need a reliable broadcasting solution. At RadioKing, we have 4 Radio Offers that provide you with access to the Radio Manager. This online platform allows you to create and manage your internet radio station with ease! It includes all the essential features to organise your content, share it, and measure your success:

An intelligent media library to upload your audio content and create your own playlists & programs. You can also tag your songs (genre, year, duration, BPM etc…) to better organise your MP3 files.
A simple planning tool to schedule your content to broadcast automatically (and up to 6 months in advance).
Detailed statistics regarding your listeners (location, session duration, listening device…)
Customisable widgets to help you share your radio station (including a radio page and radio player).
Live broadcasting compatible with various software (IceCast).
A team area that allows you to add admins to help run your radio station.
And many other features such as: geo-protection, normalization, a dedicated page on the RadioKing listening platform…

2/ Live broadcasting software for radio stations

Another essential piece of software for radio is live broadcasting software. This allows you to go live and speak directly to your listeners in real time. Whether you’re a pro broadcaster or an amateur, the products you use matter. There are many different software solutions available for both Mac and Windows, some more complex, others beginner-friendly.

MIXXX

One of the most popular free DJ-ing software options for internet radio stations! It includes 4 decks for mixing music, plus built-in audio processing tools. This product works like a mini studio inside your computer, helping you broadcast live with great control. Available to download on Mac OS, Windows, and Linux.

BUTT

This simple encoder is widely used to stream and record your sessions. It’s a very solid and user-friendly software for radio broadcasting, perfect for those getting started. It’s free, available to download on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Available to download on Mac OS, Windows & Linux

VIRTUAL DJ

A well-known broadcasting software for radio DJs, with features like smart folders, advanced mixers, effects, and a great interface. If you’re looking for a full broadcasting solution, this is a pro-level option. Available on Windows and Mac.

3/ Audio recording software for radio stations

When managing your radio station, you might want to record your shows for later broadcast or turn them into podcasts. That’s where audio recording software comes in handy. Here are our top 3 free solutions for broadcasters:

Audacity

Whether it’s creating jingles, editing shows or recording interviews, Audacity is one of the best free audio tools out there. Lightweight, easy to use, and compatible with most operating systems.

GarageBand

This Mac-only software is a favorite among musicians, but it also supports multi-track audio recording. Add effects, background music, and easily drag-and-drop audio content.

Reaper

A pro tool that’s more advanced but extremely customisable. It’s perfect if you want to take your audio processing to the next level.

These tools are also great for producing audio ads or jingles for your station. 🎙️

👉 Discover how to create your own jingle in this article!
in this article.

4/ Communication and live call-ins

If you’re planning to interact with listeners in real time, you’ll need a communication solution. These tools allow you to launch a live call and integrate it into your broadcast via your chosen software:

🎧 Take a look at our tutorial on how to take live calls on your radio station.

5/ Normalisation

The last essential software for radio stations we’ll cover is MP3Gain — a great tool to normalise your audio files and balance sound levels across tracks.

MP3Gain for Mac Os

MP3Gain for Windows

Since not all music is mastered at the same sound level, this tool helps avoid sudden volume changes during streaming. It’s especially useful for a solid, professional broadcast experience.

🔧 The Radio Manager also includes built-in standardization: either basic volume leveling or EBU R 128 processing for Radio Business users.

6/ Bonus tools

Let’s finish with a few bonus software solutions that don’t directly relate to broadcasting but are very useful for radio station operations and team organisation:

Notion

A collaborative cloud-based tool to manage your shows, guests, scripts, and more. Ideal for remote teams.

Canva

Create social posts, logos, cover images, and other visual content to promote your station. Super easy to use, even for beginners.

Buffer

Schedule your music promo and social media posts ahead of time. This product helps you stay consistent with your online presence.

FAQ :

What is an automation tool ?

An automation tool will allow you to schedule the content of your radio station in advance so that it broadcasts automatically at a scheduled time, even if your computer is switched off.

What is the best live broadcasting software for radio ?

There are various software solutions for broadcasting live on your internet radio station. The choice mainly comes down to personal preference (and perhaps pricing, although many are free to download!) We invite you to take a look at this article to compare the different solutions and find which one could be the best fit for you.