How Does AM, FM, DAB and Internet Radio Compare?
AM
Requires a broadcasting licence
Can broadcast up to several hundreds of miles
Only one radio station can broadcast on one signal
Subject to the most interference
Does not transmit metadata like song names
FM
Requires a broadcasting licence
Can broadcast up to 40 miles
Only one radio station can broadcast on one signal
Subject to less interference than AM
Does not transmit metadata like song names
DAB
Requires a broadcasting licence
Broadcasting distance depends on how many multiplexes a station belongs to
Multiple radio stations can be broadcast on one signal
Has no interference
Can transmit metadata like song names
Internet radio
Does not require a broadcasting licence
Can broadcast anywhere in the world
Number of radio stations are not limited to any signal
Has no interference
Can transmit metadata like song names
Broadcast Online In Minutes
As internet radio doesn’t broadcast over AM, FM or DAB, there’s no license fee to pay. Broadcasting over the internet is typically cheaper as you can use the equipment you already have. Such as a computer or smartphone, and an internet package. All that’s left to pay for is a hosting service and music licensing.
With Radio.co, you can get a hosting service as well as a complete radio management system from $35 a month.
From uploading tracks and managing playlists to voice tracking your shows and getting listener figures, Radio.co has everything you need to manage your radio station.
How Do I Broadcast Radio?
How you broadcast radio depends on the preferred type of radio. For AM & FM, this requires a transmitter and configuring equipment. Because bandwidth is limited, not everyone can legally broadcast on AM, FM or DAB. In many countries, you’ll need a licence.
The man is wearing headphones, and on the desk is a micrphone, an audio interface, a laptop and a cup of coffee.
Online radio also let’s you broadcast from anywhere that has an internet connection.
Alternatively, broadcasting online is remarkably simpler. All you need is a computer or smartphone and an internet connection. For example, with Radio.co everything is handled in the cloud. You don’t need to worry about setting up a transmitter or configuration technical equipment. Just hook up audio equipment like a mic and mixer to your laptop, then start broadcasting to your station online.