What Do I Need To Add Streaming Audio To My Site

You may be wondering what it takes to add audio to your site. You may be surprised to find out how little it takes to get started. You probably have some of what you need and the rest can be acquired for little or no cost. Here is a setup designed to get you going without a whole lot of costs.

Computer: Most any computer made in the last few years should be sufficient to get you started recording streaming audio.

Microphone: The mike that came with your computer will be enough to start with. As you get more experienced you will most certainly want to upgrade to a better mike.

Software: You will need to get several different kinds of software to put streaming audio on your website each serving a different purpose.

Recording Software: This ranges from the free recording software Audacity to programs that cost hundreds of dollars.

Editing Software: After you are done recording you will need to edit your recording. This can be done in your recording software but you may be happier with dedicated editing software.

Mp3 Conversion: Your software above may save your file in the MP3 format depending on what program you choose. If not you need to get something to convert your wav file into MP3. I use DB Power Amp, which is a powerful converter well worth its small cost.

Flash Converter: To stream your audio you will need a program to convert your MP3 into the flash format, which is called SWF. This is a simple process with the likes of Web Audio Plus, Sonic Memo and others.

Html Stuff: You will have to put your code from your flash converter into a web page if you want to see and hear your buttons. This is easier than it sounds.

Web Hosting: You need to be careful when choosing a hosting service. Make sure they provide enough storage space and bandwidth.

All of the above may seem confusing but we will go over the things you need to know to be successful. Create Streaming Audio ezine will help you each step of the way. Next time we meet you will get a basic tutorial on how to record your audio into your computer.
Tip! If you have an aviation site or science site, how about sounds from the Reno Air Races or Neil Armstrong’s famous quote; “One small step for man, once giant step for mankind!” Consider audio streaming and how it can help your website strategy in 2006.

Doug Taylor has been creating audio online since 1999. If you think that putting audio files on a website will be a lot of hard work and hassle then download a free 16 page special report Mastering Streaming Audio. Visit http://www.create-streaming-audio.com/csa_ezine.html for streaming audio tips, tricks, shortcuts, and techniques.