Online Radio Connectivity using Behringer UCA222

I found that the easiest method to connect an analog audio mixer to PC is using an audio interface and in this case I am using the UCA222 from Behringer. The UCA 222 use two sets of unbalanced RCA namely Input RCA ( L&R) and Output RCA(L&R). Download the Behringer UCA222 manual for more info. Impedance mismatch is the most troublesome problem ( i.e. Hum, distorted, imbalanced audio level ..etc.) especially if you are using external devices such as CD player, IPod, Ipad and similar to generate audio into line in of Laptop or PC. Now this can be minimized if you use UCA222. Try it to believe.

Radio Online Streaming Part 2

Welcome back Folks, now if you choose to use TYPE II connection, it is crucial that before we begin setting up the hardware,I should mentioned here the importance of a good audio interface module (here we recommend you to use Behringer UCA 222) as this will greatly affect your online radio stability (latency and audio loop) especially if you are using only one desktop or laptop to run both audio streamer and Playlist or radio Automation.

Assuming that you have the entire hardware ready (except the guitar and the additional desktop as both of these items are optional), you will find it easy to make the connection by referring to the diagram shown in basic online radio.pdf. ( refer to Step 1 Radio Online Streaming ).

Do quick checking to all connectivity of the system before you switch on the power. If the connection is done properly and all items are in working condition, there should be no problem (I hope so). Next steps may need you to download (assuming that you have not yet downloading the applications) and runs the setup program of these applications:


Steps 3: Next...

Radio online Streaming Part 1

I wrote this tutorial few months ago and I guess it will be cool to publish it for the benefit of everyone who wants to learn how to setup their online radio.

TYPE 1

TYPE 2

STEP 1:  ONLINE RADIO TUTORIAL:

Hi everyone, now let me see where should I begin? Ok are you ready, relax, if you find it difficult to follow do not worry, it will be easy once you get hold of the concepts and the secret ( actually it is not a secret at all) behind this mysterious and confusing topic. Technically the steps to setup an online radio is not that difficult at all.

This tutorial shall also involve setting up shoutcast hosting server (in my experience, with RTM, it is more reliable to host the shoutcast server elsewhere rather than running your own shoutcast server. This is mainly because of certain limitation i.e. limited listeners and streaming instability and others matters concerning server maintenance and servicing. Unless you have a very big dedicated broadband line in the region of 30MB and above and of cause you need highly knowledgeable technical staffs to look after the server.

You better off in my opinion to let the server side taken care by other so that you are free to concentrate the content of the online radio rather than wasting time doing the maintenance i.e. troubleshooting and related matters just to keep the server running. Believe me, I was there before and it gives me lot of sleepless night and headache.

Just in case, you may also need to understand what is shoutcast, if you are being asked to explain later.

What is SHOUTcast?

SHOUTcast is a free-of-charge internet DJ solution. It allows anybody on the internet to broadcast live audio/shows from their PC to listeners across the globe.  SHOUTcast relies on MP3 or AAC technology to deliver audio in a live situation. If you prefer to broadcast from your pc to your listeners the information below will have you broadcasting in no time. Find more info at www.shoutcast.com.

An online radio is little bit easier to understand if you study the diagram (two configuration to choose) as per attachment (TYPE I.pdf and TYPE II.pdf as above).

The hardware consists of the following items:

a) Basic Behringer one channel microphone Model Behringer UB502

b) Behringer USB Audio interface UCA 222 (Ultra-Low Latency 2 In/2 Out USB Audio Interface with Digital Output). Please refer to attachment for more info. (for TYPE II only).

c) OPTIONAL : Desktop PC for Playlist or Radio Automation

d) Cables : 3.5mm stereo jack to TRS jack / RCA ( left and right)

e) Dynamic Microphone : Shure SM58 (made in Mexico) or equivalent

f) Studio Headphone (any good studio /semi pro headphone).

g) Active studio Monitor

h) Laptop or desktop for Audio Streamer ( win 7 OS )

i) OPTIONAL : Others accessories : guitar, sound generator…etc

The Software consists of the following:

a) Winamp Standard (go to http://www.winamp.com/media-player/all to download )

b) SHOUTcast DSP Plug-In for Winamp ( go to http://www.shoutcast.com/broadcast-tools to download )

c) Registered with free shoutcast hosting for training purposes at http://www.listen2myradio.com/ and choose and click “sign up for free account” and follow the instruction to setup the free shoutcast hosting server.

Once you have gather the above hardware and software requirement, then the following steps is to setup the said hardware and software. So are you ready to go to the next steps? Or perhaps you want to stop here for a cup of coffee, watch TV or something to relax you.

NEXT is Step 2.

Workshop on Introduction to Sound Reinforcement System for Audio Operators

The objective of this workshop is to introduce a hands on experience to audio operators and technician. The knowledge gained from attending this workshop will help them to properly operate and tackle the common problem facing with the majority of sound reinforcement system.

What You Will Learn:

• The inner workings of audio interfaces,such as line signal, Low and high impedance signal, power and other signal characteristics. 
• Understand the different type of microphone.
• Understand microphone technique
• Understand microphone characteristics such as frequency responses.
• Understand loudspeaker cables and the required size (AWG)
• Understand system gain structure for optimum signal to noise ratio.
• How to match audio power amplifier to the loudspeaker.
• Basic Troubleshooting on typical Audio System
• Understand the The functionality of a typical audio power amplifier.
• Understand the operational and mixing technique of a typical professional audio mixer.
• An equalization strategy that gets at what you can fix, and avoids "over equalizing" the sound system.
• How to properly setup PA system.
• and many more.

This three days workshop covers the theory and practical aspect of operating the sound reinforcement system. The whole workshop will be conducted side by side with typical live working sound system so they can relate the theory being taught and the actual application. It include a hands on session where the technician can demonstrate what have been taught.


Day 1

• What is Sound?
• Loudness of Sound (dB)
• signal Flow
• Tea/Coffee Break ( 15 Minutes )
• Signal Flow - continue
• The Microphone Jungle
• Selection and application of wired microphone
• Lunch
• Hands on Training & knowledge testing

Day 2

• Using the Mixing console
• Understanding the mixer
• Tea/Coffee Break ( 15 Minutes )
• Connecting the mixer to other equipments
• Mixing techniques- P.A. Mixing : Small, Medium & Large System
• Lunch
• Hands-on training & knowledge testing

Day 3

• An overview of the Signal Processors.
• An introduction to Amplifier application.
• Tea/Coffee Break ( 15 Minutes )
• Continued – Amplifier application.
• Hands on training & knowledge testing
• Lunch ( 1 hour )
• Speaker cable–importance of correct length.
• Using Loudspeakers.
• Top 10 ways to ‘Toast’ speakers and diaphragms.
• Tea/Coffee Break ( 15 Minutes )
• Summary of two days lesson.
• Practical session on setting up & operating a complete P.A. System. Can they do it and overcome any problems?
• Training Evaluation – Comments & Feedback
• Group Photo & Certificate Presentation
• End of training 

Who Should Attend?


• Those who want to acquire basic fundamental in sound reinforcement system

• Audio Operators or Audio technicians


• Worship leaders


• Musicians who want to explore and improve their sound


• Those who want to experiment with typical small portable sound systems


• Anyone who has the keen interest in sound reinforcement system.


• This seminar is for those who operate and handle sound reinforcement systems.



REGISTER FOR THIS 3 DAYS WORKSHOP - Please call or email us for more info.


Kindly register in advance to avoid disappointment


Venue*:
To be advised
Date/Time:
To be advised



Apart from the Audio Notes and ACE Pen
* Venue/Date subject to change with prior notice.

Instructor Profile:


C.G. Simon

He is currently works as a senior broadcast Engineer with the local Audio Consultancy and Engineering Company. He has accumulated suffice knowledge in sound engineering while working fulltime as broadcast engineer. With his 18 years of working experience ranging from setting up and running pro-audio sound system, troubleshooting and designing system pertaining to broadcasting, he is well suited to conduct the said workshop.

He graduated from University of East London, United Kingdom with Bachelor Engineering in Electrical and Electronic (Honours Degree). He has always been actively involved with music and shown keen interest in Sound reinforcement System ever since his school days. He is also a musician and played the guitar, keyboard and drums.

To further improve his teaching skills, he attended numerous local and overseas training courses, seminars and workshop and this help to update his technical knowledge. He has also undergone a “Train the Trainers” program as well as a “Training Needs Analysis” Course. He is a qualified trainer and able to analyze the technical training requirement of department personnel if necessary.