Software audio encoders • Tutorials & guides

Software Audio Encoders Support

Find step-by-step tutorials for every major software audio encoder. From configuring Mixxx and VirtualDJ to setting up SHOUTcast DSP, SAM Broadcaster, and BUTT, our guides walk you through every step to get your station live.

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Software audio encoder tutorials

Step-by-step guides for the most popular software audio encoders. Whether you're setting up Mixxx, SHOUTcast DSP, BUTT, VirtualDJ, or SAM Broadcaster, find everything you need to get your stream live.

How to stream with Mixxx software

Looking for help installing and configuring your Mixxx software? Get access to a step-by-step tutorial so you can get started.

SAM Broadcaster Tutorial

If you use SAM Broadcaster, you can easily add SHOUTcast directly to your software. You can do this in no time by following this tutorial.

How to stream with CasterX

This tutorial shows you how to set up your CasterX encoder in just six simple steps!

How to stream with VirtualDJ PRO

Got access to the VirtualDJ PRO software and need help setting up? This tutorial will guide you through all the steps.

How to stream with SamCast

Learn how to set up your SamCast account with your provided credentials.

How to stream with BUTT Encoder

Streaming with your BUTT encoder has never been so easy. Access the provided tutorial, and you're all set!

SHOUTcast DSP

Having trouble setting up your SHOUTcast account? This step-by-step tutorial will take you by the hand through the whole process.

Use FFMPEG As Encoder for Video Streaming

In this tutorial we describe everything you need to know in order to stream live video with ffmpeg to Primcast servers or any other server that accepts RTMP.

Stream with Audio Hijack on MacOS

Stream with SHOUTcast DSP to deliver live audio to all devices. Follow our tutorial to configure your SHOUTcast DSP encoder with Primcast streaming services.

Where your encoder settings are

Log in to your Primcast dashboard, go to Radio, pick your station and open the Go live tab. The Encoder settings block has every value with a copy button; press Show to see the password.

SettingStraight to your station, every planClosest server, Platinum
Serveryour station's server, for example ny1.radio.primcast.comingest.radio.primcast.com
Portyour station's port14000 (SHOUTcast v1 encoders move to 14001 on their own)
Mount, Icecast/stream/station number/stream
Username, Icecastsourcesource
Passwordyour source passwordthe same password; for SHOUTcast v1 type station number:password
SHOUTcast 2use Legacy (v1) modeStream ID = your station number
DJ loginstheir own settingstheir own Nearest server block

Broadcasting to listeners on more than one continent?

On Platinum, your encoder sends to whichever of our five cities is closest, which relays the show to your station's own server. Listeners are matched to their closest city as well, so your station comes on sooner and buffers less in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, North Africa, West Asia and beyond. Your dashboard fills your station number into these values for you. How our radio CDN works

Choose Platinum Upgrade your station

Keep your encoder at or under your plan's bitrate: Free 32 kbps, Premium 128 kbps, Platinum 320 kbps. Starting 20 October 2026, a Free station's encoder that goes over 32 kbps gets disconnected, and the Encoder settings block shows the reason.

FAQ

Common questions about choosing, configuring, and troubleshooting software audio encoders for live streaming on SHOUTcast and Icecast servers.

Which software encoder is best for beginners?

BUTT (Broadcast Using This Tool) and Mixxx are great starting points for beginners. BUTT is lightweight, easy to configure, and supports both SHOUTcast and Icecast. Mixxx is ideal if you also want DJ mixing features built in. Both have full step-by-step tutorials available on this page.

How do I connect my software encoder to a SHOUTcast or Icecast server?

In your encoder's settings, enter the server, port, mount point and source password from Go live › Encoder settings in your Primcast dashboard; on Platinum, the Nearest server values connect your encoder through our closest server. Most software labels these fields as Host, Port, Password, and Mount. Our tutorials for each encoder walk you through exactly where to find and enter these values.

What bitrate should I use for my audio stream?

For music streaming, 128 kbps MP3 is the most common choice and offers a good balance between quality and bandwidth. If your upload speed allows, 192 kbps or 320 kbps provide higher quality. For talk radio or voice-only streams, 64 kbps is usually sufficient. Set the bitrate in your encoder no higher than your plan allows (32 kbps on Free). Match what your Primcast server plan supports.

Why does my encoder keep disconnecting from the server?

Disconnections are most often caused by an unstable internet connection, a bitrate that exceeds your available upload speed, or a firewall blocking the streaming port. Double-check that your encoder credentials — hostname, port, and password — exactly match those in your Primcast dashboard, and ensure no firewall or router is blocking the port.

Can I use multiple software encoders at the same time?

Generally, only one encoder can connect to a SHOUTcast or Icecast mount point at a time. Connecting a second encoder will typically disconnect the first. If you need multiple sources, your server plan may support relay or multiple mount points — contact Primcast support for guidance on your specific setup.