Audio Processing & Sound Shaping in Your Radio Studio

Your Sound Is Your Identity

In radio, your sound is your brand. The moment someone tunes in, they form an opinion — Is this professional? Does it feel alive? Do I want to stay?

At ViaRad.io, we believe that every station — no matter the budget — can craft a sound that’s clear, exciting, and uniquely yours. With the right tools, smart settings, and good-quality audio material, you can sound world-class, even from your home studio.

Let’s explore how.

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📦 Start with the Source: Use Clean Audio Material

Before diving into processing, remember this golden rule:

🧠 Garbage in = garbage out.

Always use high-quality audio files:

• Format: WAV, FLAC, or MP3 320 kbps minimum.

• Avoid YouTube rips or overcompressed files.

• Normalize levels to avoid jumps in volume.

🎶 Your audio processor can polish a diamond — but it can’t fix a broken one.

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⚙️ Set Up Your Encoder & Mount Points Correctly

Your sound travels through two key areas in the streaming chain:

1. 🎛️ Encoder Settings (BUTT, Rocket, etc.)

• Match bitrate, codec, and channels with your server settings.

• Use CBR (Constant Bitrate) to avoid playback issues.

• Recommended sample rate: 44.1 kHz

2. 📍 Mount Point Settings

Access your mount points here:
👉 https://blog.viarad.io/support/kb/articles/jW7oYrWq/mount-points

You can select:

• Format: MP3 or AAC+

• Bitrate: 24 to 320 kbps

• AAC Encoding profile: HE-AAC v2, AAC LC, etc.

💡 Remember: your encoder and mount point must match exactly.

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🧰 Choose the Right Audio Processor

There are powerful tools for every budget — from professional broadcast hardware to free software options.

💻 Software-Based Solutions

• 🔧 Stereo Tool – www.stereotool.com
  The most advanced software processor in the world. Multiband compression, FM simulation, stereo widening, clipper, loudness control — everything.
  → Free version available with basic features.
  → Works as a standalone app or VST plugin.

• 🎛️ Breakaway One – claessonedwards.com
  Optimized for streaming, delivers powerful, clean loudness with easy-to-use presets.

• 🎙️ Audio Hijack (Mac only) – www.rogueamoeba.com/audiohijack
  Real-time processing and effects routing — great for live DJs or podcasters.

💼 High-End Hardware (for big studios)

• 📦 Orban Optimod – www.orban.com
  Industry-standard audio processor. Models like the 5500i or 8700i offer multiband processing, intelligent loudness, and unmatched consistency. See also OPTIMOD-PC 1101e.

• 🎚️ Omnia ONE / Omnia.9 – www.telosalliance.com/omnia
  Clean, open sound with deep customization — used by pro broadcasters worldwide.

💡 You don’t need to start with hardware — many top internet stations use only software and sound fantastic.

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🎛️ EQ & Compression — Shaping Your Signature Sound

Whether you use a processor or your encoder includes EQ/FX tools, here’s a baseline you can build from:

✅ Basic EQ Preset (General Purpose)

✅ Basic Compression Settings

🔒 Always end your chain with a limiter set just below 0 dBFS (e.g., -0.5 dB) to avoid clipping.

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🎨 Sound Profiles: Match Your Style

Each station has a personality. Here’s how to shape yours:

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🧪 Test, Listen, Adjust — Then Listen Again

No processor or EQ can decide for you. You have to listen carefully, on multiple devices:

✅ Studio monitors
✅ Headphones
✅ Smartphones
✅ Car speakers
✅ Low-speed connections (simulate mobile data)

🔁 Try different bitrates and formats.
🎧 Save and compare presets.
🧠 Use your ears — trust them.

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💬 Real Talk: You Can Sound Amazing

It doesn’t matter if you’re broadcasting from your bedroom or a professional studio — great sound is within your reach. It’s not about money — it’s about intention, learning, and testing.

Even small tweaks in EQ or using Stereo Tool’s free version can make a huge difference. Over time, you’ll develop a sound your audience will instantly recognize.

🎙️ Your stream deserves to sound like a brand.
🎯 And with ViaRad.io — you’re already halfway there.