Join us!
We’re excited that you’re considering joining our community.
There are a few technical steps to set up before you can start broadcasting, but don’t worry—it may seem challenging at first, but if you take it step by step, it’s quite manageable. We recommend reviewing our FAQ first, as it contains helpful information that can give you an idea of what to expect. And remember, our welcoming community is always here to assist you with any step along the way.
To get started, just reach out to us via the form at the bottom of this page.
Broadcasting FAQ
What do I need to broadcast?
To broadcast on Radio Waters, you’ll need a computer, broadcasting software, a stable internet connection, and a microphone.
How frequently do I need to broadcast?
Radio Waters is a community of DJs. Being an active part of the community is more important than how regular your show might be. If you’re part of our community and have something you want to share occasionally, when life or passion allows, then that’s absolutely fine. We can’t do this without regular DJs, and weekly or monthly shows are embraced, however if you don’t feel like you can commit to a regular show, then we have a place for you as well.
How is the station funded?
We are fully PRS/PPL licensed and so have to pay the fees for this and a few regular operational costs for the streaming service provider, hosting for the website, etc. To fund this we ask for a voluntary monthly contribution from DJs. This can be as little or as much as you like and is absolutely voluntary.
How do I sign up for a show?
Once you’ve been accepted onto the station, we’ll create and send you some login details, then you’ll be able to access our show booking area.
First, check the live schedule and find a free slot. If you’re booking a regular show, then check the future schedule to ensure the schedule remains free. Sometimes a DJ is on holiday so their slot may look free initially but appear at later times.
When you’ve found an empty slot, fill in the form in your schedule management area. The new show is submitted to the Schedule Managers who will review it (usually within 24 hours) and if all is fine, it will be approved and appear on the website.
How will people know about my show?
We will automatically publish details about your show on the website, and if you publish social media content tagging the station, then one of our social manager volunteers will usually share these on the stations social media channels.
We are always short of people to help with social media, so if you would like to get involved (especially with X) then please let us know.
How do I broadcast?
How do I connect to broadcast?
You’ll need some broadcast software on your computer. Depending on whether you use Mac or Windows there are different options:
Mac
Our recommended broadcast software for Mac is Audio Hijack. Although it’s not free, it’s extremely easy to use and very flexible. BUTT is also available as a free option. However can be more tricky to set up, especially if you have particular sound routing requirements.
Windows
The most popular set up for Windows is Shoutcast / Winamp. We have downloads available of these we can share with you. BUTT can also be installed on Windows.
Whichever method you choose, our community has years of experience broadcasting and are always happy to help.
What if there’s a DJ already on air?
You cannot connect when another DJ is already connected, so don’t worry about accidentally interrupting the previous DJ or cutting them off.
There is about a variable lag in broadcasting of up to about 20 seconds between what a DJ is playing and when listeners hear it. So for a smooth change-over, you shouldn’t wait to hear a previous DJ finish before you connect.
Most DJs will let the next DJ know when they’re getting close to disconnecting. You can contact the the preceding DJ in advance to ask them to do this if you’re unsure.
Some broadcast software includes an auto-reconnect, so you can click ‘Connect’ a minute or two before the previous DJ finishes and you’ll see the software change to be connected the moment the previous DJ disconnects. If you don’t have auto-reconnect, you can keep trying the connect button until it connects.
Do I need to update track titles?
Yes, this is very important as PRS or PPL (the music licensing authorities) can require us at any time to submit a full report of all tracks played. The software we broadcast with automatically stores your track titles and produces reports in the correct PRS/PPL format when needed. Also, we show what’s playing on the home page so people can track ID if they wish.
Some broadcasting software will enable you to do auto track titles depending on your DJ set up. This makes things a lot easier, so is worth looking into.
How do I handover to the next DJ?
If handing over to another DJ, then it’s good practice to let them know when you start the last track/about how long is left. Then just disconnect when your show is over.
What do I do with my recorded show?
After you’ve done your show (and recorded it), you need to upload it to two places. The autoDJ (which plays 24/7 when no-one is live) and to Mixcloud. We’ll send you information for how to do this when we send you your login information.
What do I do if I can’t make my next scheduled show?
Use the login to your schedule management area to reschedule or remove a show.
How do I get more listeners?
We are a community station, so come and take part in the community. The more you listen in to other DJs shows, join in with the chat when we’re live and generally get involved, the more people will listen into you.
Get started
Please complete the following form to get started.