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AutoDJ is one of SHOUTcast’s most useful features, allowing you to broadcast music or other pre-recorded content automatically without being connected to the server live all the time. This is perfect for keeping your station running 24/7 and ensuring your listeners always have something to enjoy.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through configuring AutoDJ in SHOUTcast, step-by-step.

Why Use AutoDJ?

• 24/7 Broadcasting – Keep your station online even when you’re offline.
• Bandwidth Saving – Your music streams directly from the server, not your PC.
• Professional Presentation – No gaps or silence for your listeners.
• Scheduling Flexibility – Preload playlists and let the system handle the rest.

Step 1: Log into Your SHOUTcast Control Panel

1. Go to your SHOUTcast hosting account’s control panel.
2. Enter your username and password.
3. Look for the AutoDJ Management section.

> Tip: If you’re with Sternhost, you can access SHOUTcast AutoDJ from your client area for quick setup.

Step 2: Enable AutoDJ

1. In the control panel, find the AutoDJ status.
2. Click Enable AutoDJ if it’s currently off.
3. Select your preferred bitrate and streaming format (MP3 or AAC+).

Step 3: Upload Your Music Files

1. Go to the Media Library or File Manager.
2. Upload MP3 files (make sure they are properly tagged with artist/title).
3. Keep your file names organized for easy playlist creation.

Step 4: Create Your Playlist

1. Navigate to Playlist Manager.
2. Create a new playlist and give it a name (e.g., “Main Rotation”).
3. Add your uploaded tracks to the playlist.
4. Set the playback order — Shuffle, Loop, or Sequential.

Step 5: Configure Playlist Settings

1. Choose General Rotation for regular play or Scheduled for specific times.
2. If you want announcements, add Jingles between tracks.
3. Save your playlist.

Step 6: Start AutoDJ

1. Go to the AutoDJ control screen.
2. Click Start AutoDJ.
3. Wait for the server to begin streaming your playlist.

Step 7: Test Your Stream

• Open your station’s public streaming link.
• Make sure your AutoDJ is playing the correct music without interruptions.
• Adjust volume, crossfade, or track order if needed.

Troubleshooting AutoDJ Issues

• No Sound? – Ensure your files are in MP3 format and properly encoded.
• Playlist Won’t Play? – Check that AutoDJ is started and assigned to your mount point.
• Tracks Skipping? – Re-upload files or check for corrupted MP3s.

Conclusion

Setting up AutoDJ in SHOUTcast is an easy way to keep your internet radio active and professional. With the right playlists and scheduling, your station can run smoothly 24/7 without you having to be live all the time.

If you’re hosting with Sternhost, our SHOUTcast hosting plans come with an easy-to-use AutoDJ feature, fast uploads, and 99.9% uptime — perfect for keeping your listeners tuned in.