SAM Broadcaster Pro Encoder and Streaming Setup

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Chapter 6 of 14

Encoders and Streaming in SAM Broadcaster Pro

The encoder takes your audio and delivers it to listeners on the internet. SAM Broadcaster Pro has a built-in encoder that connects directly to SHOUTcast and Icecast streaming servers.

What You Need from Your Streaming Host

Before configuring an encoder, obtain the following from your streaming hosting provider:

  • Server address — e.g. stream.yourhost.com
  • Port number — e.g. 8000
  • Password (source password)
  • Server type — SHOUTcast v1, SHOUTcast v2 or Icecast 2
  • Mount point (Icecast only) — e.g. /stream

Opening the Encoders Panel

  1. Click Window in the menu bar
  2. Select Encoders
  3. The Encoders panel will open in the interface

Adding an Encoder

  1. In the Encoders panel, click the + button to add a new encoder
  2. Select your server type: SHOUTcast v1, SHOUTcast v2 or Icecast 2
  3. Enter your server address and port number
  4. Enter your password
  5. For Icecast 2, enter the mount point
  6. Click Connect

Choosing Your Format and Bitrate

SAM Broadcaster Pro supports the following encoding formats:

  • MP3 (LAME_ENC) — compatible with all players, works with SHOUTcast and Icecast
  • aacPlus v2 — higher quality at lower bitrates, good for mobile listeners
  • OGG Vorbis — open format, works with Icecast 2

Recommended bitrate settings:

  • 64 kbps AAC+ — low bandwidth, good mobile quality
  • 128 kbps MP3 — standard quality, widest compatibility
  • 192 kbps MP3 — higher quality for music-focused stations

Set the sampling rate to 44100 Hz and mode to Stereo.

Testing Your Stream

  1. Start Auto DJ so audio is playing
  2. Connect your encoder
  3. Open your stream URL in VLC, a browser or a mobile phone
  4. Verify audio plays cleanly with no dropouts
  5. Disconnect and reconnect the encoder to confirm auto-reconnect works

Multiple Encoders

SAM Broadcaster Pro supports multiple simultaneous encoders. Add a second encoder using the same + button process with different bitrate or server settings to run a high-quality and low-quality stream at the same time.