Radio-frequency-based receivers may soon be a thing of the past.
A new trend is rapidly emerging that is changing the way we listen to radio. Internet streaming radio is fast becoming an attractive alternative for many people and has several advantages over conventional radio. Anyone with a computer and Internet connection can tune in to thousands of radio stations all over the world. Many major radio stations now broadcast online, which means listening to some authentic Chicago jazz or a bit of legendary Los Angeles hip-hop is just a few mouse clicks away. There are also several Internet-only stations that deliver commercial-free content in every imaginable genre. This is especially useful for laptop users on the go, as it eliminates the need to stockpile a huge library of music.
Instructions
1. Download and install the latest updates for your browser's sound card as well as Media Player by visiting their respective websites. This will ensure your system is up to "spec" and meets the latest minimum software requirements.
2. Open Windows Media Player and click on the "radio" button in the upper righthand corner. This will launch a list of available audio streams. Make a selection and it will begin playing. To pause playback or select another feed, simply use the player's built-in control console.
3. Browse to your favorite radio station's website (local or abroad) and click the "Listen live" link. Make sure your pop-up block is disabled, as a new browser window will open and begin playing the stream. The content you hear will be the same as if you were actually in that city listening to the station.
4. Visit one of the many Internet-based streaming-radio websites, such as Shoutcast or Choiceradio, where you can choose from dozens of genres and available stations. These stations often broadcast from a user's home computer and feature unique content. A 32- or 64-kbps (kilobits per second) stream is typically sufficient for talk radio. However, when listening to music, a bit rate of 128kbps or higher is recommended for CD-quality stereo sound.
5. Adjust the equalizer and environment settings found in the audio device's control panel based on your preferences and listening area.
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