About
NextKast is professional radio automation software designed to replace multiple tools with a single, reliable all-in-one system. It serves internet radio stations, LPFM broadcasters, and full-power FM/AM/HD terrestrial stations — offering everything from music scheduling and playout to voice tracking, audio processing, and streaming encoding without complicated database setup or add-on purchases. The platform features a built-in music scheduler with real-time rotation modes and audience-pleaser settings based on tune-in/tune-out statistics. Real-time automatic cross-fading and silence removal mean audio files require no pre-processing before import. The StudioLink Voice Tracking system allows on-air talent to record voice tracks in-studio or remotely via a browser-based interface, with no local software required. A built-in podcast rendering engine lets creators produce full one-hour radio-style shows complete with voice tracks and music in minutes. NextKast streams directly to Shoutcast, Icecast, and Live365 servers through its integrated encoder and supports DSP and VST audio plugins for advanced processing. It runs on Windows 7, 10, and 11, including cloud Windows VPS environments. Supported audio formats include MP3, WAV, AIFF, OGG, M4A, MP2, FLAC, MOV, and MP4. Trusted by broadcasters at major venues like the San Diego Zoo, community radio stations across the US and Canada, and professionals with iHeart Radio backgrounds, NextKast is purpose-built for anyone who needs a station-ready system without the complexity.
Key Features
- Built-In Music Scheduler: Full-featured music rotation and scheduling system with real-time rotation mode and audience-pleaser settings, eliminating the need for third-party scheduling software.
- StudioLink Remote Voice Tracking: Browser-based voice tracking system that allows on-air talent to record and edit voice tracks in-studio or remotely without installing any local software.
- Integrated Streaming Encoder: Built-in encoder streams directly to Shoutcast, Icecast, or Live365 servers with no external encoding software required.
- Podcast Rendering Engine: Create full one-hour radio-style podcast episodes with voice tracks and music in minutes, replacing traditional audio editing programs for pre-recorded shows.
- Advanced Audio Processing: Real-time automatic cross-fading, silence removal, and support for DSP and VST audio plugins for professional broadcast-quality sound.
Use Cases
- Automating a 24/7 internet radio station with music scheduling and live streaming to Shoutcast or Icecast servers
- Running an LPFM or full-power FM/AM broadcast station with integrated playout, traffic scheduling, and encoding
- Producing pre-recorded radio shows and podcasts with voice tracks and music without external audio editing software
- Enabling distributed DJ teams to remotely voice track live shows via browser from multiple locations across the country
- Managing in-store audio and background music scheduling for retail environments and public venues
Pros
- True All-in-One System: Combines music scheduling, playout, encoding, voice tracking, and audio processing in one package — no extras or bolt-ons needed.
- Fast Setup with Simple Interface: Clean drag-and-drop interface lets stations get up and running in minutes without complex database configuration.
- Flexible Remote Voice Tracking: Browser-based StudioLink allows distributed talent to voice track shows from anywhere with no local software installation required.
- Proven by Professional Broadcasters: Trusted by stations at the San Diego Zoo, former iHeart Radio engineers, and community broadcasters across the US and Canada.
Cons
- Windows Only: NextKast runs exclusively on Windows (7/10/11) and Windows VPS environments, with no native support for macOS or Linux.
- Broadcast-Specific Use Case: Purpose-built for radio station automation, making it less suited for general audio production or non-broadcast content creation.
- Paid License Required: Requires a paid subscription or license, which may be a barrier for hobbyists or very small-scale internet radio operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of radio stations can use NextKast?
NextKast supports internet radio stations, LPFM broadcasters, and full-power FM/AM/HD terrestrial stations. Dedicated versions are available for each use case, including NextKast OnAir for LPFM and for Full Power Terrestrial.
Does NextKast require additional software for encoding or scheduling?
No. NextKast is a true all-in-one system with a built-in music scheduler, playout engine, and streaming encoder — no extra tools or purchases are required.
Which streaming servers does NextKast support?
NextKast's built-in encoder supports streaming directly to Shoutcast, Icecast, and Live365 servers.
Can voice tracking be done remotely?
Yes. The StudioLink Voice Tracking feature is fully browser-based, allowing talent to record and manage voice tracks from any location without installing local software.
What audio file formats does NextKast support?
NextKast supports a wide range of formats including MP3, WAV, AIFF, OGG, M4A, MP2, FLAC, MOV, and MP4 audio.
