The German public broadcaster Westdeutscher Rundfunk is successfully using Ferncast’s aixtream software to combine internet streaming and DVB multiplexing.
WDR provides a wide-ranging selection of different radio programs in various formats to the German audience. In 2020 it wanted to find a way to perform all internet streaming (Icecast and HLS) and DVB multiplexing on as few individual systems as possible to reduce costs and complexity of logistics. It also wanted to simplify the workflow and operation to reuse the same signal for as many outputs as possible. Ferncast GmbH presented aixtream as a solution.
WDR finished implementing the software in September 2021. WDR now streams 36 different programs with aixtream software, including 1LIVE, WDR2, WDR3, WDR4, WDR5, WDR COSMO, Selektor, Die Maus, WDR Event, WDR VERA.
All the programs are available in multiple formats and quality levels. In total, each program is streamed in at least five formats and qualities. HLS streams are available in three quality levels using adaptive bitrate to adjust to the listener’s circumstances, while Icecast streams are available in at least two quality levels.