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BBC Reopens Ogg Streams

Posted by timothy on from the let-the-goodness-flow dept.

garf writes: "Once again, back by popular demand, the BBC has opened up live streaming of Radio 4, to test with the new codecs, especially for modem users. Hop over here. And for those wishing to listen to Radio 1 try these (link one), (link two). But beware: '[Radio 1 streams] are available sporadically at the moment. Don't be surprised if it cuts off, as I've probably just killed it ready for restarting with different settings.' Please email support to the BBC for their continued support for the ogg format. Happy listening."

3 of 261 comments (clear)

  1. Re:NPR should do this... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Informative

    I understand what you mean. Broadcasting in QuickTime, RealPlayer, or Windows Media on the net is like broadcasting on the waves in a secret format that can only be decoded by one brand of radio receiver.

    But the "radio receiver" is given away for free? Well the "radio receiver" has strange buttons and features that some people can't stand, isn't compatible with your "car" (Operating System), could be tracking what you listen, etc. That doesn't make sense, does it? Well that's exactly what's happening right now with net radio.

    The ogg format, by being documented, is the equivalent of plain radio: everyone can build a receiver.

  2. RC3 needed by mindriot · · Score: 5, Informative

    Note that you need the latest Ogg release (RC3, download here) to play the streams; older versions didn't work for me. They seem to be using some features of Vorbis not available previously (e.g., the web page says, "I've decided to drop Radio 4 to a 32kHz samplerate and use the RC3 'quality' settings instead of enforcing an upper bitrate").

    With RC3, things are working beautifully. Good to see such support for an open, free standard.

  3. Send comments to oggfeedback@bbc.co.uk by fire-eyes · · Score: 5, Informative

    I encourage others to give the BBC positive comments, and encourage them to continue the testing, and beyond.

    Send them to oggfeedback@bbc.co.uk

    Here is what I sent:

    Subject: Thank You! Keep it up!

    Thank you for testing your streaming with ogg. Myself and hundreds of thousands of unix and unix-like operating system users around the world truly appreciate this.

    It's often hard to have faith in large media companies. The BBC has always been the exception in my mind, and here it's shown again.

    This is especially useful being in the USA, as it is very difficult to get your radio programming. I'll surely be listening using ogg frequently.

    I hope the testing goes well, and ogg streaming becomes a future daily stream.

    Good Day

    Yes I know its not just unix / unix-like operating systems.

    --
    -- Note: If you don't agree with me, don't bother replying. I won't read it.