BY
KURT HANSON If you've been reading RAIN over
the past few months, you know that we've tried to play a valuable
role in the growth of the webcasting industry.
Our efforts have been funded by the many fine firms who have
sponsored daily issues of RAIN and/or purchased listings
in our "RAIN Vendor Guide" issue last January.
It's their support that has paid the rent and bought groceries (and
bandwidth) for all of us at RAIN, including our crack team
of interns.
Today, I'd like to introduce you to the "RAIN
Vendor Guide Ver. 2.0"
a updated guide to products and services
for broadcasters and webcasters.
And as sponsors of RAIN, you may very well feel that these
are companies that deserve your support!
I'd like to urge you to take a few
minutes today to explore
the listings that follow in the categories that interest you, click
on a few of the links to visit their websites, and perhaps even
pick up the phone and call one
or two of the vendors listed below.
If you do, tell 'em Kurt Hanson and Paul Maloney sent you. Thanks!
Yahoo!
to quit streaming radio stations! Yahoo! Inc., announced Tuesday that it will shut down
services that stream local radio broadcasts over the Web to
reduce expenses, intending to stop the services within a week.
"We really want to focus our efforts on pure Internet radio,''
Yahoo! VP Henry Sohn said. Read more from Bloomberg.comhere,
CNET.com here,
the Wall Street Journalhere(subscription required), or the New York Times here.
Brief
RAIN analysis: Note that the Yahoo!/RIAA deal discussed
yesterday apparently expired at the end of 2001. Thus, Yahoo!
would currently be bound by the terms of the statutory license
announced by the Librarian of Congress last week.
Note also that Yahoo!'s bet on Internet radio is now
not with their $5 billion
acquisition of Broadcast.com but rather with their $12
million of Launch.com. (The purchase price of the
latter acquisition was 1/4 of 1%
of the purchase price of the former.)
Look for a full analysis piece in RAIN tomorrow.
Finally, if you're a vendor yourself
and would like to purchase a listing in today's issue (and in
this guide for the next five weeks), it's
not too late! Please call me at 1-312-527-3879
or e-mail me here
to discuss rates and terms and we'll have your listing included
below in just minutes thereafter.
RAIN's
guide to products and services for broadcasters and webcasters
Hiwire
Hiwire is the foremost developer of advertising solutions
for terrestrial and Internet-only radio stations. Through
its proprietary audio ad insertion network, Hiwire offers
advertisers and broadcasters an online strategy that reaches
consumers and generates revenue.
iM
Networks IM Networks' IM IT Targeted
Ad Insertion Solution enables advertisers to reach Internet
radio listeners beyond the PC. IM IT also enables Internet
radio content providers to earn revenue from each new
additional listener. Contact advertising@imnetworks.com
Lightningcast Lightningcast provides industry-leading
targeted streaming ad insertion technology. Lightningcast's
sales rep arm uses our largest affiliate network to enhance
affiliate revenue. Lightningcast supports Microsoft, Real,
Live, On-Demand, Audio and Video, Netscape and Windows,
download-free. Contact scott@lightningcast.com.
RCS
SplitStream Even targeted ad insertion can sound just
like terrestrial radio with smooth segues, no
delays, no clipping, and no buffering. RCS
SplitStream is available with both RCS Internet products
iSelector and RadioShow.
SoniXtream
(Broadcast Electronics, Inc.) Enter the world of Internet
rich media broadcasting quickly and easily with SoniXtream's
suite of enabling tools. Our web browser-based program
management tools and robust delivery infrastructure allow
you to harness the power of audio to offer an enhanced
experience for your customers.
Spotfarm Spotfarm's hosted ad insertion
services offer an easy to implement turnkey solution for
broadcasters who intend to generate revenue through advertising.
By partnering with Spotfarm, Internet radio stations do
not have to concern themselves with selling, tracking,
and billing and can focus solely on quality content programming.
eSTREAM
(Broadcast Electronics, Inc.)
eSTREAM processes your stations audio so you stream
On air audio quality on the net! through your
favorite streaming media server. Your cyber audience will
experience the powerful new dimension in Internet streamed
audio allowing you to increase revenue by building your
stations cyber audience.
SRSWOWcast
SRSWOWcast Technologies markets hardware and software
products incorporating patented and award-winning SRS
audio enhancement technology. SRS technology makes any
type of compressed audio sound better and allows content
providers to save money. Ask us how!
AudioVAULT
(Broadcast Electronics, Inc.)
AudioVAULT® is the worlds leading digital audio
storage and studio system. Using the industrys most
technically advanced set of hardware and software, AudioVAULT
is configurable for virtually any kind of format, including
live assist, satellite, or complete automation.
Backbone
Radio Easy to use automated live
Internet radio station production and streaming software.
QuickTime based, available from low cost "Basic"
to scalable "Pro." Includes full DMCA logging
& reporting.
RCS
Master Control with Internet Voice Tracking The World's only Selector-smart on air automation
system featuring our patented "Internet Voice Tracking"(do
your show from home), the "Living Log", Hot
Keys®, and the award-winning Log-Linked Web Browser
(any log item can be linked to individual sites).
AdNext
Advertising and revenue management software for your
Web site. This specialized software suite puts the power
in your hands to manage all aspects of advertising and
local market revenue generation. AdNext tools can work
for you regardless of your hosting partner and whether
or not your site has banner ads.
NAB
Radio Show The largest show focused exclusively
on Radio delivers the expertise you rely on combined with
the technology you cant afford to miss. This year
Seattle creates the perfect backdrop to host the cutting-edge
trends and career-building strategies that are part of
The Power of Radio. (September 12-14, 2002; Seattle, WA)
NAB
European Radio Conference Join hundreds of broadcasters
and industry professionals in Prague for three days of
vision-forming experiences. For 10 years the NAB European
Radio Conference has brought broadcasters together to
exchange ideas, introduce new concepts and network with
business partners. (October 20-22, Prague Hilton.)
Plug.IN In its 7th year, Plug.IN thrives
longer than most music careers. Every summer since 1996
the music industry has converged on New York City for
the discussions, data and debate that characterize Plug.IN.
Why? Because digital distribution changes every link in
the value chain. The mic is live. The amps are hot. Get
ready to sound off. Plug.IN: The Future of Music
BRS
Media BRS Media Inc. assists radio
in building and branding on the of the Net. Online divisions
include dotFM, dotAM, & dotzCD domain registrar of
.FM, .AM, & .CD (TLD) domains. WEBCASTi AM/FM, providing
the best webcasting solution and My Radio.FM, a .FM Radio
Station" service, and the ever-popular Web-Radio
portal.
First
MediaWorks We are the broadcast industry's
dominant provider of Internet marketing products, training
and consulting serving more than 1500 stations on five
continents. We help radio stations meet ratings and revenue
goals.
Hanson
Consulting
Whatever issues you're facing regarding radio and the
Internet, RAIN publisher Kurt Hanson can add an
extra ear and a fresh perspective! ("Works well with
all major consultants.") Free two-hour seminar
for your staff and/or your clients on the long-term future
of Internet radio with your initial consulting visit.
SABO
media
Sabo Media assists top media management in building compelling
content. For radio stations, we work with General Managers
and Program Directors to make better shows and win larger
audiences. For publishers, such as The Wall
Street Journal, PARADE magazine and National Geographic
we get their original stories showcased in other media.
Websites are brought alive by Sabo media's "sticky"
content. Family attractions build bigger crowds with our
fresh marketing plans. Sabo Media gives your product and
marketing team a new, fresh, always pragmatic arsenal
of custom ideas. Bottom line: The bottom line improves.
Sabo Media saves you time and money.
FMiTV
FMiTV is the leading syndicator of broadband entertainment
content on the Internet today. We provide your site with
interviews of the biggest stars in Hollywood, movie trailers,
music videos, fashion shows, extreme sports and engaging
promotions branded as your own. FMiTV can give you an
instant "broadband in a box" entertainment solution,
requiring no technical expertise or time on your part!
LMiV
Created by broadcasters for broadcasters, LMiV is an independent
media company providing on-line programming to help local
radio stations build relationships, ratings and revenue
via the Internet. Contact Terri Simpson at LMiV for the
content package that works best for your station's website
(terri.simpson@lmiv.com;
317-679-4395) .
MJI
Interactive MJI Interactive offers RockNews.com, RockDaily.com,
ClassicRockDaily.com, CountryNow.com, StarSpash.com, Hitpage.com,
and SiteFuel Oldies. Each updated daily with news and
features precisely targeted. Variety of branding and customization
options. Market-exclusive barter services.
RadioWebStuff Interested in a complete turnkey
Internet solution for radio? Features include a simple,
powerful platform that requires no HTML, along with outstanding
content that includes music news, music features, games,
movie reviews, side channels plus streaming audio and
video content. Call (661) 253-9750.
XACT
Media XACT Media provides Branded
Custom Internet Radio, Multimedia CD-ROMs, Instant Wireless
Messaging and related revenue programs to radio stations,
consumer brands and record labels/artists. Over 40 affiliates
are using XACT Media services. Please call David Juris
at 303-302-9410.
The
Iceberg Iceberg Media.com's corporate
radio channels provide a total broadcast solution featuring:
Customized streamed audio, Creative and Strategic Consultation,
Creative media player design, promotions, Ad insertion
and more. Put your Web site and the power of music together,
and your brand comes alive.
Moontaxi
Moontaxi provides programmed and on-demand licensed music,
cleared for use on the Internet. We create custom web-only
music channels that can be used to highlight certain programming
segments or broaden the appeal of a radio station, as
well as turnkey private label on-demand music services
that can be monetized either through advertising or user
fees.
RCS
iSelector Fully branded player, both visual and audio. Listeners
create customized streams of your station's music, and
can play artists MORE or LESS or BAN them based on their
preferences. Visualizations of album art and links to
your station's or any music warehouse.
XACT
Media XACT Media provides Branded
Custom Internet Radio, Multimedia CD-ROMs, Instant Wireless
Messaging and related revenue programs to radio stations,
consumer brands and record labels/artists. Over 40 affiliates
are using XACT Media services. Please call David Juris
at 303-302-9410.
Dot
FM dotFM registers domain names
that end in .fm. dotFM is THE Premium Multimedia Domain
Name for today's Interactive Web. Get a Great Sounding
Web Address @ www.dot.fm
MediaSpan
MediaSpan provides broadcasters with fully-integrated
on-air/online solutions that increase value to listeners
and advertisers. Our e-commerce product offerings include
our loyal listener RadioPoints program, nTunes Music &
Video Stores, Event and Charity Auction programs and online
marketplace and classifieds.
Susquehanna
Technologies
The SusQtech back office suite empowers "radio people"
to create business benefit for your organization. Our
solutions focus on listener loyalty, contesting/promotion
tools, permission marketing, demographic reporting, and
content management. If cash flow is as important as cool
stuff, please contact
us to to learn how we can help your radio business
prosper.
Dat-e-Base
(Presslaff Interactive Revenue) Experienced, hands-on marketing expertise and easy
to use product combine to help you build relationships
and revenue with your e-mail marketing efforts. D-e-B
is recognized for its sophistication; PIR for its impeccable
customer service. Cash/Barter. E-mail ruth@presslaff.com
for more information.
E-Mail
Director Ease of use, immediate access to listener data
and messaging tools make EMD Radios #1 Choice. Rich
media authoring is radically simplified. NTR powerhouse
for stations of any size. Barter service.
FMW
eListenerSuite eListenerSuite gives
you the tactical advantage you need to ensure you've effectively
reinforced your brand and the perception of extensive
time spent listening.
RadioWebStuff Successful one-to-one interaction
is not based on technology; it is based on providing outstanding
content and value to listeners and clients. Our extensive
background in radio programming, marketing, sales and
promotion can help build the permission/trust paradigm,
reinforce your brand and generate revenue.
LMiV
Created by broadcasters for broadcasters, LMiV is an independent
media company providing on-line programming to help local
radio stations build relationships, ratings and revenue
via the Internet. Contact Terri Simpson at LMiV for the
content package that works best for your station's website
(terri.simpson@lmiv.com;
317-679-4395) .
Radio
Web Network
Radio Web Network consults, develops, manages, and sells
radio station websites. Using a sales system that has
been 100% effective in every market they serve, Radio
Web Network guarantees revenue generation for its affiliates
while supplying them with advanced online technologies
for increased ratings and revenues. Technologies and events
are also available on a 'needle drop' basis. Contact Rich
Carr at rcarr@radiowebnetwork.com
or 1-503-612-9925.
IM
Networks IM Networks' proven client,
service, and content infrastructure enables you to quickly
add reliable, high-quality, broadband Internet tuning
to your product lines. Current licensees include Philips,
Panasonic and Creative Labs. Contact sales@imnetworks.com
CPR
Internetwork
Christian Pirate Radio (CPR), the #1 Internet-only Christian
music station (www.mycpr.com) has launched the CPR Internetwork!
Without any upfront investment, CPR Internetwork subscriber
stations have their own personalized seven-channel Christian
web music station as a value-added to advertisers and
an added attraction to listeners. For more information,
contact Kenny Dowe at RadioMayday@aol.com or call 972-293-4420.
Fairwest
Direct
Loyalty Marketing is a weapon not to be played with. Working
with such legends as; Tracy Johnson, Greg Strassell, Steve
Kingston, Bev Tilden, Jimmy deCastro, Jeff McClusky, John
Ivey, Sammy Simpson, Dave Charles and dozens of other
programming guru's, we bring a well tested, full service
level of experience not found anywhere else!
FMW
eListenerSuite Great radio stations understand
that their website is a doorway through which they can
reach out to their most important listener who is already
highly engaged with the station the P1 listener
contributing the most Time Spent Listening.
MediaSpan
RadioPoints
RadioPoints is an integrated on-air/online program that
generates real value for your local advertisers, listeners
and the station. We provide you with the tools, training
and station control to maximize your sales packages, drive
new spot revenue, increase TSL, and incorporate RadioPoints
into your promotions, remotes and on-air activities.
StickyFish
StickyFish has redefined loyalty marketing by offering
the industry's most complete service at an affordable
price. And with StickyFish, NTR comes from being part
of a national network of individual reward sites, not
by making your local sales team jump through hoops. Clients
include Clear Channel, Infinity, Entercom stations and
others.
Susquehanna
Technologies
The SusQtech back office suite empowers "radio people"
to create business benefit for your organization. Our
solutions focus on listener loyalty, contesting/promotion
tools, permission marketing, demographic reporting, and
content management. If cash flow is as important as cool
stuff, please contact
us to to learn how we can help your radio business
prosper.
BMI
BMI is an American performing rights organization that
represents approximately 300,000 songwriters, composers
and music publishers in all genres of music. BMI's roster
of affiliated songwriters and composers is unsurpassed
and includes outstanding creators in every style of
musical composition.
IM
Networks The IM Band is the only reliable,
cross-vendor, one-stop solution to profitably reach consumers
beyond the PC on a range of consumer electronics devices.
Contact bestofplanet@imnetworks.com
Live365 Listening and advertising solutions
presented by the worlds largest network of independently-produced
audio content from talk, comedy and news to every
genre of music, ever!
FMW
RevenueSuite RevenueSuite is a family of
easy-to-use turnkey products and services that can be
attached to any website, anywhere, regardless of where
it is hosted. Products designed to deliver significant
new sources of non-spot revenue
MediaSpan
MediaSpan provides broadcasters with fully-integrated
on-air/online solutions that increase value to listeners
and advertisers. Our NTR product offerings include our
loyal listener RadioPoints program, revenue generating
turn-key promotions, Event and Charity Auction programs
and contest technology, such as our Fan Frenzy college
basketball tournament promotion.
Occupation
Station
Occupation Station is a powerful alternative revenue
source for radio. Our proven turnkey employment centers
allow any station in any market to compete with the newspaper
for local employment classified dollars.
XACT
Media XACT Media provides Branded
Custom Internet Radio, Multimedia CD-ROMs, Instant Wireless
Messaging and related revenue programs to radio stations,
consumer brands and record labels/artists. Over 40 affiliates
are using XACT Media services. Please call David Juris
at 303-302-9410.
Net
Music Promotions
Net Music Promotions works with major and independent
record labels, managers, music publishers and artists
to promote their music online. Net Music Promotions' online
marketing specialty is promotion to online streamers and
marketing/promotion/ positioning with all major consumer
music sites.
RadioWebStuff We have developed an extensive
eDistribution system targeted specifically to the radio
industry. We can help you reach radio decision makers
with rich media campaigns that showcase your artist. And
we can create and distribute content offerings that are
uniquely designed to reach music consumers via radio websites.
RAIN:
Radio And Internet Newsletter "RAIN: Radio And Internet
Newsletter" is a web-based publication dedicated
to helping you keep up-to-date on the latest issues
involving radio and its relationship to the Internet.
(If you're a vendor, our "Full-site
Sponsorship"is the best way to
reach the decision-makers in the radio and Internet
radio fields!)
Occupation
Station
Occupation Station is a powerful alternative revenue
source for radio. Our proven turnkey employment centers
allow any station in any market to compete with the newspaper
for local employment classified dollars.
Backbone
Radio Easy to use automated live
Internet radio station production and streaming software.
QuickTime based, available from low cost "Basic"
to scalable "Pro." Includes full DMCA logging
& reporting.
RCS
Sound Software Selector® and Linker® provide numerous additional
information fields in each data record, such as ISRC number,
and also provide report generators for all major copyright
authorities and rights collection agencies worldwide.
Arbitron With more than 50 years experience
conducting media research, Arbitron Webcast Services provides
regular industry studies and webcast measurement services
to help this new medium solidity its position as a powerful
new advertising channel. All of Arbitrons' studies can
downloaded for free from the company's web site.
MeasureCast
MeasureCast, Inc. is the first company to provide Internet
broadcasters, advertisers and media buyers with next-day
reports on streaming audience size and demographics
information critical to evaluating and placing streaming
media advertising.
The
Media Audit
The Media Audit provides website audience ratings for
local radio stations, television stations, daily newspapers,
alternative newsweeklies and city guides in 85 US markets.
These web measurements cover past 30 day, past week
and yesterday visits and are currently being used by
more than 200 local online clients.
TroyResearch
TroyResearch provides custom research approaches for entertainment
and media industry companies, including Internet-based
music, perceptual and focus group research for radio stations.
STRATA
Marketing, Inc.
STRATA develops premier software for the media industry.
Do you want a faster, more powerful way to present your
stations reach to potential advertisers? Would you
like your software to combine ratings analysis with word
processing, desktop publishing and graphic capabilities?
Its all here in STRATA Radio! STRATA Radio is designed
specifically to help radio stations promote their advantage
over other media!
RealNetworks RealNetworks, Inc. is the global
leader in Internet media delivery. It develops and markets
software products and services designed to enable users
of personal computers and other consumer electronic devices
to send and receive audio, video and other multimedia
services using the Web.
Windows
Media Microsoft® Windows Media
is the platform of choice for broadcasters delivering
live or on-demand audio and video over the Internet.
Over 3,000 radio and television broadcast stations currently
use Windows Media for its high quality audio and video
and integrated digital rights management.