Here is how to start DJing in SL:
1. DOWNLOAD A STREAMING PROGRAM - You will need a program that allows you to stream your music into SL. There are several programs out there and which one you use is up to your preference. Here is a list of some of those programs:
Winamp - A free program although it can be glitchy at times.
SAM Broadcaster - A program prefered by many DJs in SL but it isn't free ($299).
Virtual DJ - It's also not free ($299). This program allows you to create your own mixes.
Rouge Amoeba's Nicecast - A program for Mac users. It is not free but it's not expensive either ($59).
For this post we will be using Winamp since it is for beginners and it is a free program. If you would like information on the other programs, a simple google or youtube search can help you. There is a lot of great tutorials out there for beginners and professional DJs in SL.
2. DOWNLOAD YOUR PLUGINS AND ADJUST YOUR PROGRAM TO YOUR LIKINGS - So you downloaded your program (in this case winamp). Now you will need plugins in order for your program to run in SL, converting your media player program into a streaming application.
In this case we need the SHOUTcast DSP plug in. You MUST have this plugin in order for your winamp to run in SL.
ANOTHER AWESOME PLUGIN - If you don't like for your songs to have a gap in between them (one song finishes and there is a 5-10 second silent wait for the next song to start playing) then you would most likely want to download the crossfade plugin. This plugin fades one song into the next.
There are many other kinds of plugins out there that can allow you to tweak winamp and other streaming programs to your preferences. Research your options.
3. SET UP YOUR PROGRAM TO RUN IN SL - In this case, we will be setting up winamp to run in SL.
- Open up your winamp program.
- Open options/preferences
- A box will pop out with options on the side. Scroll down to where it says PLUG-INS
- Now click on the DPS/Effects
- Now make sure in the main window (not the side box that you have been scrolling through) the DPS plugin you had downloaded is the same one that is selected and clicked on. It will then open the configuration plugin panel.
THIS IS WHERE THE STREAMING HAPPENS =]
4. LOG INTO SL AND GET A STREAM - You need to buy a stream (there are other ways to get a stream but for this post we will just discuss purchasing a stream).
- Open up your search engine in SL and type in "streams". You will see places that read "shoutcast server", "streaming music" and similar references to djing and shoutcast.
- Streams can be purchased for a day, week, month or longer and by the number of listeners you are expected will tune into your DJ set. You can get a stream for as little as $25L a day for about 50 listeners. The more listeners you have tuning in, the higher the cost of a stream.
If you don't know how many listeners will tune into your set, it is best to buy a stream of at least 100 listeners. Once you know your audience, you will know what stream best serves you.
- Once you purchase the stream you want, you will get a notecard, an im or a local chat pop up with the following information:
Encoder Settings
IP=208.86.251.144
Port=3067
Password=TUoHxZJ
Land Media URL=http://208.86.251.144:3067
4. NOW RETURN TO YOUR WINAMP PANEL YOU HAD PREVIOUSLY OPENED UP - You will see tabs that read "main", "output", "encoder", and "input".
- Go under the output tab and enter the stream information you just purchased in SL. The port number under the port. The IP number under the address. The password under password. Your output should be on 1 as well as your encoder. That doesn't change. Make sure that your automatic reconnection is check ON. If somehow your stream drops for any reason, this can ensure its reconnected without you having to go back to your panel and do it manually.
- Go under the encoder tab. You should have Encoder 1, Encoder type should be MP3 and Encoder settings (recommended) should be 128 kbps.
- Go under the input tab. Input device should read "winamp recommended"
- The Land Media information you see under your purchased stream will be used for the music URL inworld. You place this URL under the about land > sound > Music URL, in the land you wish people to hear you on.
HERE ARE TWO GREAT VIDEO TUTORIALS:
I do not own these videos. It is being shared ONLY for educational purposes.
You are now ready to be a beginner DJ BUT keep in mind the legalities.
5. LEGALITIES - You must pay music royalties (although I am certain many people don't do this in SL). If you don't pay royalties you run the risk of getting a lawsuit (although I haven't heard of one yet for any DJ in second life but the possibility does exists you can get one). For music that fall under certain creative common licenses or explicit permission from an artist, paying royalties does not apply. For example, you have a friend that creates their own music and gave you permission to use it in your djing set, unless otherwise stated, you won't have to pay royalties the same goes for albums that have the license mentioned above.
StreamLicensing is a site that offers getting music licensing for a low cost.
6. GET HIRED - Hop around from club to club in SL and feel out the environment. If you come across a place you would enjoy djing for just im the owner, manager, or djs you hear play there and ask if they are hiring. Remember that each club has different requirements. There are clubs that ask for djs that mix, djs that don't just stream (have RL dj equipments), and djs that voice. Have fun and Good Luck! =]
***Legal Disclaimer: ALL of the information provided here has been for educational purposes ONLY. Only You are responsible for checking your computer capabilities and compatibilities with streaming programs. Only You are responsible if anything happens to your computer. The information shared does not ensure that your computer may not run any risks, in fact, if you try these steps you are placing your computer at risk. Stay safe and know what your computer can and cannot handle. Research all of the information shared above.
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