Test a stream before publishing

A station is only useful if it plays. The stream tester in the station editor lets you check a stream in seconds, before visitors ever see it.

Test a stream#

1. Open the station in TuneSera → Stations, or click Add New Station.
2. In Station details → General, paste the address into Stream URL.
3. Click Test. The button shows Connecting… while TuneSera tries the stream.
4. If you hear audio and see Stream is playing., the stream works. Click Stop to end the test.

Testing only plays the stream in your browser. It doesn’t change or save the station.

If the test fails#

You will see The stream could not be played. Check the URL. Common causes:

• It’s a web page, not a stream. The Stream URL must point to the audio itself, such as an Icecast or SHOUTcast link, not the station’s website or a player page. Look for a link ending in something like /stream, .mp3, .aac or .m3u8.
• HTTP on an HTTPS site. Browsers often block insecure (http://) streams on secure sites. TuneSera warns you: “HTTP streams may be blocked on HTTPS sites.” Use the station’s HTTPS stream if it has one.
• The station is offline or the stream address has changed. Check the station’s website for the current link.
• The stream blocks outside players or uses a format your browser can’t play.

Try the stream in a different browser before giving up. Some formats play in one browser but not another.

Related articles#

• Add and edit stations
• Station fields reference
• A station won’t play