Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlayoutONE - Modern radio automation software for scheduling playlists, commercials, news, and live assists across multiple stations.
- 2#2: Zetta - Professional broadcast automation platform providing scheduling, logging, and multi-site management for radio stations.
- 3#3: PlayIt Live - Versatile live assist and automation tool for seamless playlist management, cart playback, and streaming integration.
- 4#4: WideOrbit - Integrated radio management system handling traffic, billing, scheduling, and playout for large broadcast networks.
- 5#5: Dalet Radio Suite - End-to-end radio production and playout solution with MAM, scheduling, and multi-platform delivery capabilities.
- 6#6: NexGen Digital - Scalable digital radio automation for continuous playout, live integration, and remote control.
- 7#7: RadioBoss - Affordable automation software for creating schedules, playing music, ads, and streaming radio stations.
- 8#8: SAM Broadcaster Pro - Internet radio automation with playlist scheduling, auto DJ, and professional streaming features.
- 9#9: NextKast - Cloud-based radio playout system for remote scheduling, logging, and multi-station management.
- 10#10: StationPlaylist Studio - Reliable low-cost automation for playlists, carts, live assists, and streaming in small to medium stations.
Evaluation focused on core features (e.g., scheduling, playout, live assist), usability, technical reliability, and value, ensuring alignment with the varied requirements of small, medium, and large broadcast operations.
Comparison Table
Radio automation software enhances broadcasting efficiency, and this comparison table examines key tools—including PlayoutONE, Zetta, PlayIt Live, WideOrbit, Dalet Radio Suite, and more—to help users evaluate features, workflows, and suitability for their specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlayoutONE Modern radio automation software for scheduling playlists, commercials, news, and live assists across multiple stations. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 2 | Zetta Professional broadcast automation platform providing scheduling, logging, and multi-site management for radio stations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | PlayIt Live Versatile live assist and automation tool for seamless playlist management, cart playback, and streaming integration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | WideOrbit Integrated radio management system handling traffic, billing, scheduling, and playout for large broadcast networks. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Dalet Radio Suite End-to-end radio production and playout solution with MAM, scheduling, and multi-platform delivery capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | NexGen Digital Scalable digital radio automation for continuous playout, live integration, and remote control. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | RadioBoss Affordable automation software for creating schedules, playing music, ads, and streaming radio stations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 8 | SAM Broadcaster Pro Internet radio automation with playlist scheduling, auto DJ, and professional streaming features. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | NextKast Cloud-based radio playout system for remote scheduling, logging, and multi-station management. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 10 | StationPlaylist Studio Reliable low-cost automation for playlists, carts, live assists, and streaming in small to medium stations. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 9.2/10 |
Modern radio automation software for scheduling playlists, commercials, news, and live assists across multiple stations.
Professional broadcast automation platform providing scheduling, logging, and multi-site management for radio stations.
Versatile live assist and automation tool for seamless playlist management, cart playback, and streaming integration.
Integrated radio management system handling traffic, billing, scheduling, and playout for large broadcast networks.
End-to-end radio production and playout solution with MAM, scheduling, and multi-platform delivery capabilities.
Scalable digital radio automation for continuous playout, live integration, and remote control.
Affordable automation software for creating schedules, playing music, ads, and streaming radio stations.
Internet radio automation with playlist scheduling, auto DJ, and professional streaming features.
Cloud-based radio playout system for remote scheduling, logging, and multi-station management.
Reliable low-cost automation for playlists, carts, live assists, and streaming in small to medium stations.
PlayoutONE
enterpriseModern radio automation software for scheduling playlists, commercials, news, and live assists across multiple stations.
Studio Remote: Full browser-based control of playout, scheduling, and mixing from any device, anywhere.
PlayoutONE is a comprehensive radio automation software platform designed for broadcast stations, offering seamless playout, scheduling, music logging, voice-tracking, and streaming capabilities. It supports both cloud-based and on-premise deployments, enabling multi-studio networks to manage operations efficiently from anywhere. With advanced features like RDS encoding, compliance reporting, and remote studio control, it streamlines workflows for 24/7 broadcasting while ensuring regulatory adherence.
Pros
- Highly reliable 24/7 playout engine with minimal downtime
- Intuitive interface and remote control via web browser
- Scalable for single stations to large networks with strong integration options
Cons
- Advanced analytics and custom scripting require higher-tier plans
- Initial setup may need technical expertise for complex multi-site configs
- Limited built-in support for some niche legacy hardware
Best For
Professional radio stations and networks seeking a robust, scalable automation solution with excellent reliability and remote accessibility.
Pricing
Free for single studio (basic features); paid plans start at £19/month per studio, scaling to enterprise levels with full features and support.
Zetta
enterpriseProfessional broadcast automation platform providing scheduling, logging, and multi-site management for radio stations.
Modular, redundant engine with automatic failover ensuring uninterrupted playout even during maintenance or failures
Zetta by Ross Video is a professional-grade radio automation software suite designed for broadcast stations, enabling automated playlist scheduling, voice tracking, and live assist modes. It supports multi-station operations with seamless integration into traffic systems, AoIP audio networking, and comprehensive logging for compliance and reporting. The platform emphasizes reliability with redundant servers and failover capabilities, making it suitable for 24/7 operations in commercial radio environments.
Pros
- Rock-solid reliability with redundant architecture and no single point of failure
- Extensive integration options including Livewire+, traffic systems, and remote voice-over-IP
- Scalable from single stations to large networks with web-based remote control
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users due to its enterprise complexity
- High initial setup and hardware requirements
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small independent stations
Best For
Mid-to-large radio groups and professional broadcasters needing robust, scalable automation for high-stakes 24/7 operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $5,000+ per station annually plus hardware, with volume discounts for groups.
PlayIt Live
specializedVersatile live assist and automation tool for seamless playlist management, cart playback, and streaming integration.
Integrated multi-streaming encoders for simultaneous broadcast to Icecast, Shoutcast, and major platforms without external tools
PlayIt Live by Radio42 is a professional radio automation software that enables seamless playlist scheduling, live broadcasting, and multi-platform streaming for internet radio stations. It supports advanced features like live assist mode, cartwall for sound effects and jingles, and remote control via web interface. The modular design allows users to start with a free core version and expand with paid add-ons for enhanced functionality.
Pros
- Free core version with professional-grade automation and streaming
- Seamless blend of automated playlists and live mixing
- Robust multi-channel support and low-latency audio handling
Cons
- Dated user interface requiring adaptation
- Steep learning curve for full feature mastery
- Advanced modules require additional paid licenses
Best For
Experienced broadcasters and internet radio operators seeking reliable, customizable automation with live control capabilities.
Pricing
Free core edition; premium modules (e.g., Pro, Cartwall Pro) start at €99 one-time or subscription options.
WideOrbit
enterpriseIntegrated radio management system handling traffic, billing, scheduling, and playout for large broadcast networks.
End-to-end revenue workflow integration that unifies sales orders, scheduling, and on-air delivery in one platform.
WideOrbit is a comprehensive broadcast management platform specializing in radio automation, traffic scheduling, and revenue optimization for radio stations and networks. It automates commercial playout, music scheduling, logging, and integrates with sales and billing systems to streamline operations. The software supports both on-premise and cloud deployments, catering to enterprise-scale broadcasters with robust reporting and compliance tools.
Pros
- Deep integration of traffic, billing, and playout automation
- Scalable for large radio groups with multi-station support
- Advanced analytics and revenue forecasting tools
Cons
- Complex setup and steep learning curve
- High cost for smaller stations
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
Best For
Enterprise radio networks and station groups needing integrated traffic management and automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $5,000–$20,000+ per station annually depending on modules and scale.
Dalet Radio Suite
enterpriseEnd-to-end radio production and playout solution with MAM, scheduling, and multi-platform delivery capabilities.
Seamless integration of MAM with live-assist playout for unified radio workflows
Dalet Radio Suite is a professional-grade radio automation platform that streamlines end-to-end workflows for broadcasters, from content ingestion and production to scheduling, live-assisted playout, and multi-platform distribution. It integrates robust media asset management (MAM) with automation tools, supporting voice tracking, newsroom operations, and remote collaboration. Designed for scalability, it handles high-volume operations across single stations or networks, with cloud and on-premise deployment options.
Pros
- Comprehensive MAM integration for efficient asset handling
- Reliable multi-channel playout and scheduling automation
- Scalable for enterprise-level radio networks
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- High implementation and customization costs
- Overkill for small or independent stations
Best For
Enterprise radio broadcasters and networks needing integrated production, automation, and asset management at scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on deployment size, features, and support; typically starts at several thousand dollars per month for mid-sized setups—contact Dalet for quotes.
NexGen Digital
enterpriseScalable digital radio automation for continuous playout, live integration, and remote control.
Selector's advanced music scheduling engine with AI-driven rotations, artist separation, and commercial avoidance optimization
NexGen Digital, part of Imagine Communications, offers a robust suite of radio automation software including Zetta for on-air playback and production, Selector for intelligent music scheduling, and supporting tools like GriP for news and traffic integration. It streamlines operations for radio stations by automating playlists, logging airchecks, managing voice tracking, and ensuring FCC compliance across single stations or large networks. With a focus on reliability and scalability, it's trusted by enterprise broadcasters for handling complex multi-site deployments.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration between music scheduling (Selector) and automation (Zetta)
- Strong compliance logging and reporting for regulatory needs
- Scalable for large networks with multi-station management
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface requiring extensive training
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small stations
- Limited native cloud/mobile features compared to modern competitors
Best For
Large radio groups and enterprise broadcasters needing scalable, feature-rich automation for multiple stations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing with annual subscriptions; typically starts at $10,000+ per station depending on configuration and scale—contact for quotes.
RadioBoss
specializedAffordable automation software for creating schedules, playing music, ads, and streaming radio stations.
Powerful event scheduler with calendar-based programming for precise automation of music, ads, and voice tracks
RadioBoss by DJSoft.net is a Windows-based radio automation software designed for managing automated playback on internet radio stations and small broadcasters. It offers playlist scheduling, voice tracking, commercial insertion, and live assist modes, with support for streaming to Shoutcast, Icecast, and other servers. The software handles multiple decks for seamless transitions and integrates RDS and HTTP streaming capabilities.
Pros
- Affordable one-time licensing with excellent value for small stations
- Reliable scheduling and multi-format support including MP3, FLAC, and WAV
- Built-in streaming encoders for easy online broadcasting
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern alternatives
- Windows-only, lacking cross-platform support
- Limited advanced analytics and remote management features
Best For
Ideal for budget-conscious hobbyists, community radio operators, or small internet stations needing straightforward automation without high costs.
Pricing
One-time purchase: Standard $119.95, Advanced $199.95, Corporate $299.95; 150-day free trial available.
SAM Broadcaster Pro
specializedInternet radio automation with playlist scheduling, auto DJ, and professional streaming features.
Advanced multi-layer playlist system with precise rotation logic and gap-killer for seamless transitions
SAM Broadcaster Pro is a professional-grade radio automation software from Spacial Audio, designed for internet radio stations to handle automated playlists, live broadcasting, and 24/7 operations seamlessly. It features advanced scheduling with rotation rules, voice tracking, a cart machine for jingles, and integration with major streaming servers like Shoutcast and Icecast. The software provides detailed listener statistics, royalty reporting, and supports multiple audio formats for high-quality broadcasts.
Pros
- Extensive automation tools including smart playlists and rotation rules
- Reliable 24/7 broadcasting with low-latency streaming
- Comprehensive analytics and royalty reporting for professional use
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- High upfront cost without subscription flexibility
Best For
Established internet radio stations needing robust, professional automation and analytics for full-time operations.
Pricing
One-time license fee of $399 USD, with optional add-ons like remote control and hosting plans starting at $10/month.
NextKast
specializedCloud-based radio playout system for remote scheduling, logging, and multi-station management.
Fully browser-based multi-station control with no software installation required
NextKast is a cloud-based radio automation software tailored for broadcasters, enabling playlist scheduling, live assist capabilities, and comprehensive logging from any web browser. It supports multi-station management, remote control, and integrations with streaming services and VoIP for seamless operations. Designed for small to medium stations, it eliminates the need for on-premise hardware while providing reliable automation tools.
Pros
- Cloud-hosted with full remote access via web browser
- Affordable pricing for multi-station support
- Strong live assist and scheduling tools with logging
Cons
- Limited advanced customization compared to enterprise solutions
- Heavy reliance on stable internet connection
- Occasional reports of minor UI glitches in complex setups
Best For
Small to medium radio stations needing cost-effective, web-based automation without hardware investments.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month per station for basic plan; scales to $199+/month for pro features and multi-station bundles.
StationPlaylist Studio
otherReliable low-cost automation for playlists, carts, live assists, and streaming in small to medium stations.
Precise event-based scheduling system in Creator for complex, automated programming without constant oversight
StationPlaylist Studio is a Windows-based radio automation software tailored for small radio stations, LPFM broadcasters, internet radio operators, and hobbyists. It provides playlist management, automated scheduling through the optional Creator module, live assist capabilities, and support for streaming integrations. The software excels in reliable, low-overhead 24/7 operation without recurring fees, making it a staple for budget-conscious setups.
Pros
- Affordable one-time perpetual licensing
- Reliable 24/7 unattended automation
- Flexible live assist and remote control via Studio360
Cons
- Windows-only, no macOS or Linux support
- Dated interface with a learning curve
- Lacks modern features like cloud syncing or AI playlist generation
Best For
Small community radio stations, LPFM operators, or internet broadcasters seeking cost-effective, reliable automation without subscription costs.
Pricing
One-time licenses: $149 for Studio, $99 for Creator add-on, $249 for Pro Suite; no subscriptions.
Conclusion
After analyzing the top 10 radio automation tools, PlayoutONE emerges as the leading choice, impressing with its comprehensive multi-station scheduling and cross-platform support. Zetta and PlayIt Live follow closely, each offering unique strengths—Zetta with robust multi-site management, and PlayIt Live excelling in live assist and streaming integration—making them excellent alternatives for diverse operational needs. In the end, these tools redefine how radio stations manage playout, with PlayoutONE setting the standard for versatility and reliability.
Take the first step toward a more streamlined broadcast workflow: explore PlayoutONE to experience why it’s the top pick for professionals aiming to elevate their operations and connect with audiences effectively.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison