To get a shareable direct link like the BBC one (e.g., an
.m3u8 or .mp3 URL), you must use a hosting provider that allows
public direct stream access.
On the
Caster.fm Free Plan, it is
not possible to get a shareable direct link. Their free links are IP-restricted, meaning a link that works for you will not work for your friends; listeners are forced to use the
Caster.fm web player.
To get a link exactly like your example for free, use one of these alternatives:
1. Use Zeno.fm (Best for Direct Links)
ZenoMedia is the most popular "totally free" choice for getting permanent, shareable direct links.
- The Link: After setting up, you get a clean URL like http://stream.zeno.fm.
- How to Pipe: Use BUTT or Mixxx and connect to Zeno’s Icecast settings.
- Find Your Link: In your Zeno dashboard, look for "Stream URL." This link will work in VLC, mobile apps, and browser bars.
2. Self-Host with AzuraCast (Advanced Free)
If you want total control, you can host your own radio server for free using a "Free Tier" Cloud VPS (like Oracle Cloud's Always Free ARM instances).
- Software: Install AzuraCast, which is a free, open-source radio management suite.
- The Link: You can generate your own .m3u8 or .mp3 links directly from the dashboard.
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3. Format Your Own M3U8 File
If you already have a direct .mp3 stream URL (from a provider like
Listen2MyRadio or
Primcast), you can manually create an .m3u8 file:
- Open Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac).
- Paste the following code, replacing the URL with your stream:
#EXTM3U #EXT-X-VERSION:3 #EXT-X-TARGETDURATION:10 #EXTINF:-1,Your Station Name http://your-stream-url-here.mp3
- Save the file as playlist.m3u8.
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Summary of Differences
| Feature |
Caster.fm (Free) |
Zeno.fm (Free) |
Self-Hosted (Free VPS) |
| Direct Shareable Link |
No (IP Restricted) |
Yes |
Yes |
| 24/7 Auto-DJ |
No (Must stay PC on) |
Yes (Cloud-based) |
Yes |
| Ease of Use |
Easy |
Easy |
Hard (Technical) |
Would you like the step-by-step for setting up Zeno.fm so you can get that shareable link immediately?
