Streaming Audio/Video FAQ
Listening to German Online - Part 2
Frequently asked questions related to the article, "Hören Sie zu! Listen!," and the Listening Tips how-to by your Guide. The details on streaming audio and video for German, with links to player downloads.
FAQ Part 1 | FAQ Part 2
Continued from FAQ Part 1
Q8. What are media players? Do I have one?
A. A media player is a special type of software that recognizes the stream coming into your computer and displays it (video) on your screen or plays it (audio) through your speakers or headphones. There are three different formats of media players that are most commonly used. Your computer may or may not have one of them already installed. (You'll find download links in Q9 below.) Here are the various types (all with free and pay versions):
Windows Media Player™
Most computers that use the Windows operating system have Windows Media Player installed. If your version is getting old, you may need to download and install a more current one in order to use streaming. (We'll tell you how to do that below.) The Windows Media Player is also available for Apple computers and the Mac OS.
RealOne Player™
Real is another popular streaming format. Many computers/browsers come with the RealOne Player installed. Like the Windows Media player, you may need to download a newer version. Real offers the most compact media file format, even smaller than mp3. The RealOne Player comes in both Mac and Windows versions.
QuickTime™
Newer Apple computers (G5s, G4s, iMacs, PowerBooks, etc.) and many PCs come with the QuickTime player installed. As with all players, if your version is too old, you may need a new one. QuickTime is used for both audio and video streaming, but has additional capabilites, such as QuickTime VR, a panoramic picture display. QuickTime is also available for Windows.
Shockwave™
More and more Web sites are using Macromedia's Shockwave for audio and visual effects, but it's not a true streaming media player. It is popular because it can display short audio and video clips quickly (as in ads), without a long waiting period. The Shockwave browser plug-in is available as a short and free download. QuickTime can also display Shockwave.
Q9. If I need a player, how do I get one?
A. Just download it using the links shown below! Remember, you only need the basic, free version of each player to enjoy streaming content. All of these companies sell upgraded versions with more features, but all supply a basic, free version too. They usually hide the free one, so don't buy the upgraded or "Pro" version unless you want to. Once you've downloaded the player, it will usually install itself. You may need to reset your browser preferences to use a new player.
• Download Windows Media Player
• Download RealOne Player
• Download QuickTime
• Download Shockwave Player
Q10. Is it possible to record streaming audio?
A. Yes. With software such as Total Recorder, it is possible to record most kinds of streaming audio as you listen! See How to Record Streaming Audio - with advice, software, and links from About's Guide for Radio.
Q11. Is there any downside to streaming?
A. There are some potential problems, but we'll tell you how to avoid or minimize them.
(1) Traffic jams. Streaming requires an Internet connection that's free of bottlenecks or "traffic jams." But the Internet isn't a direct pipeline from the source to you. Streamed content passes through many other computers on its way to your computer via your ISP. If any one of them is carrying too much traffic, the streamed content may be interrupted and pause. Streamed content is "buffered" to help avoid this, but sometimes it's unavoidable. Usually the delay only lasts a few seconds, and the audio picks up where it stopped. Video is more sensitive to such interruptions.
(2) A slow computer. Even with a fast computer, if you have too many applications open, it could slow down your media streaming. If you notice things are sluggish, close all unnecessary applications and windows running on your computer. Just keep your Web browser and your media player open. (If you're just listening or watching, you can even close your browser.) In any case, speedy computers (at least 400 Mhz or higher) are best.
(3) Noisy phone lines. If you have a dial-up connection and a phone line that isn't free of noise (humming, crackling), that's not good for streaming (or Web browsing). Disconnect any phones that cause a buzz or hum. Have your phone company check your line to get rid of humming or other line noise. Of course, a cable modem or DSL connection is best for streaming media.
Q12. What if my question isn't answered by this FAQ?
A. First, make sure you've read our Listening Tips. You can always ask in our Forum about any question not covered here. Also see some of the links below.
BACK > FAQ Part 1 | FAQ Part 2
Related Pages
Listening Tips
Some helpful advice on how to listen to German on the Web.
Are You Listening?
Why you should be! Plus links to various sources of German audio online.
German for Beginners
Our free online course with sound for some lessons and exercises.
Listening to Germany
A review of the German audio magazine Schau ins Land, available on tape or CD.
Online TV/Video
German TV and streaming video on the Web.
The Sound of Music... and Lyrics
German music and lyrics make learning fun.
Using Authentic Language Sources on the Web
Techniques and tips (some from readers). How even beginners can use "real" German on the Web to learn the language.
German Newsletters
Subscribe to a free newsletter!
OUR GERMAN FORUMS