Ferncast, the innovative audio logistics company specializing in 24/7 radio software solutions, is excited to announce the release of aixtream version 3.8. This new version offers a wide range of features designed to enhance audio quality for broadcasters.

Support of MicroMPX for FM-over-IP

aixtream now includes full FM processing via Thimeo’s Stereo Tool solution, which also includes MicroMPX (µMPX) encoding for STL. MicroMPX transports a full FM composite MPX signal, including pilot and RDS, at a bitrate of only 320 kbit/s. MicroMPX offers nearly losslesss FM encoding and perfectly maintains peak control, even when using composite clipping. Users familiar with Stereo Tool will be happy to hear that the Stereo Tool user interface is fully integrated and supported within aixtream. Thus, users have access to the full suite of Stereo Tools options.

Hans van Zutphen, CEO at Thimeo Audio Technology, commented “I am impressed by how quickly the Ferncast team has integrated Stereo Tool with MicroMPX into its radio streaming software. At Thimeo, we are delighted to have another strong partner applying and promoting our technology for broadcast applications.”

Fraunhofer xHE-AAC Improvements

aixtream’s implementation of xHE AAC has been further improved in cooperation with Fraunhofer experts. Ferncast comprehensively implemented all applicable MPEG standards related to the xHE-AAC codec. This affirms aixtream as the premier choice for standards-compliant xHE-AAC encoding and other cutting-edge technologies.

Loudness control for audio on demand

The next-generation loudness control (ngLC) developed by Ferncast offers advanced capabilities for managing audio on demand, ensuring consistent and optimal audio levels like a Tonmeister.

In addition to these major updates, version 3.8 includes numerous improvements, specific feature additions, and general bug fixes.  These include, but are not limited to:

• Support for smallest possible HLS segment lengths (down to 1s).
• WebRTC listen-in now allows multiple client listeners.
• Improved AES67 compatibility with systems from other vendors.
• Applets can now be triggered with an action delay.

Version 3.8. was released today to the customer base!

Ferncast experts will showcase aixtream’s newest developments and outstanding audio quality at IBC 2024, Hall 8, stand 8.F80.

About Ferncast GmbH:

Ferncast develops software and hardware solutions for audio workflows in broadcasting, and offers services and consulting connected to their extensive expertise. The core product is aixtream, a 24/7 software solution for radio streaming, de/muxing, SIP/WebRTC communication, podcasting, STL, loudness normalization, transcoding, event recording and logging, and more, which Ferncast continuously develops and improves. It runs as server appliance, in virtual machine, and in Docker containers for AWS and other cloud services, as well on hardware.

About Thimeo Audio Technology:

Thimeo is recognized as a technological leader with their award-winning audio processing technology. Thimeo products are used by broadcasters worldwide, for FM, AM, DAB, TV and streaming audio. Products include stand-alone audio processors and a variety of software solutions. Thimeo Audio Technology has offices in the Netherlands and in the US.