Rivendell
Rivendell: A focused Linux system for automated radio audio playout, scheduling, and podcast management. Ranked #134 of 136 in Live Streaming Software by our editors (3.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for radio stations needing automated audio playout.
At a glance
- Editor score3.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forRadio stations needing automated audio playout
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Automates scheduling, recording, and audio playout for radio workflows
- Supports voice tracking, customizable program logs, and live-assist operation
- Connects with AudioScience, JACK, MySQL, and scheduling systems
Where it doesn't
- Runs on GNU/Linux rather than a broader set of platforms
- Focuses on audio radio automation, not end-to-end live video streaming
- Does not provide documented multistreaming or browser-based production
Our verdict on Rivendell
Rivendell is an open-source radio broadcast automation system for broadcasters that need structured audio acquisition, library management, scheduling, and on-air playout. It runs on GNU/Linux and can be installed as a standalone, server, or client system on dedicated hardware. Its scope suits stations building an automated audio operation, with additional tools for voice tracking, log editing, live assist, recording, and podcast episode management.
The workflow depth is centered on radio operations rather than general live production. Rivendell supports automated audio playout, event scheduling, automatic recording, customizable program logs, and SoundPanel arrays for live-assist operation. It also handles PCM16, PCM24, and MPEG Layer 2 audio, while podcast episode posting and management extend the system beyond the live broadcast itself. These features make it a strong fit for stations that need repeatable scheduling and a managed audio library, especially when automation is more important than visual production.
Its ecosystem includes AudioScience audio adapters, JACK Audio Connection Kit, MySQL, and third-party traffic and music scheduling systems. The open-source model and GNU General Public License version 2 make Rivendell suitable for organizations that want free software and the ability to operate a radio-focused system on Linux hardware. Choose it for automated audio broadcasting, live assist, and related podcast workflows. Choose an alternative when the central requirement is live video streaming, multistreaming, or browser-based production.
Your product? Our editors can test Rivendell in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
Rivendell pricing
Rivendell fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Multistreaming | Not verified |
| Pre-recorded streams | Not verified |
| 24/7 looping | Not verified |
| Browser-based studio | Not verified |
| Custom RTMP destinations | Not verified |
| Cloud recording | Not verified |
| Unified chat | Not verified |
| Deployment | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 4 integrations: AudioScience audio adapters, JACK Audio Connection Kit, MySQL, third-party traffic and music scheduling systems |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | rivendellaudio.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Rivendell integrations
Rivendell lists 4 integrations on its own site.
- AudioScience audio adapters
- JACK Audio Connection Kit
- MySQL
- third-party traffic and music scheduling systems
Alternatives to Rivendell
- OBS StudioA highly customizable free desktop production tool for creators, educators, and broadcasters.9.4
- Streamlabs DesktopA capable desktop streamer with strong alerts, automation, and creator tools.9.2
- vMixA Windows production suite for multicamera switching, replay, graphics, guests, and multistreaming.9.1
See all Rivendell alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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