Podcasting FAQs
- What is podcasting?
- What do I need?
- What does the podcasting/RSS software do?
- Do I need an iPod?
- Can I download a podcast episode?
- Further podcasting help
What is podcasting?
You choose the time. You choose the place. You choose the show. Save for later or listen now. Podcasting is a way that we can automatically send the best parts of your favourite shows to your computer so that you either listen to them on your PC or load the audio onto your iPod (or any other MP3 player), making it possible for you to enjoy your favourite shows on Classic FM anywhere you like and at a time that is most convenient to you.
To put it simply, a podcast is an MP3 audio file together with some clever technology that will let you subscribe to the show. When you subscribe to a podcast - the new episode will automatically download to your computer whenever it is produced.
And it's all free!
To subscribe to the podcast you will need to download some software that manages all of your podcast subscriptions. When connected to the internet, the software searches for the latest edition of the programme on our website, and will download it to a folder on your computer, ready for you to listen to or to sync when you next plug in your iPod or other portable device. This means that you don't have to manually search for new programmes to download on this website. It happens automatically! Listen to what you want, when you want it.
What do I need?
You will need a computer that has access to the internet. If your PC can play MP3s downloaded from the internet, you can listen to Podcasts. To listen to the shows when you’re out and about you’ll need any brand of MP3 player (e.g. an iPod, Creative Zen, etc). It doesn't matter if you own an Apple computer or a Windows PC.
Finally you'll need to download some free Podcasting software (e.g. iTunes) also known as RSS feed reader which will manage your podcasts for you. To use iTunes to subscribe to podcasts you will need to register with Apple, but you do not have to sign up for any emails and it's completely free. Download iTunes here .
What does the podcasting software/RSS reader do?
When connected to the internet, the software searches for the latest edition of the programme on our website, and will download it to a folder on your computer, ready for when you next plug in your iPod or other portable device. This means that you don't have to manually search & download for new programmes to download on this website.
It happens automatically!
Most podcasting software is available to download for free, including Apple's iTunes Software - (download iTunes here ). There is other free Podcasting Software available from the following websites: Yahoo podcasts, iPodder Lemon, Odeo, iPodder, RSSRadio, BlogMatrix Sparks, Primetime, Podfeeder, Nimiq, Doppler. If you are using any of these for podcasting you simply need to cut and paste the RSS feed supplied into your software.
Do I need an iPod?
You don't actually need a portable MP3 player or an iPod to listen to our Podcasts or downloads unless you want to hear them on the move. Any personal computer will do, as long as your personal computer has a soundcard and an internet connection.
You will need a media player on your computer (many PCs come with Windows Media Player), and you'll also need speakers or headphones. The advantage of transferring the downloads onto a portable player is that you can then listen to them on the move.
Can I download a single podcast episode?
The 'Download' button on our podcasts allows you to save a copy of your chosen programme or podcast episode onto your computer. You can then listen to this whenever you want, or even transfer it onto your portable MP3 player.
How you download the audio will depend on the set up and settings of your computer. Usually, if you want to download the audio you need to click on the link using the button on the right hand side of your mouse. You should then see a list of options including either "Save Target As…" or "Save Link As…". If you select this option (or a similar option containing the word "save") you should be able to save the audio file (MP3) to your computer. Remember to save it to a folder you'll be able to find again later such as 'My Music' or 'My Podcasts'.
If you click on the Download link using the left hand button on your mouse, the audio will usually play. How this happens will depend on the set up and settings of your computer. Usually your default media player will open and the audio will start playing automatically, this may take a few moments to start up.
Still having problems?
If you have not been able to resolve your podcasting issue via the FAQs, you can contact us below. We are not always able to respond in person to all enquiries but your message will be forwarded to the most appropriate person.
Podcasting enquiries
