Importing From Other Automation Systems
Section 27: Importing From Other Automation Systems
NextKast provides robust tools to import automation databases from various external systems, allowing for a seamless transition and integration of your existing audio assets and metadata into NextKast. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to use the Import External Radio Automation Database feature.
Accessing the Import Function
- Open Settings: Begin by navigating to the Settings menu in NextKast.
- Select Import External Radio Automation Database: Click on the “Import External Radio Automation Database” button. This will open a new window that offers several import options.
Supported Automation Systems
NextKast supports importing databases from a wide range of popular automation systems, including:
- Radio DJ
- Station Playlist
- PlayoutONE
- MediaTouch
- Arrakis
- Apex
- WideOrbit
- RCS Zetta
- ENCO DAD
- AudioVAULT (AVFlex)
- DJB Radio
- Powergold
- Jazzler
- Simian
- Natural Music
- Rivendell
- iMediaTouch
- Selector
- RCS NexGen
For each of these systems, you will either enter the database information or specify the import folder location and the import file. NextKast will then pull in all the tracks and metadata, automatically creating the appropriate categories.
CSV Library Metadata Import
NextKast also allows for more customizable imports through CSV files. The CSV Library Metadata Import option enables you to match separate metadata information to your source files. The key requirement here is that your source file matches the source specified in the CSV import file.
Supported Metadata Fields:
- Title
- Artist
- Intro
- Length
- Year
- Category
- Tempo
- Gender
- Features
- Genre
By pointing NextKast to the CSV import file and the folder containing the audio assets, the software will automatically update the metadata for each track based on the information provided in the CSV file.
CSV Audio Asset Full Import
For a more comprehensive import process, NextKast supports CSV Audio Asset Full Import. This feature allows you to import a comma-delimited asset file from nearly any automation system.
Required CSV Headers:
- Source
- Title
- Artist
- Intro
- Length
- Year
- Category
- Tempo
- Gender
- Feature
- Genre
Simply specify the CSV import file and the folder where all the audio assets are stored. NextKast will then automatically import all the audio assets and convert the metadata into the NextKast format. This is a highly efficient method for importing extensive libraries of audio assets and their associated metadata.
Finalizing the Import
Once the import process is complete, NextKast will have all your audio assets and metadata organized and ready to use in the system. You can then proceed to configure playlists, rotations, and any other necessary settings to get your station up and running with NextKast.
This section outlines the straightforward process of importing external databases, allowing you to leverage your existing audio assets with minimal manual input. NextKast’s flexibility in handling various file formats and metadata ensures a smooth transition from your previous automation system.