Ampache

Ampache is a comprehensive web-based audio and video streaming application that transforms your media collection into a personal streaming service. Built with PHP and designed for multi-user environments, it provides powerful media management, streaming capabilities, and social features for sharing your music and video library.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Media Streaming:

  • Full audio streaming with high-quality playback
  • Video streaming and media server capabilities
  • Support for multiple audio and video formats
  • Transcoding support for compatibility
  • Quality selection and bandwidth optimization
  • Cross-platform streaming access

• Advanced Library Management:

  • Automatic media scanning and indexing
  • Comprehensive metadata management
  • Album art and cover image support
  • Tag editing and organization tools
  • Smart library organization and categorization
  • Duplicate detection and management

• Multi-User Platform:

  • Complete multi-user support and management
  • Granular user permissions and access controls
  • Personal playlists and favorites for each user
  • Individual listening history and preferences
  • User-specific recommendations and statistics
  • Social interaction and sharing features

• Powerful Streaming Features:

  • Built-in web player with modern interface
  • Mobile app support and compatibility
  • RESTful API for third-party applications
  • Subsonic API compatibility
  • DLNA/UPnP support for media devices
  • Streaming protocol optimization

• Social and Discovery Features:

  • User ratings and review system
  • Comments and social interaction
  • Media sharing and recommendations
  • Advanced statistics and analytics
  • Discovery features and suggestions
  • Community-driven content curation

• Enterprise Administration:

  • Comprehensive web-based admin interface
  • Advanced user and permission management
  • Catalog and library administration
  • System monitoring and performance tracking
  • Extensible plugin system
  • Backup and maintenance tools

• Self-Hosting Benefits:

  • Complete control over media library
  • Privacy-focused personal streaming
  • No subscription fees or limitations
  • Custom configuration and branding
  • Independence from commercial services
  • Enhanced security and data ownership

Technical Specifications

• Language: PHP
• License: AGPL-3.0
• Deployment: Web server, PHP, database
• Platforms: Cross-platform (web-based)
• Requirements: PHP, MySQL/PostgreSQL, web server
• Database: MySQL, PostgreSQL
• Architecture: LAMP/LEMP stack web application

Use Cases

• Personal Media Server: Individual music and video streaming
• Family Entertainment: Household media sharing and streaming
• Music Enthusiasts: Comprehensive music collection management
• Content Creators: Media library organization and sharing
• Small Organizations: Team media sharing and collaboration
• Privacy-Conscious Users: Self-hosted alternative to commercial streaming

Unique Advantages

• Dual Media Support: Both audio and video streaming capabilities
• Social Features: Community aspects with ratings and sharing
• Subsonic Compatibility: Works with existing Subsonic clients
• Extensible Platform: Plugin system for customization
• Mature Project: Long-established with active development
• Open Source: Transparent, customizable, and community-driven

Based on the Ampache GitHub repository, this tool provides users with a feature-rich, web-based media streaming solution that excels in multi-user environments and social features, making it ideal for families, music enthusiasts, and organizations who want a comprehensive self-hosted alternative to commercial streaming services with advanced library management and social interaction capabilities.