Subsonic is a multi-platform open source music server (audio only) through which you can share and enjoy music collection through a Web interface. It can be used to listen to music either on the same computer or in the local network or remotely by connecting the music server over the Web.


Install and configure: It is a simple installation (at least for Windows) application and gets running within a minute without you having to tinker any thing much. Install it like any other application and then go to http://localhost in your web browser. You will then have to go to Setting -> Music Folders and add your folders. If you have an entire disk dedicated to music, just type in the address of that disk, such as E:/. Also, add some username of your choice.

If you have a network in your home, you can save some disk space by avoiding the need of creating multiple music collections. Just dedicate one computer as music server, install Subsonic on it and enjoy music by typing the IP address of your music server in the browser of any computer in the local network.

In case you want to access Subsonic from outside, you will need an Internet connection that allows outside computers to connect to your music server. It also requires you to open up the port being used by the music server. To open the port used by Subsonic, which is normally port number 80, go to Control Panel -> Firewall, and add exceptions for both TCP and UDP connection through the port. When you type the IP address of your music server, the Subsonic interface will open up. (To know your IP address, you can visit IP Chicken.)


Subsonic allows multiple users to log on and enjoy music simultaneously. Is a really nice option for setting up a music server at your home or office network or in cyber cafes. Though it lacks a good music player, its other features make it worth installing.


In case you already have a server installed on your computer, Subsonic will not be able to load itself on http://localhost. It will have to be configure to use any other free port such as 8080 and then visit http://localhost:port-number, http://localhost:8080 if port set to 8080, to access Subsonic Web interface.

Though demo of Subsonic is availbale, I would suggest you give it a try by installing locally. It is quick to install and uninstall.

Subsonic [Lifehacker]