Tools & Platforms
Kenku FM
English
Audio & Music
Free
Kenku FM is a specialized high fidelity audio sharing application designed specifically for tabletop gaming over Discord. Created by the developers of Owlbear Rodeo, it was released in 2022 to provide a reliable, high quality alternative to traditional Discord music bots. It functions as a standalone virtual browser and media player that acts as a bridge, streaming audio directly from a user's computer into a Discord voice channel with minimal latency and superior sound quality.
Description
Kenku FM solves the common problem of sharing immersive music and sound effects during online TTRPG sessions. Instead of relying on buggy cloud bots that often face copyright shutdowns, Kenku FM runs locally on the Game Master's computer. It allows the GM to log in as a "Bot" on their own Discord server, giving them total control over the audio stream. It is a lightweight, open source tool that treats audio as a vital part of the storytelling toolkit rather than an afterthought.
System Overview & Key Features
Integrated Web Browser
Kenku FM features a built in browser designed specifically for audio. You can open tabs for YouTube, Spotify, Tabletop Audio, or Syrinscape and stream the audio directly into your Discord call without needing to share your screen or lose audio quality.
Local File Playback
The app acts as a robust media player for your personal sound library. You can create playlists from your own MP3 and WAV files, allowing for instant playback of specific combat themes or environmental ambiance stored on your hard drive.
Soundboard Functionality
Users can set up a custom soundboard within the interface. This allows a Game Master to trigger one shot sound effects like sword clashing, explosions, or monster growls at the perfect narrative moment with a single click.
Stream Deck Integration
For power users, Kenku FM offers a dedicated plugin for the Elgato Stream Deck. This allows the GM to control volume, skip tracks, and trigger soundboard effects using physical buttons, keeping their hands free to manage the game and maps.
High Quality Audio Engine
By using a dedicated bot connection rather than standard screen sharing, Kenku FM maintains high bitrate stereo audio. This ensures that orchestral scores and subtle environmental textures sound exactly as intended for every player in the voice channel.
Open Source and Privacy
The software is open source and runs locally, meaning it does not track your data or rely on external servers that can be shut down. You own the software and have total control over the bot account you create to facilitate the stream.
Additional links
kenku.fm - Official Kenku FM website
github.com/owlbear-rodeo - Official Open Source Repository