How to Listen
Your connection to Northern Public Radio.
Broadcast Radio
WNIJ and WNIU broadcast signals reach much of Northern Illinois, originating from our tower in Lynnville Township.
Primary Signals:
DeKalb/Sycamore, Rockford, and surrounding metro areas.
Repeaters:
Clear signals available in Freeport, Sterling, and La Salle.
Web Streaming
Listen Live: Just click the "Play" button on this website to hear our live stream, or click the play button on any news story.
External Players: Prefer iTunes or VLC? Use these direct MP3 links:
- WNIJ (News & Jazz) 89.5 FM
- WNIU (Classical) 90.5 FM
- NIRIS (News & Info) HD3
Mobile Apps
The WNIJ & WNIU apps are available free of charge. Funded by the Shade Family Foundation.
- Live Streaming: Listen wherever you go.
- On Demand: Catch up on favorite programs.
- Alarm Clock: Wake up to WNIJ or WNIU.
Smart Speakers
You can live stream WNIJ or WNIU instantly with your Alexa, Google Home, or other smart device.
Just use the invocation command:
Podcasts
You can find all of our podcast episodes on the navigation menu of this website under "Podcasts" or on the mobile app.
You may also subscribe to our podcasts like Perspectives or Teachers' Lounge on an app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Why Subscribe? Subscribing is free, and it ensures you are automatically notified every time a new episode is released so you never miss a story.
WNIJ/WNIU Stream Support
If you are having trouble listening, please review the troubleshooting steps below.
Why does the stream stop or stutter?
Any momentary interruptions in your stream are likely due to Internet congestion. Current streaming technology "buffers" audio to prevent this, but if your connection drops (even for a second), you may hear a skip. Try refreshing the page or switching to Wi-Fi if you are on cellular data.
Hardware & Software Requirements
Modern Devices: Our streams are compatible with virtually all modern computers (Windows, Mac, Chromebook), smartphones, and tablets.
Software: For the best experience, we recommend using a current web browser like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge. You do not need to install special plugins.
Internet Connection: A stable broadband connection or 4G/5G cellular data is recommended for uninterrupted high-quality audio.
I can't hear anything. What do I do?
1. Check Volume: Ensure your device volume is up and speakers are connected.
2. Browser Check: Try a different browser (e.g., if using Chrome, try Edge).
3. Ad Blockers: If you use an ad-blocker or strict privacy extension, pause it for this site. Some blockers inadvertently block audio stream scripts.
Stream URLs (For Manual Setup)
These links are intended for listeners who wish to manually program an internet radio or use a standalone player like VLC.
Direct MP3 Links
- WNIJ: https://northernpr.streamguys1.com/WNIJ
- WNIU: https://northernpr.streamguys1.com/WNIU
- NIRIS: https://northernpr.streamguys1.com/NIRIS
Download MP3 Links
Still unable to listen?
Please contact our Tech Support Joe Kuntz:
joe.kuntz@niu.edu
815-753-1917
(Mon-Fri, 8:30am-4:30pm)