This is when and how to use the PRX Exchange
How does PRX's distribution work?
Before we hop into the nitty-gritty of when and why to use the PRX Exchange, it's essential to understand how we categorize distribution relationships with PRX. There are two types of distribution relationships. These relationships determine where you go to find information for specific programs.
Representative Relationship
The first kind of distribution relationship is one where PRX works on behalf of the program to place it on airwaves across the country. This type of distribution is facilitated by one of PRX's station services representatives.
Independent Relationship
This kind of relationship is a technical one, in which independent producers and/or station producers self-distribute their programs using PRX's Exchange.
The Exchange vs. The Info Site
The PRX Exchange contains thousands of audio pieces and programs for you to use. Many are self-distributed using our technology from producers all over the world, while some are represented by PRX.
The Station Services info site is the home to all of the resources and information for programs PRX represents. Currently, PRX represents 24 broadcast programs, including "Snap Judgment," "Latino USA," "Reveal," and "The Moth." Here you can find broadcast clocks, logos, program descriptions, and more.
Please note: not all of the programs PRX represents are distributed via the PRX Exchange.
Use the PRX Exchange...
To download content
Content in the PRX Exchange is organized into two categories based on the way stations can access the audio: through the marketplace or the automated delivery service.
The marketplace is the original distribution method on the Exchange. Any producer can upload their audio as a piece and assign a price to it in the form of a point value. Points are the currency in the marketplace, and to license a piece with a point value, a station must have purchased a point package (also known as a PRX Membership). To buy a point package, you can reach out to memberships@prx.org.
The automated delivery service (formerly known as SubAuto) was introduced to the Exchange later as an alternate delivery method for ongoing series. Per request from a producer, PRX will enable their series with automated delivery, meaning each new episode will be delivered to subscribed stations via FTP. To use the service, a series must be produced weekly, daily, or hourly. Please note: since producers opt-in and pay for this service, it is not an option for all ongoing series.
Stations do not pay for automated series using points. Instead, they can pay for automated delivery series through annual carriage fees, at the producer's discretion. This is typically coordinated outside PRX. For this reason, stations do not need a paid PRX membership to subscribe to an automated series.
To discover new content & specials
Screenshot take from The Exchange
Whenever you have planned changes to your programming or are in a last-minute pickle, the PRX Exchange should be your first browsing destination!
The most recent playlists for specific events and holidays, like the election or Labor Day, can be found on the Exchange home page under Upcoming.
Use the Station Services Info Site...
To find your station services representative
PRX has three incredible station services representatives to answer your questions and help you acquire the right programming for your station. Find your region's representative and their contact information here.
To find program details
Each program PRX represents has a dedicated page on the info site with the carriage information you need to broadcast the program on your station. You'll find descriptions of the program, host(s), and producer(s), as well as other important carriage information:
Publish frequency
Program length
Program feed schedule
Downloadable broadcast clock
Downloadable program logo
Downloadable host photo
Broadcast rights
Please bookmark this page for the shortlist of excellent programs PRX distributes: https://www.prx.org/stations#programs.