Stingray vs Custom Channels: Which Provider Is Right for You?
Stingray Overview
Stingray is a Canadian public company (TSX: RAY.A/RAY.B) providing commercial music, digital signage, in-store audio advertising, and AI-driven consumer insights. Stingray Advertising is North America's largest retail audio advertising network, reaching 928M+ shopping visits monthly across 25,100+ locations.
HQ: Montreal, QC, CanadaCustom Channels Overview
Custom Channels is a background music provider specializing in branded playlists and multi-location music management. Every playlist is human-curated by professional music designers, with songs screened for content and tagged with 170+ characteristics.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Stingray | Custom Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Background Music | ✓ | ✓ |
| Consumer Insights | ✓ | ✗ |
| Digital Signage | ✓ | ✗ |
| In-Store Advertising | ✓ | ✗ |
| Retail Media Network | ✓ | ✗ |
| Music Catalog | None | None |
| Pricing Model | Custom | Per-Location |
| Target Market | Enterprise | Mid-Market |
When to Choose Stingray
Go with Stingray if you prioritize north america's largest retail audio advertising network with 25,100+ locations and 928m+ monthly shopping visits. publicly traded with ~1,000 employees globally.. Stingray is best for multi-location enterprises needing centralized control and white-glove support.
When to Choose Custom Channels
Go with Custom Channels if you value human-curated playlists with 170+ metadata tags per song. no ai curation — every playlist built by professional music designers..
Bottom Line
Both Stingray and Custom Channels are legitimate in-store media providers, but for different buyers. Request demos from both to see which interface and service model best fits your operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stingray or Custom Channels better for restaurants?
It depends on your needs. Stingray offers north america's largest retail audio advertising network with 25,100+ locations and 928m+ monthly shopping visits. publicly traded with ~1,000 employees globally., while Custom Channels provides human-curated playlists with 170+ metadata tags per song. no ai curation — every playlist built by professional music designers.. Restaurants with simple needs may prefer the more affordable option; multi-location chains should evaluate enterprise features.
What is the price difference between Stingray and Custom Channels?
Stingray uses custom pricing while Custom Channels uses per-location pricing. Contact both for quotes based on your location count.
Do both Stingray and Custom Channels include music licensing?
Yes. Both include the commercial performance rights licenses (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC) needed to legally play music in your business.
Can I switch from Stingray to Custom Channels?
Yes. Check your current contract for early termination terms, then most providers can assist with migration to their platform.
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