Rockbot vs Custom Channels: Which Provider Is Right for You?
Rockbot Overview
Rockbot is a streaming media platform for businesses offering licensed background music, digital signage, TV programming, audio messaging, and retail media advertising through one unified platform. Founded in 2009 and backed by Google, Rockbot serves nearly 50,000 businesses across North America.
Music Library: 18M+ songs HQ: San Francisco, CA Clients: Planet Fitness, Walmart, Shake Shack, Ashley FurnitureCustom 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 | Rockbot | Custom Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Audio Messaging | ✓ | ✗ |
| Background Music | ✓ | ✓ |
| Digital Signage | ✓ | ✗ |
| Retail Media | ✓ | ✗ |
| TV Programming | ✓ | ✗ |
| Music Catalog | 18M+ songs | None |
| Pricing Model | Per-Location | Per-Location |
| Target Market | Enterprise | Mid-Market |
When to Choose Rockbot
Go with Rockbot if you prioritize single-platform solution for music, tv, signage, and advertising. backed by google. interactive rockbot request feature lets guests request songs.. Rockbot 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 Rockbot 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 Rockbot or Custom Channels better for restaurants?
It depends on your needs. Rockbot offers single-platform solution for music, tv, signage, and advertising. backed by google. interactive rockbot request feature lets guests request songs., 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 Rockbot and Custom Channels?
Rockbot uses per-location pricing while Custom Channels uses per-location pricing. Contact both for quotes based on your location count.
Do both Rockbot 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 Rockbot to Custom Channels?
Yes. Check your current contract for early termination terms, then most providers can assist with migration to their platform.
Related Research
Stingray for Grocery Stores: Is It the Right Choice?
Stingray offers in-store media solutions that can be tailored for grocery stores...
Soundsuit for Convenience Stores: Is It the Right Choice?
Soundsuit offers in-store media solutions that can be tailored for convenience s...
Jukeboxy for Retail Stores: Is It the Right Choice?
Jukeboxy offers in-store media solutions that can be tailored for retail stores....
Stingray for Restaurants: Is It the Right Choice?
Stingray offers in-store media solutions that can be tailored for restaurants. K...
Stingray for Gyms & Fitness Centers: Is It the Right Choice?
Stingray offers in-store media solutions that can be tailored for gyms & fitness...
Looking for the right in-store media provider?