This isn't really a genius how-to, but it's something I overlooked for almost six months. I only realized I could do this because I did some house cleaning in my iTunes Smart Playlists.

As you know, you can grab Internet streams off the web through iTunes. You just need the correct URL and you're off and running. Many over-the-air radio stations have Internet feeds of their broadcasts. Naturally, there are tons of Internet-only broadcasts you can listen to as well. One of my favorites is KCRW's Worldnews and their Simulcast. Note that as far as I can tell it's not possible to access iTunes' built-in radio station list. You've got to create your own.

So, with those URLs in your iTunes Library, you can listen to the feed as long as your Mac is connected to the Internet. Although the tag will be syncronized with your iPod, you won't, of course, be able to listen to the stream. Not yet at least, if the Sirius rumors have any pickles in the jar.

Now, this is where your Tivo comes in. With Tivo's Desktop installed, Tivo users can listen to their music and view their photo libraries through their TV. If the TV is connected to a 108" monster plasma and a home theater sound system all the better.

This is where the streams come in. I created a playlist with my streams inside. Makes it really east to grab them from TiVo. Just create your playlist, hop on your TV and browse your music Library. Then select the Internet stream you want to listen to and a couple of seconds later you'll be streaming the feed through your Mac to your TiVo through your TV.

If you don't have a feed handy, use KCRW's:

http://64.236.34.196:80/stream/8018

To add the stream, simply open iTunes > +U > paste your URL.




BTW, if you're having trouble with Tivo's support files on how to configure your Tivo to see your Mac's music and photos, make sure you open your Tivo port in the System Preferences > Sharing > Firewall tab. Could save you some serious time. And, TiVo, why not update your support files to include this tip when you have a free moment.

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Don't forget How to Buy a Mac.

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