Ampache is a free, open-source web application, active since 2001, that lets you access and stream your own music and video collection from anywhere. It is licensed under AGPLv3 and self-hosted, either on your own server or via an official Docker image.
Key Features
Ampache provides catalog management for local and remote music/video libraries, playlist creation, and Localplay device control, all accessible through a built-in HTML5 web player. Its Subsonic-API compatibility layer lets it work with third-party mobile clients like DSub and Symfonium on Android, and Substreamer on iOS, and it also supports UPnP/DLNA and DAAP (iTunes-compatible) backends.
Platforms
Ampache runs as a self-hosted web server, deployable via Docker on linux/amd64, linux/arm/v7, and linux/arm64. Mobile and desktop access is provided through Subsonic-API-compatible clients rather than a single official app.
Key Features
Self-Hosted Media Server — Run Ampache on your own server or via Docker to control your music/video library.
Web-Based Streaming — Built-in HTML5 web player for streaming from any browser.
Subsonic API Compatibility — Works with third-party clients like DSub, Symfonium, Power Ampache 2, and Substreamer.
Catalog Management — Organize local and remote music/video catalogs with metadata and playlists.
Localplay Control — Direct playback control on connected devices/players.
UPnP/DLNA & DAAP Support — Stream to UPnP/DLNA devices or use with iTunes/DAAP-compatible clients.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Completely free and open source, with no subscription fees.
Full control over your own music and video data via self-hosting.
Broad client compatibility through the Subsonic API.
Cons
Requires self-hosting and basic server/Docker knowledge; there's no managed hosting from the project itself.
Interface and setup are less polished than commercial consumer streaming apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ampache free?
Yes, Ampache is free and open source under the AGPLv3 license.
Do I need technical skills to run Ampache?
Yes, Ampache is self-hosted software you install on your own server or via Docker; it isn't a managed cloud service.
Can I use Ampache on my phone?
Yes, through Subsonic-API-compatible apps like DSub and Symfonium on Android, or Substreamer on iOS.
How long has Ampache been around?
Ampache has been in active development since 2001.