Introduction
When the term live video streaming tool is referenced, it means hardware or software designed to help you broadcast or stream live to a video platform. The platforms could be social media sites like Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube, to mention but a few. If you have the best live streaming tool at your disposal, making live videos will not only be easier, but you will also end up looking more professional with better quality videos. In this article, we will be talking about the must-have tools for any budding brands. These even include Instagram feed WordPress plugin. Read on to learn more.
1. Computers/Mobile Phones
In addition to WordPress Instagram gallery, you will also need hardware to stream from. A device from which to stream is mandatory, and this can be a laptop, a desktop computer, a gaming console, or just your smartphone. The device you use will come down to the level of comfort and quality you want.
While most people prefer desktops when it comes to social media streaming, a laptop is portable and, therefore, more flexible. It enables you to stream from any location you choose and also guarantees better quality than your smartphone.
Although a high-end rig isn’t necessary for you to broadcast your videos, you should look for something that has a RAM of at least 8GB and contains several USB ports. Also, your hardware should have an SSD just in case you need to level up your stream sessions.
2. Audio Live Streaming Gear
The choice of good audio streaming equipment is of utmost importance. If you don’t get it right, it might be the difference between creating engaging content that your audience loves and coming up with a poor video that your users abandon midstream.
Although the built-in mics on basic smartphones and cameras provide decent audio quality, it’s easy to improve with a simple 3.5 mm lavalier mic.
Also, professional live video cameras feature built-in microphones that provide good quality audio output.
If your stream involves only a few movements, a condenser mic complete with a tabletop stand will do a pretty good job. It works where the setup is rather stationary and doesn’t have a lot of background noise.
However, the best audio quality usually features XLR microphones. These have precise, warm sounds that make it great for those that want advanced live stream videos.
Others even include brilliant hardware controls such as knobs and fades that help you to have a natural-sounding voice, just the way you want it. Coupled with the right Instagram feed WordPress plugin, you can be guaranteed of producing top-notch streaming content.
3. Mixing Live Video Stream Equipment
An audio mixer is yet another vital tool you should include in your live streaming gear. Other than enabling you to use multiple audio sources and microphones, having this gear also helps you adjust the compression, EQ, and sound levels.
Although it is not mandatory to mix your stream audio setup, those that are in multi-camera streaming cannot afford to ignore it. So where do you begin? Given the plethora of options available, it’s very easy to get confused.
To start, you should figure out the number of outputs you require making frequent audio loops. The other thing you need to consider is the camera angles while you are at it. Whether you require a mixer offering various voices and customizations, you can be sure to find it all.
4. Encoders
The right encoder is critical since it can make a whole difference to the quality of live streaming you get.
Encoders convert video files from one format to a different one. For instance, it can convert raw video files straight from your camera to a digital file. The work of encoders is to compress video files while ensuring that the quality remains intact.
Therefore, should you ever get frustrated by buffering when streaming a video, you need to know that the problem can be solved by encoding it.
Encoders can also change the resolution and even make your video content compatible with your smartphone, computer, or tablet.
5. Live Streaming Gear
Whether you want to upgrade an existing live streaming setup or want to build one from scratch, you will surely need some accessories for improving the quality of your stream.
Your gear includes a selfie stick, tripod stand, a reliable webcam, green screen, smartphone tripod mount, and batteries, these accessories help to ensure you have top-notch streaming quality.
6. Live Streaming Platform
Once you have known the right equipment that you need for streaming live, the next important thing is to choose the best streaming platform. However, before doing that, you should ensure that the platform you choose is in line with your streaming objectives. It also needs to take you to the appropriate audience as well as one that’s within your budget.
Some popular live-streaming platforms include Instagram Live, LinkedIn Live, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live.
There are also third-party streaming sites like Switchboard Live, Periscope, OBS Studio, Stream Yard, and Zoom.
7. Live Video Hosting Tools
According to research, viewers will spend 10-20 times longer watching a live video compared to on-demand content. It shows why streaming live is so important for those that want to connect with their audience.
Although there are live video hosting services that you can use to create content for free for instance YouTube, you will mostly need professional streaming hosting services if you are looking to get white-label service.
Also, these tools let you enjoy greater monetization options as well as security features like password protection, embed permission restrictions, and secure upload, to mention but a few.
Some of the main video hosting sites to consider include JW Player, Brightcove, Livestream (Vimeo), and Decast.
8. Restreaming Tools
A restreaming tool broadcasts your stream simultaneously to all the platforms you want. Also, it gives you vital information about your audience stats. Therefore, you will easily get answers to things like your audience type as well as where they tend to be most active.
Conclusion
Live Streaming has never been more important, especially now that the world continues to find ways of connecting and functioning with minimal human contact. The live streaming sector grew to almost double levels between March and April 2020, and it’s only likely to grow. Thus, you not only need to know how to stream but also the right tools and gear.
