Everything you need to know about live streaming equipment

Live streaming is a technology that enables one to watch, create and share videos in real-time. With an internet-connected device, one can live stream without previously-stored, recorded, or downloaded data. TV broadcasts, video games, social media can all be availed for live streaming. Video conferencing apps like Skype, Facetime, and Google apps operate on live streaming technology. Live stream has become popular automation on social media for influencers to interact with their audience. It has become an excellent tool for young adults to create an identity and develop communication skills. It brings together the global audience on a single platform at a particular time. The steps that follow in Live streaming are segmentation, compression, encoding, contact delivery network, CDN caching decoding, and video playback.

Video Capture- Live streaming begins with the capture of visual information on the camera.
Segmentation- Streaming video is divided into smaller segments for a shorter length.
Compression and Encoding- Data compression involves removing redundant visual information. Encoding is the process of converting data into a new format.
CDN is a distributed network of servers that cache and serve the content of the origin server to maintain high quality.
Decoding- The user’s device receives, decodes, and decompresses, and interprets the data and the video plays.

Live Streaming Video Equipment

For professional Live streaming, a business needs live streaming video equipment. Below is the guide to the best live streaming video equipment that would make broadcasting a wholesome experience.

1. Video Cameras

The first indispensable requirement of live streaming is a video camera

Webcams- For individual influencers and small brands, standard USB webcams are the most cost-effective cameras. They directly connect to computers, have an inbuilt microphone, and are ideal for live chats or gaming. Modern webcams provide about 720 p video resolution. The USB repeater extension cable used to position the webcam has an inbuilt component that boosts the signal. The smartphone and webcams fall under entry-level cameras.

Prosumer Video Camera- DSLR cameras offer excellent video quality, ultra-high image resolution. Mirror-less cameras also bestow superior features.

Professional Cameras- Camcorders are the best option for live streaming if the budget is flexible. They propose 4k resolution, produce crystal–clear outputs, and ensure smooth video characteristics. Pro connectors like XLR and SDI also furnish with superb image quality even in low lighting.

Action Camera- These cameras are small yet powerful to shoot action- extensive videos.

Choose the best one as your live streaming video equipment

2. Audio Equipment

Audio quality is as crucial as video quality in media streaming services. Thus, investment in sound should be a necessary priority.

If the stream includes stationery set-up, then condenser microphones with tabletop are the most suitable option. It is advantageous as it does not pick up a lot of background noises. USB microphones or 3.5mm microphones are affordable and do not require additional devices. They are categorized in the silver tier. Lapel microphones are apt for dynamic situations. They have wireless and wired choices to shoot while moving around.

XLR microphones belong to the gold category and are durable with the highest sound quality. However, these microphones require audio mixers.

3. Audio and Video Mixers

Mixing live streaming video equipment allows capturing multiple video and audio sources and switching between them during the live broadcast.

The following things should be considered for purchasing the right video mixing piece
Physical size
Input and Outputs
Automation and connectivity
User Interface

An audio source can capture multiple audio sources. You should look for these aspects.
The no of input and output channels
Auxiliary and monitor buses and outputs
Digital inputs
And control via network app

4. Encoders

Media streaming services require encoders too. Video encoding refers to compressing the video files, so they are not saved as individual images but as one fluid video. A video must be encoded for the following reasons-
Reduce file size
Reduce buffering for streaming video
Change audio format or quality
Make a video compatible with certain device software or service
Meet a certain target bit rate
Change resolution or aspect ratio

5. Accessories

Media streaming services demand additional live streaming video equipment. Such equipment incorporates a tripod for the camera, an arm for the microphone, and cables for connections. Light Stand and LED rings are employed to improve the video quality. A green screen comes in handy to change the background for dynamic videos.

Thus, these equipment are essential for media streaming services. This technology sanctions you to broadcast any activity with anyone in the world at any moment.