We are now experiencing hard times, the music industry is suffering a lot of damage and, due to the pandemic, all concerts have been cancelled. Thanks to the internet there are some solutions we can adapt to survive those times, obviously it is not something that can 100% satisfy this loss, yet it is something that can help us.
One of these is live-streaming performances. Bands can use this moment to promote themselves better on the web and, even if it is not possible to play live, organizing a good live-streaming could be an important step in the development of the band itself.
This can only work if it is done well, taking all precautions and using the right equipment.
But what exactly is live-streaming? Well, it is a method of broadcasting audio and video over the internet. This allows viewers to tune in from different devices (phone, computer, TV). This medium allows you to reach more fans than ever, and is also immediate, there is no need to record/edit/print/distribute materials.
What do you need?
Live-streaming can be as simple as hooking up a single camera to your computer, or it can be an elaborate process requiring a considerable amount of specialty equipment. When it comes to the video, an essential setup consist of two or three cameras, a video mixer, a reliable computer, and a live-streaming service that fits your needs.
But remember, nothing makes good video more intolerable than poor audio. The right microphones positioned correctly can make all the difference in the world. There are two basic directions you can go with audio: taking an auxiliary feed from the mixing board or using an all-in-one video mixer.
Auxiliary Send
If you only stream the mix from the board, then your performance may not sound its best, why you only mike the quieter sources, such as vocals and keys through the PA, leaving drums and guitars out of the mix.
You need to set up a couple of room mics, but a far better solution is to set up more instrument mics and only send them to a dedicated auxiliary output that generates a mix tailored for your video stream.
All-in-one video mixer (the best solution)
They combine video cameras, video sources, and multichannel audio all into a single unit.
Video mixers such as the Roland models (https://www.sweetwater.com/c1005–Roland–Video_Mixers) also typically include USB connections specifically intended for streaming and recording.
–What to look for in a video mixer:
- Number and type of video camera inputs
- USB and additional video inputs for slide shows (lyrics) and other sources
- USB for recording and streaming
- Audio I/O for mixing and sound reinforcement
- Additional video processing such as transitions and effects
Streaming Platforms
There are plenty of great options out there, and some of the more popular names in live-streaming include DaCast, Ustream, Livestream, and Wowza – all considered standards.
While there are free services, such as YouTube Live or Facebook, they won’t offer you as much control of your content as a commercial service. These services cost anywhere from $20 to $100 per month for entry-level service, with the average being around $50 per month.
These platforms actually vary quite a bit, some specializing in security while others offer more or less online storage.
Sources:
Sweetwater – Live Stream a Performance
