Technology advancements
You can stream to millions from your phone, but the right tech still separates amateur from pro. This tag gathers practical guides on live streaming, lighting, stage control, antennas and more — quick how-tos you can use tonight.
If you're streaming on YouTube and want to play other videos during a live show, use OBS or similar encoder software. Add a media source, cue the file, and control playback with hotkeys. Test audio levels so the played video doesn't drown your mic. Record a dry run to check timing and transitions before you go live.
Understanding how live streaming works helps you troubleshoot fast. Video is encoded, sent to a server, then distributed to viewers. Poor upload speed, wrong codec, or high CPU use will cause lag and dropped frames. Aim for steady upload bandwidth, use hardware encoding when available, and keep backups like a second camera or stream key ready.
Practical stage lighting tips
Setting DMX addresses is simple once you know the map: each fixture needs a unique start channel in the DMX universe. Check the fixture's channel count and set the address so channels don't overlap. Use a notebook or app to record each fixture's start channel and function—it's the easiest way to avoid surprises during a show.
Good on-camera lighting can be cheap and effective. Use a soft key light, a fill source, and a background light. Diffusers and LED panels with adjustable color temperature give a flattering look. If you work with LEDs, remember heat sinks and driver quality affect lifespan and color stability—buy the best you can within your budget.
Build, buy, or rent?
For indie filmmakers, deciding between buying and renting equipment depends on how often you use gear. Rent expensive cameras and specialized lenses for single projects. Buy basics like lights, microphones, and durable LEDs if you'll use them regularly. Rental houses are also great for testing gear before you commit to a purchase.
Building a simple antenna for a drone can boost range and reduce interference. Match antenna length to frequency, solder clean joints, and weatherproof connections. Test range on the ground first and avoid mounting near noisy electronics that can degrade the signal.
Webcasting events uses many of the same tricks as live streams: stable encoder, clear audio, and a plan for switching cameras. Promote the event, run a tech rehearsal, and capture backup recordings. After the event, check analytics to see where viewers dropped off and improve the next show.
Finally, LEDs are changing production because they save power and last longer, but quality varies. Cheaper LEDs cut corners on drivers and heat sinks, which shortens life and alters color. Invest in well-built fixtures for consistent results and lower long-term costs.
Quick checklist: test internet speed, set proper bitrates, label DMX addresses, check batteries, and confirm audio levels. Bring spare cables, a USB drive with media files, an extra light, and a small tool kit. Pack gaffer tape, adapters, phone chargers, and spare SD cards to avoid downtime on set.
What is the future of broadcast equipment?
The future of broadcast equipment is on the cusp of exciting transformations. A strong shift is being seen towards IP-based systems, allowing for more flexible, reliable and scalable broadcasting solutions. The rise of 4K, 8K and virtual reality technologies is also expected to significantly influence the broadcast equipment market. Additionally, cloud-based services and AI are set to revolutionize how we manage and distribute content. In short, we're heading towards an era of smarter, more advanced and efficient broadcasting.
23.07.23
Maverick Renfield
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