Live Streaming Encoder Advancements for Enterprise and Broadcast Workflows on Videoguys Live
Video encoders are valuable tools for live streaming at an enterprise or a broadcast level. Live streaming has become more and more prominent in the past year, and the industry is moving towards the bigger and better end of the spectrum. There are a lot of different types of live streaming encoders, and different encoders will be better suited for different types of workflows.
On today's Videoguys Live, we're running down some of our favorite encoders, and the workflows they fit the best in.
Check out the webinar, below:
What is an Encoder:
First and foremost, what is an encoder, and how does it fit in a live production workflow? Simply put, an encoder is the device that enables a user to send h.264 video to RTMP, and stream to a CDN like YouTube, or Facebook.
Check out this diagram to learn more:
Live Streaming Encoders are all Grown up:
It is not enough to simply encode to a streaming format. New encoders are being purpose-built for advanced workflows in the live streaming space, to meet different needs of different users.
Modern Encoders Commonly can be Found
with these Professional Features:
- Flexible Inputs
- Integrations (Kaltura, Panopto, Etc.)
- Remote productions
- Connectivity (NDI, SRT and more)
Use an Encoder to get More out of your Gear:
Encoders can be used for more than just creating and facilitating your stream. When you pair an external encoder with your existing gear, you can push your stream to the limits, and come up with a tremendous product.
Your encoder can be used to....
- Stream from Cameras Directly for a single input stream
- Pair with an existing mixer for multicamera live streaming
- Offload the encoding from a computer based solution to unleash more features
Comparing Encoders:
Below, we've put together some data on some excellent encoders, which we featured on this webinar. The chart below will highlight the price, inputs, channel and recording capabilities of some of our favorite encoders.
Stand Alone Encoders:
Stand alone encoders are great devices to facilitate your stream at a high quality, and often come with a ton of excellent features. Take a look at some of our favorite picks for standalone encoders, below.
ClearCaster Micro and Enterprise:
The Wowza ClearCaster Micro and the ClearCaster Enterprise are encoders that are built for two separate markets. Users of the Micro will find that the ClearCaster Micro is a standalone encoder that comes with an SDI input, and embedded audio. Users can record either directly to the appliance or the Wowza Cloud.
The big brother of the Micro is the Enterprise. This device comes with all of the features of ClearCaster Micro, with expanded capability for enterprise level streaming. The device features both SDI and HDMI, as opposed to a single SDI input. It also includes expanded streaming capability with three years of Wowza Cloud Orchestration vs the one year that comes included with the Micro.
Epiphan Pearl Nano:
The Epiphan Pearl Nano is the newest addition to the Epiphan Pearl Family. While the Pearl Mini and Pearl-2 are popular switcher encoders, the Pearl Nano is an excellent, cutting edge standalone encoder. Its very customizable and compact, making it perfect for a variety of streaming workflows.
Users of the Epiphan Pearl Nano will notice great flexibility with both SDI and HDMI inputs. Recordings can also be sent simultaneously to an SSD drive or to an SSD. Best of all, the Pearl Mini offers excellent custom layouts for a unique and professional stream.
Learn more about Epiphan HERE.
Matrox Monarch Family:
The Matrox Monarch family are great set it and forget it encoders that are perfect for education, corporate streaming and houses of worship. They also offer integration with Kaltura, and the ability to record in high definition while streaming.
Check out some of the specs of these units below:
- HDMI and SDI inputs
- Analog Audio Input (Stereo)
- RTMP/RTSP/RTP, Unicast and Multi Univast
- Record to SD card or External USB hard drive
- Record high definition and stream simultaneously.
- $2,495
- HDMI
- Analog Audio Input (Stereo)
- RTMP, RTSP/RTP, Unicast and Multi Unicast
- Record to SD card and USB External Hard Drive
- Record in high definition and stream simultaneously
- $995
- HDMI and SDI
- Analog Audio Input (Stereo)
- RTMP, RTSP/RTP, Unicast and Multi Unicast
- Record to SD card and USB External Hard Drive
- Record in high definition and stream simultaneously with expanded inputs
- $1,295
Switching Encoders:
Some encoders allow for both switching and encoding, meaning you can bring in more than one input- whether this is multi cameras, a camera feed with a presentation, etc.
YoloBox:
The YoloLiv YoloBox is a monitor, recorder and encoder all in one, in the form of an android tablet. It's compact and powerful, making it a perfect all in one live streaming encoder.
With YoloBox, users can stream via wired, WiFi or 4G. This device also allows for two HDMI and one USB video inputs. It's priced at just $899.
Learn more about YoloBox HERE.
RGBlink mini and mini+
The RGBlink mini and mini+ don't have streaming capabilities directly, but they are great switchers that can be used to expand your encoders capabilities. With RGBlink mini, you can add chroma key, and four HDMI inputs to your encoder. With the mini+ you can add PTZ camera control and more! Both devices include USB program out and HDMI out.
Check out the RGBlink mini and mini+ HERE.
Roland VR-1HD:
The Roland VR-1HD is another great device with a USB program output that will allow you to bring your feed into an external encoder or a computer to stream directly. This device features four HDMI inputs, to switch, stream, and create custom layouts.
Cellular Bonding Encoders:
LiveU Solo:
The LiveU Solo is a great encoder that allows users to pull in WiFi, Ethernet and cellular modem internet sources, and then bond them into one super signal. The LiveU Solo is available in two flavors, with the HDMI only version and the SDI version that also features an HDMI input.
Teradek VidiU X:
Teradek VidiU X is the newest encoder from the Teradek VidiU family. It is also a cellular bonding encoder allowing users to stream from anywhere.
Check out some features from the VidiU X below:
- Stream via 4G, Wifi or Wired
- Bonding Encoder (Option)
- HDMI
- Audio over HDMI or 2 Channel Analog Line or Mic-in
- RTMP(S)/RTSP
- Stream live from anywhere, perfect for remote streaming
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