How to multistream

What is Multistreaming?

Multistreaming, often referred to as simulcasting, is the practice of broadcasting a single live video feed to multiple online platforms at the same time. Instead of choosing between streaming on Twitch, YouTube Live, Facebook Live, or other popular platforms, multistreaming allows content creators to be present on several of them simultaneously. This strategy is designed to maximize audience reach and engagement by meeting viewers where they are, rather than expecting them to migrate to a single platform.

Why Multistream?

The primary benefit of multistreaming is expanded audience reach. Different platforms attract different demographics and user bases. By streaming to multiple platforms, you expose your content to a wider variety of potential viewers who might not follow you on a single platform. This can lead to faster channel growth, increased viewer engagement across different communities, and potentially more monetization opportunities if you are eligible for them on each platform.

Furthermore, multistreaming provides a form of redundancy. If one platform experiences technical difficulties or unexpected downtime, your stream can continue uninterrupted on other platforms. This ensures a more reliable viewing experience for your audience and minimizes lost viewership due to technical glitches.

How Does Multistreaming Work?

Multistreaming typically involves using a software encoder or a hardware encoder. The encoder takes your video and audio input, processes it, and then sends it out to multiple destinations. There are two main approaches:

Software-Based Multistreaming

This is the most common method for individual streamers and small content creators. It involves using software on your computer to manage the stream. Popular options include:

• OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software): A free and open-source software that is highly customizable. While OBS Studio doesn't have built-in multistreaming, you can achieve it through plugins like 'Restreamer' or by using a service that integrates with OBS.
• Streamlabs OBS (SLOBS): Built on OBS Studio, Streamlabs offers a more user-friendly interface and integrated features, including direct multistreaming capabilities to certain platforms or via services like Restream.io.
• Dedicated Multistreaming Services: Platforms like Restream.io, Castr.io, and StreamYard act as intermediaries. You send your stream to their servers, and they then distribute it to your chosen platforms. These services often offer features like a unified chat window from all platforms, stream management tools, and analytics.

For software-based multistreaming, you generally need to configure your encoder software with the stream key and server URL for each platform you want to stream to, or configure it to send to the multistreaming service's server.

Hardware-Based Multistreaming

For professional broadcasters and event organizers, hardware encoders offer a more robust and reliable solution. These are dedicated physical devices designed for encoding and streaming. They often provide:

• Higher Reliability: Hardware encoders are typically more stable and less prone to software crashes or conflicts than computer-based solutions.
• Dedicated Performance: They are built specifically for the task, ensuring efficient encoding without taxing a general-purpose computer.
• Professional Features: Many hardware encoders support higher resolutions, frame rates, and advanced audio/video inputs.

Examples include devices from brands like Teradek, LiveU, and Blackmagic Design. These devices connect directly to your camera and network, encoding and sending the stream to multiple destinations, often through a cloud service provided by the manufacturer or a third-party multistreaming platform.

Technical Considerations for Multistreaming

Before diving into multistreaming, it's essential to consider the technical requirements:

Internet Upload Speed

This is arguably the most critical factor. Each platform you stream to requires a certain amount of upload bandwidth. Streaming to multiple platforms simultaneously will require a proportionally higher upload speed. A common recommendation is to have an upload speed that is at least 1.5 to 2 times the total bitrate you intend to stream at. For example, if you plan to stream at 6000 kbps (6 Mbps) across three platforms, you'll need a stable upload speed significantly higher than 6 Mbps, ideally 10-15 Mbps or more, to accommodate the overhead and ensure smooth delivery.

Bitrate Management

You can either stream at a consistent bitrate to all platforms (which your multistreaming service or encoder will handle) or, in some cases, set different bitrates for different platforms if their ingest requirements vary. Higher bitrates generally mean better video quality but consume more bandwidth.

Platform Compatibility and Requirements

Each streaming platform has its own recommendations and maximums for resolution, frame rate, and bitrate. While most multistreaming solutions aim to simplify this, it's good practice to check the guidelines for the primary platforms you are targeting. For instance, Twitch typically recommends a maximum bitrate of 6000 kbps for 1080p streaming, while YouTube Live can accommodate higher bitrates.

Latency

Multistreaming can sometimes introduce slightly more latency (the delay between an event happening and it appearing on screen) compared to streaming to a single platform. This is because the data has to be processed and sent through multiple destinations. While often negligible for entertainment streams, it can be a factor for interactive streams where real-time communication is paramount.

Popular Multistreaming Platforms and Services

Several services and software options are available to facilitate multistreaming:

• Restream.io: One of the most popular services, offering integrations with OBS and other encoders, a unified chat, and the ability to stream to over 30 platforms.
• Castr.io: Similar to Restream, Castr offers multistreaming, RTMP relay, and stream management tools.
• StreamYard: Known for its user-friendly interface and browser-based operation, StreamYard is excellent for interviews and co-streaming, with built-in multistreaming capabilities.
• Switchboard Live: A more professional-grade multistreaming solution often used for larger events and businesses.
• Multi-Platform Integrations: Some platforms are starting to offer limited built-in multistreaming, though dedicated services usually offer broader compatibility and more features.

Best Practices for Multistreaming

• Test Your Setup: Before going live, always do a test stream to ensure all platforms are receiving the feed correctly and that your quality is acceptable.
• Monitor Your Performance: Keep an eye on your stream encoder's performance and your internet connection's stability during the stream.
• Engage with Your Audience: Use a unified chat solution if possible, or dedicate time to monitoring and responding to comments across platforms.
• Understand Platform Rules: Be aware of each platform's terms of service, especially regarding content and monetization policies, as they can differ.
• Optimize for Each Platform (Optional): While multistreaming sends one feed, consider if slight adjustments to your content or call-to-actions might be beneficial for the primary audiences of each platform.

In conclusion, multistreaming is a powerful tool for expanding your reach and engaging a broader audience. By understanding the technical requirements and choosing the right tools, you can effectively broadcast your content across multiple platforms simultaneously.