What is Multistreaming and How to Use it?
Multistreaming refers to the process of broadcasting a live stream to multiple platforms simultaneously. It is also known as simulcasting. It was essentially invented as a solution to the common issue of choosing the best streaming platform and has evolved to become one of the most sought-after marketing tools. With multistreaming, you can widen your audience base considerably by including viewers from different platforms, which was not possible earlier. Let’s look at how multistreaming works.
How to Stream on Multiple Platforms?
There are two ways in which you can multistream to different platforms simultaneously. You can multistream by using an encoder, or alternatively, you can use a cloud-based service which is popularly known as restreaming.
Multistreaming Using Encoders
There are two types of encoders that you can use for multistreaming: hardware and software. The main deciding factors when choosing a suitable encoder are the cost and complexity. Content creators usually use hardware encoders over software because they are considered more reliable and are comparatively easier to manage. Software encoders are generally preferred by professionals since they require add-ins and complicated configurations.
Hardware Encoders
Multistreaming with a hardware encoder is more reliable as compared to using a computer with software. The reason behind it is that the hardware does all the heavy lifting in terms of processing power. With hardware encoders, each stream has to be configured individually using RTMP and stream key values from the CDN.
Software Encoders
Software encoders such as vMix and Wirecast allow the user to stream to multiple destinations. Some of these encoders have all recommended encoding settings for different live video platforms as presets. So, you just have to copy and paste those RTMP and stream key values from the CDN into the software.
Cloud-based Multistreaming
It is by far the most convenient multistreaming option where you don’t have to concern yourself with the bandwidth, computer’s power, or the encoder’s configuration. Cloud-based multistreaming allows you to live stream as conveniently as possible. You have to send your stream to the service provider instead of the usual live streaming platforms. The service provider then handles the task of multiplying and configuring each stream for each target platform before it is sent.
In addition to that, you get access to various competitive tools that allow you to interact directly with your audience, regardless of their platform. One of the most popular cloud-based streaming platforms that you can trust is Styck. The reason why it is considered the most preferred software to stream to multiple platforms is its straightforward interface and a plethora of built-in tools.
The Styck multistreaming platform enables you to simulcast to different platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, etc. from a single window. It has a multi-chat feature that allows you to connect with the audience on a personal level through Q & A, polls, etc. With the help of multi-chatting, you can interact with the audience from different platforms and make them feel more involved and valued. In addition to that, it lets you invite up to four guests to the livestream so that you can add more value and different perspectives to the livestream broadcast. The best part about Styck is that it does not require any additional setup or downloads, so you can focus all your energy on making your content more engaging and creative.
Now that you know how multistreaming works, get started with it today! Styck is offering a one-month free trial, so you can be doubly sure about it.
