Simulstream on YouTube

Simulstreaming, also known as Simulcasting or Multistreaming, is a single-source feed that broadcasts to multiple sources simultaneously.

Simulstreaming lets you go live with the same content across multiple platforms at the same time to reach viewers.

Simulstreaming

Simulstreaming best practices

1. Verify your YouTube channel

   Ensure your YouTube channel is verified and has live stream enabled.

2. Manage your accounts on other platforms

   Keep in mind that you will need active accounts in good standing on all channels and other platforms. You will also need to know how to locate the Stream Key and RTMP Server URL for each, unless your encoders don’t require the need. When in doubt, check the platform’s respective help documentation.

3. Make sure you have sufficient internet upload speed

   For high-quality simulstreaming, sufficient internet upload speed is critical for the live streams to work properly. Recommended setting ranges are based on video ingestion codec, video ingestion resolution and frame rate. Choose live encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions.

   To make sure you have sufficient upload speed for your simulstream:

   1. Estimate your ideal bitrate by adding up the target bitrates for each live stream. For example, if you use 6 Mbps for Stream 1 and 4 Mbps for Stream 2, your combined target is 10 Mbps. To ensure stability, especially on shared connections, aim for an upload speed 1.5 to 2 times that total, meaning 15 Mbps to 20 Mbps for a 10 Mbps target.
   2. Perform a realistic speed test (including audio and video with typical movement) to confirm your available bandwidth.
   3. Go live .
   4. During your live stream, monitor live stream health indicators on the alerts in the stream health tab within the Live Control Room.

4. Choose the right hardware or software for encoding

   To truly unleash the power of simulstreaming, you'll need the right setup for encoding your live streams. You have two main choices for encoders, and knowing how to pick the right one is crucial. Create a live stream with an encoder.
   1. Local hardware or software encoder

      Your device's main processor (CPU) handles the demanding task of converting video into a streamable format. This processing occurs directly on your computer or mobile device and supports multiple simultaneous streams.

      When to know if a local hardware or software encoder is for you:

      • You want the absolute highest possible quality for your streams.
      • You prefer complete control over your setup.
      • You have a powerful computer with a robust CPU.
   2. Cloud service encoder (relay services/cloud mirroring platforms):

      How a cloud service encoder works: Send one high-quality live stream to a cloud service, and they handle distributing it to all your desired channels, resolutions, or platform. While this option often involves a subscription, many services offer free plans with varying limitations, alongside paid options that unlock enhanced features and capabilities.

      When to know if a cloud service encoder is for you:

      • You're looking for simplicity and ease of setup.
      • You need a solution that's light on your computer, especially if your computer is older or tends to slow down. This ensures smooth, lag-free live streams.
      • You plan to stream to more than two channels.

Regardless of your choice, once you've set up your encoding method, you have the option to configure your encoder to send data to the specific live stream event you've created on YouTube.

Setting up multiple live streams on YouTube

1. Select and set up your chosen encoder:
   • To run two separate live streams on the same channel, you need to create two distinct live events. Each event will have its own unique YouTube Stream Key and Server URL, which you'll find in the Live Control Room. It's crucial to keep your stream keys private.
   • Find the Stream Key and RTMP URL for each additional platform.
2. Configure Outputs: In your third-party tool, add each platform as an output/destination, entering the correct Stream Key and RTMP URL for each if required.
3. Set Encoding Settings: Configure your video resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and keyframe interval.
4. Start Streaming: Start your stream from your third-party software, the feed will automatically be distributed to all your configured live stream events across your channel and other platforms. You'll be able to monitor this in your feed in the Live Control preview window.

FAQ