Using Live Streaming Software With RTMP Mode

Crowdcast’s RTMP Studio enables you to use professional live streaming software, like OBS, Ecamm Live, or Wirecast with Crowdcast. This works by sending video to Crowdcast via a standard method known as RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol). If your software or hardware can send an RTMP output, then you can connect it to a Crowdcast event.

With RTMP Mode, there is a video delay (latency) of ~20 seconds similar to Facebook Live and Youtube Live. Your video will stream and record in HD to all devices.

If you are considering the use of RTMP Mode to add lower thirds, overlays, or intro/outro screens you should first check out our Studio to see if Crowdcast’s built-in features meet your needs without needing additional software.

Using RTMP Mode

To access your stream keys to go live, enter RTMP Mode via the More tab at the bottom left corner of your Crowdcast event.

You will then have access to your Server URL and Stream Key. These can be generated at any point ahead of your event. You should enter the Server URL and Stream Key into your app or device, and the session will go live automatically when a video signal is detected.

Connecting OBS to RTMP Mode

Note: Each third-party tool is different, and you should follow that tool’s instructions for broadcasting with RTMP.

Many hosts who wish to use RTMP Mode will look to OBS as it’s simple but allows for multiple scenes and inputs. To connect OBS to RTMP Mode, first set up your scene(s) and media source(s). Then open your OBS Settings. Select Stream from the menu on the left, and copy over the Server URL and Stream Key provided by Crowdcast. You’ll initiate the stream through OBS by clicking Start Streaming. Here’s a short video illustrating these steps:

Encoding software settings for the best viewing experience

By default, RTMP Mode will deliver the video at the same quality received from your encoder app or gear. Based on our experience, we strongly recommend the following encoding software settings for the best viewing experience:

Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p)

Video bitrate: 2000 - 3000 kbps

Audio bitrate: 64 or 128 kbps

Frame rate (FPS): 30

Keyframe intervals: 2 seconds (do not use automatic keyframe intervals)

If your bitrate is within our recommendations, and you're still experiencing dropped frames, try lowering the bitrate by 100 - 500 kbps and run another test event. We do have a team of external specialists who can assist you with your setup if needed.

As a rule of thumb, you should never disconnect your encoder during a broadcast. This can cause playback issues for your viewers and broken recordings.

Questions or suggestions? Email us at support@crowdcast.io. Happy Crowdcasting! 🎥