“New kid on a block” – video streaming with XSplit

Category : Live Video Encoders, Live Video Streaming

There is a new addition to the video streaming tools – XSplit software. As of December 2011 this application is in public beta, with most of the features completed and fully functional. We performed testing of the application and were pleased with what the software can offer. XSplit offers ability to combine video from multiple sources, such as video cameras, screen capture, images, text overlays and video files. Each source can fill-in entire screen, or just section of the screen. Text overlay or text labels can be static, or dynamic, pulled from web sources and updated on periodic intervals. Currently, beta tester can receive special (pre-release) pricing on the software. But even list price  of $99 a year is attractive enough to enhance your church services webcasting. Church Video Streaming services are compatible with XSplit RTMP streaming, and we will provide more details of Xsplit streaming functionality in upcoming days.

XSplit features, as listed on the XSplit.com web site

  • Mix screen capture, cameras, videos, flash and images
  • Make compositions with 3D effects, z-order and color control
  • Use text labels with static text or dynamic text from web sources
  • Change scenes with advanced and customizable transitions
  • Record and broadcast your presentations preset service providers
  • Connect to your own custom RTMP server or CDN provider
  • Conduct several broadcasts in different qualities at the same time
  • Use Xsplit.net service to stream one stream to multiple targets
  • Capture output sound from speakers and mix microphone input
  • Use as camera source with Skype™ or Adobe Flash™

Streaming Church Services Live Video with Wirecast

Category : Live Video Encoders, Live Video Streaming, Video Streaming Solutons

A good live video encoding tools that your church may want to purchase and use is Wirecast software. It is more than just video encoding and broadcasting tool. It has rich functionality that your church video crew will like. It supports multiple streaming options and video formats, including AAC audio encoding, if you plan to stream, or record files for viewing on iPhones. But probably the best feature of Wirecast is its ability to mix various sources for broadcasting. You can broadcast live video feed from a video camera, display a static image, broadcast a video file from disk, select live audio input or an audio file.

Wirecast supports video broadcasting to flash streaming servers via RTMP. To configure flash live video streaming select Broadcast->Broadcasting Settings from the menu and specify video server and stream properties. Additionally, you may chose to save video stream to disk for future upload of this video to church video archive.

Whenever you have a guest or your senior pastor preaching, you can add titles to your video broadcast to inform your viewers about people and special events.

Additionally you can split your video output onto sections and broadcast video overlays, side by side or picture in picture shots.

Overall Wirecast is one of the best live video streaming encoders to be used by your church.