Streaming: Setting Up Your Encoder

Overview

Amplify Streaming supports both software and hardware encoders, making it flexible for various streaming setups. This guide will walk you through the setup process step by step.

Before You Begin

Ensure you have:
  • An active Amplify Streaming account
  • Your chosen encoder software/hardware installed
  • Stable internet connection (wired connection recommended)

Obtaining Your Streaming Credentials

  1. Log into your Amplify Streaming dashboard
  2. Navigate to Settings > Sources (formerly Equipment Settings)
  3. Your streaming credentials will be displayed:
    • Stream URL (RTMP URL)
    • Stream Key
Tip: Keep your Stream Key private - it’s unique to your account and should not be shared.

Recommended Encoding Settings

Video Settings

  • Resolution options:
    • HD: 1920x1080 (recommended for high-quality streams)
    • HD: 1280x720 (balanced quality and performance)
    • SD: 640x360 (for limited bandwidth)

Bitrate Settings

  • HD 1080p: 4-5 Mbps
  • HD 720p: 2-3 Mbps
  • SD: 800 Kbps - 2 Mbps

Audio Settings

  • Codec: AAC
  • Sample Rate: 48.1 kHz
  • Bitrate: 128 Kbps
  • Channels: Stereo

Setup Guides for Popular Encoders

OBS Studio

  1. Open OBS Studio
  2. Go to Settings > Stream
  3. Select “Custom” as Service
  4. Enter your Stream URL and Stream Key
  5. Apply recommended encoding settings:
    • Output Mode: Advanced
    • Encoder: x264
    • Rate Control: CBR
    • Apply bitrate settings as per resolution

Wirecast

  1. Navigate to Output > Output Settings
  2. Add new destination
  3. Choose RTMP Server
  4. Enter your Stream URL and Stream Key
  5. Configure encoder settings according to recommendations

ATEM Mini Pro

  • Contact Support

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

  1. Connection Failed
    • Verify Stream URL and Key
    • Check internet connection
    • Ensure firewall isn’t blocking RTMP
  2. Poor Stream Quality
    • Review bitrate and resolution settings in encoder
    • Check upload speed (https://speedtest.net)
    • Monitor CPU usage
  3. Audio Issues
    • No Audio
      • Verify audio source selection in encoder
    • Stuttering/Poor Audio
      • Verify bitrate and sample rate settings in encoder
      • Check audio levels

Best Practices

  1. Always Test Before Going Live
    • Use private test streams
    • Verify audio and video quality
    • Check all sources and scenes
  2. Network Optimization
    • Use wired internet connection
    • Close unnecessary applications
    • Monitor bandwidth usage
  3. Regular Maintenance
    • Update encoder software
    • Check for firmware updates
    • Regular test streams

Additional Resources

 

 

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