Live streaming has become a universal tool for online creators. Whether you’re hosting a panel discussion or a DJ set, the beauty of live streaming is that it helps you tap into a global community that you may have never had access to otherwise. But, if you’re just starting out, you might not be sure which live stream set-up is most suitable for your creative needs in terms of equipment. We’ve put together a list of the most popular setups, including gear recommendations that we’ve seen used on Mixcloud.
Check them out and decide what suits you best.
DJ basic set-up
Gear
Standard DJ set-up:
- Laptop/computer
- A DJ controller, CDJ and mixer or turntable or mixer
Live-stream set-up:
- Camera (in-built webcam or external)
- An audio interface
- Headphones
- Monitors (left and right speakers)
This setup will give you everything you need to start your live DJ set. If it’s your first time live streaming, you can go live directly from your browser using Mixcloud Live studio. This will save you time so you don’t need to download third party software like OBS You’ll also need a camera. This could be the in-built webcam of your computer, a phone, or – if you can afford it – an external device. Some cost-effective ones we recommend are the Aukey FHD Webcam and Logitech c920 webcam.
Finally the most important piece of gear is your DJ controller. This is a DJ’s setup after all, so the quality of your audio matters. In light of this, we suggest you purchase a separate sound card (from the one in your laptop) to ensure your audio is processed through it’s own device. Once you’ve got this sorted you can then connect your preferred DJ set up to your computer and happy days!
The radio show set-up
Gear
- Camera (in-built webcam or external)
- An audio interface
- Microphone
- Headphones
- A mixer (optional)
If you’re thinking of starting a talk show, this is the set up for you. It’s as simple as our DJ Basics setup, but you can swap the CDJ or DDJ in favor of a good condenser microphone to get the clean vocals you want.
Top tip: if you’re opting for a condenser mic (or any type of mic really!) we still recommend that you use an interface which will help connect the microphone to your desktop. Try Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. If you don’t have soundcard you can opt for a more affordable, USB microphone like Blue Yeti.
What’s more, streaming with Mixcloud means that your audio quality will always be retained with our high fidelity streaming, perfect for you to turn those shows into a top quality podcast series.
The audio-visual set-up
Gear
- DSLR camera
- Green screen
- Video capture card
Take your visuals to the next level and incorporate a green screen. This set up works well for DJs too, check out Basement Tapes who live-stream audio-visual experiences.
The green screen will provide a nice canvas for you to add all your graphics, illustrations, photos or video montages in the background. Just add them in a third party software like OBS like you would your graphic overlays. The video capture card functions similarly to a soundcard, essentially allowing your computer to recognize your external camera.
If you need tips on upgrading your live stream visuals, check out our article here.
The full professional set-up
Gear
- All of the gear mentioned above
- Camera switcher
- Lighting (e.g sound reactive LED or ring light)
This one favors more advanced live streamers that are looking to level up their streaming experience as a whole. Firstly, multiply your cameras. We’ve seen Mixcloud streamers use up to four cameras each at different angles, highlighting a different aspect of their space. For instance, you can have one close up shot on your decks, one front-facing shot, and then one above you. Using different cameras also requires a snazzy bit of kit to aid smooth transitions – if you’re looking to purchase indulgences we recommend the Blackmagic ATEM Mini PRO Camera Switcher.
Secondly, lighting! If you’re streaming at an advanced level and can afford professional level lighting. We recommend Elgato products that are specifically made for streamers
Experiment with different kinds of lights to get the ambience how you like it. Invest in a key light to spotlight the most important part of the stream – you! Or purchase some sound reactive LED lights so that your lights are on beat and ready for those drops.
That’s it!
No matter where you’re at in your streaming journey we hope these tips inspire you to get creative with your streams. Let us know what tips you’re keen to try out. Or if you’re already on the streaming game, recommend us your top tips – find us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Facebook @mixcloud.