At this moment, the world is grappling with the impacts of COVID-19. Nevertheless, this challenging period has sparked a rise in DJ sets being streamed live, providing an ideal channel for DJs to connect with their followers, fend off the monotony, and bring some much-needed joy into the abodes of many.
Indeed, the digital sphere seems overwhelmed with livestream DJ sets, but why not seize the opportunity to try your hand at it? Embrace your creativity and pick up a fresh skill. By the time we’ve turned the tide against COVID-19, you’ll be adept at streaming with a creative flair.
Let’s dive into key components for launching your own livestream DJ sessions:
- Utilizing your smartphone
- Securing high-quality audio
- Selecting the right streaming platform
- Setting up your computer
- Adjusting audio configurations
- Navigating audio routing
- Implementing wireless camera feeds
- Initiating your live broadcast
After mastering the fundamentals detailed below, you’ll be all set to unleash your creativity. But first, here’s how to lay down the groundwork for your livestream DJ presentations:
Streaming DJ Sets with Your Smartphone
Starting with your smartphone is the most cost-effective and straightforward path to livestream DJ sets via platforms like Facebook using OBS in 2020, an approach I highly endorse for novices. With many of you likely familiar with Facebook Live, Instagram Live, Periscope, and Twitch, it’s a breeze. The cameras on today’s smartphones outshine USB-linked cameras, giving you a ready-to-go setup.
Equip yourself with a tripod and phone holder to secure a steady, well-angled shot—shaky footage will turn viewers away in no time.
Lighting is also crucial—it varies with location and your phone’s specs. Consider some budget-friendly extra lighting to ward off a gloomy livestream appearance.
Achieving Superior Audio on Your Smartphone
Start by confirming your phone or tablet sports a headphone port like this:
For newer iPhones or iPads, this adapter will do the trick:
Then, employ a cable like this to fool your device into acknowledging a headset mic connection:
This allows any 3.5mm cable (standard headphone size) to serve as an input from your mixer or controller. Even though headphones output mono sound, just tweak your levels during recording for optimal results. An inexpensive yet ingenious fix is to use an attenuator like Fentronix, which you can snag on eBay for circa £8. This method is widely adopted for injecting pristine audio directly into your phone, with all parts totaling about £20.
Determining the Optimal Platform for Your Livestream DJ Sets
Choosing where to stream your DJ sets boils down to your preferences. Based on your aims and social media savviness, you’re likely to start with FB live before possibly progressing to YouTube or Twitch.
Simultaneous streaming across multiple platforms is feasible through services like Restream.io.
Crafting DJ Streams Using Your Computer & OBS Software
For those desiring broader creative control and multi-platform streaming, setting up through a computer is key. Among your software choices, starting with the Open Broadcast System (OBS) is advisable due to its simplicity and cost-free offering. Wirecast is a professional alternative for streaming DJ sets.
OBS has grown popular, chiefly because it’s free. It has evolved positively and garnered a treasure trove of free tutorials on You tube. Grab OBS without cost here.
Launching OBS brings you the Setup Wizard. Choose ‘Optimize for streaming,’ followed by your Canvas size—essentially your digital stage for all your visuals.
Resolution should be dictated by your graphics capabilities, internet speed, and streaming site. Since FB live outputs at 1080×720 and YouTube at 1920×1080, tailoring accordingly is wise.
OBS automatically tests your system and suggests ideal settings to prevent lags. When in doubt, adhere to its recommendations.
You’ll then enter your Stream Service and Stream Key, which securely connects OBS to your social platforms.
For Facebook, generate your Stream key here. YouTube requires a different approach here. For simultaneous streaming, consider Restream.io.
With OBS, anything displayed can be a ‘source.’ Break down your DJ streams into ‘scenes,’ like:
- Scene one – An opening graphic or waiting message
- Scene two – The live performance
- Scene three – A thank-you note
Incorporating multiple scenes lends professionalism, though not mandatory.
To remain cost-efficient, utilize your device’s in-built webcam. Adjust the size on OBS and position it well.
Fine-Tuning OBS Audio for Your Livestream
Right, it’s time to integrate audio into your live sessions. Add an ‘Audio Input Capture’ in OBS. Mac users take note: your sound output port can double as an input—simply change the setting under Preferences and Sound. Non-Mac users, plug straight into your Audio In port.
Once the basics are set, Youtube is brimming with tutorials to spark your creativity. GIFs, images, videos, logos—it’s all within reach once you’re comfortable with the setup.
Channeling Audio Internally from Your DJ Software
If your setup involves DJ software like Traktor or RekordBox DJ without a soundcard connection, internal audio rerouting to OSB is necessary. On a Mac, this means third-party software. OBS recommends iShowU Audio Capture, with guidance provided here.
With setup complete, a green meter in OBS will indicate active audio. Now with camera and audio configured, let’s dive into “Going Live.”
Setting up Your Smartphone as a Wireless Cam during Livestreams
For additional views, your smartphone can act as a wireless cam. The EpoCam app for iOS (or IPWebcam for Android) paired with corresponding drivers can seamlessly link to OBS.
This secondary feed becomes an added ‘Scene’ in OBS, ready to frame however you like. Note that latency might cause slight delays. EpoCam’s full version has a price tag, but the Free version might be enough for starters. It’s a worthwhile tool for enhancing your streams.
It’s Showtime: Going Live with Your DJ Set
Your visuals are ready, tunes are playing, and OBS is humming. Time to broadcast live!
Most platforms will hold a beat before actually going live once you activate ‘Start Streaming.’ Ensure your previews in OBS look top-notch, then launch live from the platform’s browser.
And that’s how you command the virtual DJ booth for your online crowd!
But before you plunge into the world of livestreaming, heed these dos and don’ts—they could make or break the success of your virtual gig:
- Spread the word about your upcoming sets. Keep your audience in the loop about when you will stream and what type of session to expect—promotion is key.
- Engage with your spectators. A bit of interaction goes a long way. Reply to comments and share a joke, but let the music remain center stage.
- Subpar audio is a no-go. Scrutinize your audio clarity as mentioned—it’s crucial for securing returning viewers.
- Avoid complete or extended tracks. To dodge copyright detection and keep your broadcast on air, mix things up swiftly, employ remixes and effects, and consider scratching.
- Choose a worthy backdrop for your streams. A clean, organized space focusing on you and your gear is more enticing than clutter or last night’s leftovers. Remember, it’s about the music and your interaction with it.
- Keep your cool with the alcohol. Overindulgence during a live performance can tarnish your reputation.
Most importantly, relish the experience—it’s meant to be enjoyable.
After your performance, save the recording. It’s excellent material for future social media posts and provides a downloadable treat for your followers.
If this roadmap to digital DJ sets has been helpful, drop us a comment with your thoughts. If you’ve got extra tips or use a different setup altogether, chime in—your insights are welcome!
