Alright, in our last edition we talked about software encoders and as promised...this edition is all about hardware encoders!
As we’ve said before, whether you’re new to live streaming or have been broadcasting live streams for years, the live stream encoder you choose and the settings you use are of great importance to your live streaming success.
As before, we won’t be promoting any particular brand of hardware encoder over another, but these are a few options that continue to work well for some of Lightcast’s clients.
...here we go! 
There are many great hardware encoders on the market, all compatible with Lightcast.com, but here are the three recommendations of the day!
First…The Pearl
You’re probably looking for reliability, a robust encoder that won’t let you down right? With those characteristics in mind it’s no wonder why so many of our clients recommend the Pearl 2 and Pearl Mini “all in one” live production switchers by Epiphan Encoders!
These solid performers offer built-in video mixing and live streaming. The Pearl 2 and Pearl Mini are designed to capture, combine, stream and record multiple video sources simultaneously! Whether it’s a live concert, a training event, or a Sunday morning church service, either of these could be the answer to your live encoder needs.
More information about their encoders & how to get one: https://www.epiphan.com/products/#prods-pearl
Next…Wirecast Gear
The term “Turn Key” likely sparks a myriad of images in our minds, but the primary notion that is evoked by this expression is that there is little left to be done and you can start using it right away. The Wirecast Gear hardware encoder exemplifies the phrase “Turn Key". It is a fully configured live video streaming production system.
You can feasibly begin streaming in minutes with an end-to-end system configured specifically for your needs and with Wirecast Pro included alongside Gear's custom-designed hardware.
And here is how you can get Wirecast Gear: https://www.telestream.net/wirecastgear/
Next is…Teradek
Many of our clients have provided very favorable feedback on Teradek encoders over the years, specifically about the Vidiu X and Vidiu Go encoder - an ultra-slim HD live streaming encoder which plugs in to professional cameras, switchers, and media players. Due to its compact size, it is easy to use it on-the-go, mount it to your camera, or station it on your production desk. It also comes with the Vidiu App for iOS and Android to configure your destinations, stream settings, and network connections, all from your smart device.
The VidiU Go utilizes Teradek’s proprietary networking technology, which creates a “bonded” network that combines all available Ethernet, WiFi and 3G/4G/LTE modem connections to provide the most robust, dependable stream possible.
More information on Teradek's Vidiu product: https://teradek.com/pages/vidiu-x
Important Note
Regardless of the hardware encoder that you choose, here are some features to look for when making your selection. Your hardware encoder must...
1. …have the ability to output multiple bitrates simultaneously
2. …can address multiple server destinations simultaneously (such as for redundancy as in backup streams to other CDN POPs, or sending a stream to the Social Media POP)
3. …send RTMP
Most hardware encoders can do many more things, but these are the basics that your new hardware encoder really need to do well.
We hope these recommendations from Lightcast clients provide some helpful options for you and that you are able to find great success with your live streams.
For previous classes, visit our tips page: https://help.lightcast.com/tips-of-the-week
Would you like a specific topic being covered by an upcoming Lightcast Academy Class? Don’t hesitate to contact us!
Happy Streaming!
Your Lightcast Customer Success Team