At this point I'm more inclined to use a software encoder platform (OBS, Wirecast) vs a hardware encoder. I find them to be too restrictive with respect to the ability to tweak settings, etc. They work well for the crowd they are marketed for however there is definitely not enough control from my perspective. Preliminary tests have shown for me better quality output using wirecast at the same settings as the AMP (bitrate & framerate). I think the algorithms built into the hardware encoder from BMD aren't as evolved as OBS and Wirecast.
It also boils down to inputs and the signal chain. One thing that many have complained about is the lack of scalers on all the inputs (now on AMP and Constellation) however in my view BMD forcing me to choose a single standard of resolution and use it through my entire chain actually creates a better end product. The less interpolation the better the output. It's like making a xerox of a xerox of a xerox. Diminishing returns.
What would be particularly useful is if BMD would let you stream to the ATEM Streaming Bridge and another output at the same time. EG - we'd like to stream to FB and multiple streaming bridges in the building. This would be particularly useful in situations where educators right now want to teach live in one room, but broadcast to other rooms as well as an online platform.
BM as always comes up with great new gear!
Best,
David
LouisBacker wrote:Roman Pytkin Pekarek wrote:I hope BMD will add some new features for bigger atems ..
Agreed. There is currently nothing streaming-wise for professional grade ATEM mixers and none of our Blackmagic and broadcast cameras has HDMI (quite understandably). It seems the focus is on YouTubers hooking up DSLRs, when there's a large pro-customer base out there having to stream via third-party hardware and software.