Live streaming your DJ set

A whole bunch of DJs around the world are currently restricted to their homes. Not the ideal environment for people who like being around other people, preferably on a busy floor. Maybe you’re just having fun, or maybe you’re ready to get DJing professionally. Either way, let’s make the best of it with this guide to live streaming your DJ sets from home. 

Get the streaming software

First, you’re gonna want to download and install OBS. Open Broadcaster Software is a free program that allows you to assign and transmit audio and video feeds to live broadcasting platforms like Twitch, Facebook Live and YouTube. Install, set it up (here’s how) and enter your stream key to begin streaming to your preferred platform. It’s pretty easy to get set up. 

Pro tips for live streaming

Often you’re unable to monitor the live feed of your set yourself while doing it. Maybe you’ve only got one device, or the bandwidth is poor. Have a DJ or audio buddy watching your stream from their place to comment on the audio and video quality so you can tweak it should anything go wrong. Typical problems include clipping, audio dropouts and unintentionally broadcasting in mono. 

Copyright

Yeah, about that. You might get cut off for playing previously released music when you use Facebook Live and YouTube. Facebook and Instagram allow you to hit larger numbers than platforms like Twitch, but you might not want to restart the stream every time the AI comes along to shut you down. It seems that standard practice among DJs right now is to use Facebook to begin the set, alerting people to the unrestricted party on Twitch. Another option is Zoom, which was recently used to 

Streaming your DJ set live is a great way to kill some time and share your selection with a new audience. Due to the recent changes, people are behaving differently online. It’s a good opportunity to get your name and your work out there. Sign up for the DJing Basics course with DJ Courses Online today and use this time to take the next step in your DJ career. 

John Bartmann is a music producer and DJ.