STACK #184 Feb 2020

LIFE TECH FEATURE

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GOOD GEAR You can start out with next to nothing for the basics of streaming.The bare minimum is a PC (or current-gen console for gamers) and, most critically, a high-speed dependable Internet connection. Upload matters here, so you want at least an nbn50 Internet plan that has up to 50Mbps of download bandwidth but, more importantly, up to 20Mbps upload. Without deep diving into the associated jargon, this will let you stream at a resolution that your future audience will thank you for. Internet speed is less important for content creators, but remember that slower upload means a longer time to get your videos online, which may also lead to failed uploads.

will want to invest in a whisper-quiet keyboard to avoid too much clacking. Content creators have a bit more freedom because they should be recording audio separately and minimising sounds for the best output audio. Bust a cap PC gamers can benefit from investing in additional gear that can help up their streaming or content-creation game. For game streamers, focus more on what you’re playing and less on multitasking with the Elgato Stream Deck Mini. It takes up minimal desk real estate,

which is great for on-the-go

streamers on gaming laptops. Plus, six fully customisable

LCD tactile keys for one-touch macro control let you

Clear throat Whether you’re a streamer or content creator, a microphone is critical to clear communication with your live or on-demand audience. Viewers will get frustrated with tinny or echoey sound, so while a mic-armed

program useful streaming functions. Game streamers and content creators can both benefit from investing in a capture card, with the Elgato Game Capture HD60 S a great starting point. This game-capture device can stream and record game footage from any gaming gadget that uses HDMI, including old consoles for older-gen streams.

headset may help for consolidating your side-hustle arsenal, a dedicated microphone offers a noticeable edge. The Stadium Memphis USB

microphone sits on your desk with its own fold-out tripod to record your clear vocal musings. Streamers, place tripoded mics on your desk and below your chin for best sound. Game streamers

Seeing is believing Once you’re beyond the bare basics, or if you want to hit the ground running, there’s some good gear that’ll make life easier and keep your audiences engaged. For streamers, you’re going to want a camera and microphone so your viewers can see you and hear you. Ideally, clearly for both primary senses. In a pinch, you can opt for a HD webcam like the Logitech C615, which is easy to use and allows for HD (720p) streaming and Full HD (1080p) capture. If you’re skimping, save dollars on the 720p Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000. Content creators can also use webcams to splice themselves into videos for that important-these-days human touch.

Keep still To keep your microphone off your desk, you’ll want to invest in something like the Stadium MICARM Microphone Boom Arm. This’ll clamp to your desk and manually adjusts to your vocal needs care of three pivot points and a 360-degree microphone holder. For the streamer or content creator on the go, a Joby GorillaPod 1K Tripod features wrappable legs for camera steadying on almost any surface. Need lighting that can travel with you? Slip a Manfrotto Lumimuse 3 LED Light into your pocket.

44 FEBRUARY 2020

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