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FAQ: Mixcloud Live

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Below are the answers to frequently asked questions we've received about Mixcloud Live. If you have any further questions, please get in touch by filling out this form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Is Mixcloud Live a licensed platform? 

Yes, Mixcloud is a licensed service that has agreements in place with many rights-holder partners around the world, including major record labels, independent record labels, publishers, distributors, performance rights organisations, collective management organisations, and more.

What should I avoid streaming on Mixcloud? 

Please ensure that your content adheres to our Terms of Use, which includes adhering to the same restrictions that apply to uploaded shows. You can find the relevant limits outlined here. Additionally, please note that content falling outside the definition of 'live' (including music videos) should be avoided.

 

How good does my internet connection need to be to stream on Mixcloud Live?

We'd recommend using an internet connection with at least 3 Mbps upload speed to ensure seamless streaming of both audio and video. You can check your internet speed using a free tool like fast.com.

Can I stream without using streaming software?

Yes, by using Mixcloud Live Studio, you can stream with just a webcam and a microphone. To find out more about using Live Studio, see our guide here.

What are the best audio and video settings for using Mixcloud Live with a stream key?

The best settings for streaming on Mixcloud Live are:

  • Audio quality: 320k
  • Video quality: 720p to 1080p
  • Bitrate: 2500kbps to 3500kbps and CBR, not VBR
  • Frames Per Second: 30fps
  • Visual ratio: 16:9
  • Keyframe interval: 2s

Are there limits to how long I can stream? 

No, there are no limits currently set for how long a stream can be. However, please be aware that streams lasting longer than the usual Mixcloud show tend not to have as many viewers overall.

Also, our system will cut streams at the 8-hour mark to make the system work better, resulting in a refresh every 8 hours. If you're planning to do a stream for longer than 8 hours, we'd recommend checking that your broadcasting system will automatically reconnect at this point.

Please note that the stream must be between 15 minutes and up to 6 hours long in order for us to provide a recording for it. If you're planning on streaming for over 6 hours and want to save a recording, you'll need to use your streaming software or another program. 

 

Can I stream using an app?

Yes, you can use any app for Android or iOS that allows for the addition of an RTMP.

We generally recommend streaming from a desktop platform as this is more reliable. However, there are mobile apps available for live streaming such as https://streamlabs.com/mobile-app and https://restream.io/. 

Can I stream on Mixcloud using a ShoutCast, IceCast or BUTT?

Mixcloud Live needs RTMP to connect. As internet radio streaming services like ShoutCast, IceCast and BUTT don't provide an RTMP connection, you won't be able to use them to stream with us.
 

Can I embed my stream on another site?

Embedding the stream on a different site is something that we are working on, but it's not currently possible.

Does Mixcloud notify my followers I’m going live? 

Yes, we'll notify your followers if they're using the platform on either the app or desktop when you go live. However, we'd recommend also sharing the link to your stream (which will always be www.mixcloud.com/live/[your username]) prior to going live.

Does my stream get archived? 

Yes, we'll save up to 6 hours of the audio from your stream. You can find out more here. However, please note that as we're primarily an audio platform, we won't be archiving the video content from your stream at any point.

Remember that you can record your stream using your streaming software or your usual Mixcloud show recording software.

Can anyone view my stream?  

Anybody with the link to your stream on Mixcloud Live can view it - they won't even need to have a Mixcloud account. For more information, see our article here.

Can people view my stream using the Mixcloud app?

Yes, streams are available via both the iOS and Android apps. For more information, see our article here.

Can I stream to my Channel subscribers only? 

This isn't possible at the moment. However, we're currently working out the possibilities to do this.
 

Why do my viewers need to log in to write in the chat? 

We want to make sure that the chat function on Mixcloud Live is for legitimate viewers only. Logging in to chat means we can better stop spam, trolls and other inappropriate behaviour on Mixcloud. It also allows us to work on bugs more efficiently.

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