One of the most critical aspects of streaming is delivering high-quality audio and video. Whether you’re a streamer, podcaster, or make videos for YouTube, the one place you can’t drop the ball is on production quality. People notice, and it leaves you looking unqualified to be streaming. But what are the best tools for streamers?
With the right tools, having crisp, clear audio and video is a breeze. Without it, your audience’s experience will be affected, and you’ll get complaints. Or worse yet, people will click away, leaving you with nothing but crickets on your streaming channel.
Are you sending out buzzing? A power source or cables usually cause that. What about too much background noise? Might want to change your location or check your mic settings if they’re too sensitive. But what else can you do?
Imagine a play-by-play that’s choppy. Ugh, no thanks. I’m out of there. Admit it, you hate it too. The easiest way to stop these nuisance issues in your audio and video is to be prepared ahead of time. If you’re considering getting into streaming, or create content for a YouTube channel, here are five tools for streamers and content creators you’ll want to check out.
Five Best Tools for Content Creators
Tools for streamers are varied and extensive, but you don’t need to go overboard. Here are a few essentials that will have you creating the best content in no time.
- A good Microphone or Headset
- HD Stream Webcam
- Stream Deck
- HD Capture Card
- All-in-One Podcast Production Studio
This first four are great for streaming on Twitch or YouTube. The last option is perfect for podcasting.
A Good Microphone or Headset It’s Essential
Sound accounts for about half of the user’s experience. If your video looks perfect, but the sound sucks, that will affect the whole experience of your viewers. That’s why you, as a content creator, need to make sure you have a good microphone or headset, depending on your taste.
Don’t overlook this simple upgrade. You can easily check out your favorite online resources or Amazon and see what works within your budget. Be sure to check out our top picks for microphones that can serve well for live streaming, YouTube, or podcasting. Make sure to check out the reviews and see how others are using the equipment.
HD Stream Webcam
This piece of equipment is crucial. If you want to provide your viewers with the best possible experience, you want to have a quality cam. Wow your audience with solid video quality on your streaming, and they’ll be back for more.
Whether you’re streaming on Twitch, or you’re on YouTube, this is one investment you’ll be glad you made. If we were to recommend one product over the other, we’d have to go with the Logitech C922x Pro (link to Amazon).
It delivers superb video quality, and they are a company you can trust. They’ve been in the market for a while and are a trusted brand when it comes to gaming and computer accessories. With more than 3,000 strong reviews and ratings on Amazon, others agree this webcam is pure win.
Stream Deck
Let’s talk about relevance. As much as we hate to say this, you can be easily forgotten if you don’t cover all your bases. With that in mind, you need to be present on all platforms. When you’re a content creator, it’s just part of the deal.
The cool thing is that with a Stream Deck, the process is straightforward. Click the button, and wham, you’re on all your social platforms. It doesn’t get easier than that. The Elgato Stream Deck is top-notch for content creators (link to Amazon). With a 4.9 out of 5 stars, it doesn’t get much better.
Streamlining your workflow just got easier. Set keys, quick go-to, the solution doesn’t get any simpler. The best part, it detects your system and easily adapts. This is a no-brainer.
HD Capture Card
While we’re in Elgato’s wheelhouse, let’s mention another one of their excellent solutions. Their HD capture card is a great option. Still, because they offer multiple versions, they suggest you check out their quick quiz to help you figure out which capture card would work best for you based on if you’re streaming from a console, a Gaming PC, iOS, or even your camera.
We think the quick win if you don’t want to go through the entire process is to go with the Elgato Capture Card HD60 for the best bet (link to Amazon). What the card does is it records what’s going on with your screen and streams it at the same time. Think about how much easier this is. What’s awesome is that you’ve got great post-production footage later, without needing pricey hardware.
Portable Podcast Studio
Lastly, we’ve got one more thing worth considering when it comes to the best tools for content creators. Say you’re a podcaster or thinking about becoming one, setting up the equipment, or knowing which equipment to get can be frustrating because there are so many people giving you different information.
We say, make it easy on yourself, choose a company you can trust, like RODE. Know what they did? They created an all in one podcast solution. This takes all the hassle out of the process and simplifies the set up while giving you incredible quality.
With the RODECaster Pro starting a podcast is very simple. You get a production and recording system that delivers excellent audio quality. It can support up to four presenters while offering an easy way of connecting to smartphones to receive phone calls, USB, and Bluetooth sources.
It also features eight programmable pads offering instant playback of sound effects and jingles. The podcast can be recorded to a computer or to a microSD memory card that can be inserted in the unit. It is easy to use, and all of the controls are intuitive.
The delivery is excellent from a top-notch, well-known brand. When you want super audio quality, you can’t go wrong with the RODECaster Pro, which is an all-in-One Podcast Production Studio (link to Amazon).
Conclusion
There you have it, our top 5 tools for Twitch streamers, content creators, and anyone trying to get their audio, video game going. Another tip from Twitch themselves is to remember to chat and interact with those watching. It helps keep them watching longer when they feel included.
If you’ve been thinking about getting into streaming, there’s never been a better time. People are watching in droves, and with so many platforms, this media is blowing up everywhere, and the audience isn’t getting any smaller. In fact, they say that every year we’ll be watching more and more videos, so get in there and get creating! Now it will be easy since you know what tools to use to get set up.
Excellent audio and video don’t have to be a challenge, it’s just knowing what tools to use. Streaming should be fun, not a hassle. Be sure to pick up the gear mentioned above, and you’ll be on the road to a better streaming experience today.