Does Dacast Support X264 Streaming?

X264 Live Streaming Support

Yes, Dacast supports x264 streaming for both live and on-demand video content. X264 is very similar to the H.264 video codec, and both are ideal choices for broadcasting with Dacast.

What is an Encoder?

The H.264 and x264 codecs have to do with your live stream encoder. Video encoding is a process used to convert the RAW video files captured by a live streaming camera into digital files suitable for live streaming over the internet. This process uses either a hardware or software encoder.

The encoding process happens in a matter of moments when it comes to live streaming to keep your latency low. 

With Dacast, you can use any encoder that outputs into RTMP or HLS. 

If you have never used an encoder before or are unfamiliar with what this is, we recommend starting with our customized version of our OBS Studio. This software is free and will allow you to start streaming in a few clicks.

Required Live Encoder Settings

The following live encoder settings are required for live streaming with Dacast, regardless of your selected resolution and bitrate:  

VIDEO CODEC	H.264 (x264 may work)
FRAME RATE	25 or 30
KEYFRAME INTERVAL	2 secs (or 2x frame rate)
SCANNING	Progressive
ENCODING BITRATE	Constant (CBR)
AUDIO CODEC	AAC
AUDIO BITRATE	128 kbps
AUDIO CHANNELS	2 (Stereo)
AUDIO SAMPLE RATE	48 kHz (48,000 Hz)

 

Additional Resources

• What is Video Encoding?
• Introduction to Live Streaming: A Walkthrough
• VOD Video Renditions & Bitrates for On-Demand Content
• H.266 Codec: What is Versatile Video Coding (VVC)?
• The Best Video Codecs
• The Best Audio Codec for Video Streaming
• New Transcoding Limits on VODs
• Transcoding Walkthrough