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Streaming Video to YouTube

Use FFmpeg to stream live video content directly to YouTube, enabling real-time broadcasting of events, presentations, or personal streams.

VideoAlchemy Compos File

version: 1

generate_path: "./generated"

tasks:
  - name: Streaming Video to YouTube
    command: ffmpeg
    inputs:
      - id: input_1
        source: 'input.mp4'
    codecs:
      - codec_name:
          video: libx264
          audio: aac
        video_bitrate: 3000k
        audio_bitrate: 160k
        audio_sampling_rate: 44100
        preset: veryfast
        maxrate: 3000k
        bufsize: 6000k
        pix_fmt: yuv420p
        g: 50
    outputs:
      - id: output_1
        overwrite: true
        format: flv
        source: 'rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2/your-stream-key'

Command

ffmpeg -re -i input.mp4 -c:v libx264 -preset veryfast -maxrate 3000k -bufsize 6000k -pix_fmt yuv420p -g 50 -c:a aac -b:a 160k -ar 44100 -f flv rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2/your-stream-key

Parameters

  • -re: Reads the input file at its native frame rate, simulating live streaming.
  • -i input.mp4: Specifies the input video file. Replace input.mp4 with the path to your source video file.
  • -c:v libx264: Uses the H.264 codec for video encoding, widely supported for streaming.
  • -preset veryfast: Sets a balance between encoding speed and quality. Other presets can be used depending on CPU capability.
  • -maxrate 3000k: Sets the maximum video bit rate, which helps control the stream's quality and bandwidth usage.
  • -bufsize 6000k: Sets the buffer size, which can affect video quality and stability of the stream.
  • -pix_fmt yuv420p: Ensures the pixel format is compatible with YouTube and most other services.
  • -g 50: Sets the group of pictures (GOP) size, affecting video quality and keyframe frequency.
  • -c:a aac: Uses the AAC codec for audio encoding, recommended for YouTube.
  • -b:a 160k: Sets the audio bit rate, balancing audio quality and bandwidth usage.
  • -ar 44100: Sets the audio sampling rate, standard for high-quality audio.
  • -f flv: Sets the output format to FLV, compatible with YouTube's RTMP servers.
  • rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2/your-stream-key: Specifies the YouTube RTMP server and your unique stream key. Replace your-stream-key with your actual YouTube stream key.

Possible Errors

  • Connection refused or failed: Occurs if there's an issue connecting to YouTube's servers. Ensure your stream key is correct and your internet connection is stable.
  • Invalid input or codec parameters: Happens if the input file or specified codecs are not compatible with YouTube's streaming requirements. Double-check your command parameters.
  • Permission denied: Can arise if there are restrictions preventing FFmpeg from accessing network resources. Check your firewall settings or network permissions.

Additional Information

  • Stream Key Security: Keep your stream key private, as anyone with the key can stream to your channel.
  • Internet Bandwidth: Ensure your internet connection has sufficient upload bandwidth to support the chosen bit rate comfortably. Test your connection speed if unsure.
  • Audio-Video Sync: Streaming, especially at higher qualities or over unstable connections, can lead to AV sync issues. Monitor your stream and adjust parameters as necessary.
  • Latency: YouTube live streaming has inherent latency. Choose the appropriate latency setting in your YouTube live dashboard to balance interaction and stream quality.