AV installations didn’t use to be important for churches. However, the landscape has now changed. Today, many churches are investing in audiovisual solutions for live streaming. Firstly, the COVID-19 pandemic forced many churches to seek alternative measures for weekly sermons and prayers because government-imposed lockdowns and social distancing regulations prevented people from gathering for congregations. In addition, many senior citizens often attend church, and the pandemic raised health concerns for them, meaning they couldn’t attend church regularly.

Installing the right audiovisual solutions from an expert AV installer can help you. AV Installs provides exceptional commercial audiovisual installation services for churches.

Requirements for Live Streaming

Here are the requirements for live streaming. They include:

A Reliable Internet Connection

Live streaming your church services and weekly sermons without a reliable internet connection is challenging. Live streaming services generally require fast internet speeds with greater bandwidth.

You must also consider that your streaming resolution will affect your internet selection. For instance, streaming at HD resolution will require an internet connection with five to ten MBps speed. On the other hand, you’ll need an internet connection with 50 or 100 MBps to stream at 4K UHD.

According to Ofcom, the average internet speed in the UK was 79 MBps, meaning you’re likely to get the necessary internet speed for live streaming from your internet service provider.

Good Quality Camera

You’ll need a good-quality camera to live-stream your church services to virtual attendees. Some churches will even opt for multiple cameras to ensure virtual attendees can view every angle of the church during service.

Selecting the right camera for live streaming is challenging because you’ll want to consider your church’s size, the image resolution, and the level of detail you want to capture. Ideally, you’ll want to opt for a 4K camera or a 1080P Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) camera. You can place the latter at the back of the church for the best viewing angle. PTZ cameras also need a dedicated camera operator to adjust the camera’s settings and set up during the stream.  These cameras also allow greater control, allowing the operator to focus the zoom and positioning during the stream.  

Microphones and Audio Systems

Microphones and audio systems are essential for broadcasting your live stream. You don’t want virtual attendees to be unable to hear the sermon or the weekly service. As a result, investing in the right microphones and audio systems is crucial.

You’ll need external microphones to ensure a broadcast-quality audio feed for your live stream. Refrain from relying on built-in microphones from a laptop, webcam, or camera. Instead, consider using the audio feed from your existing PA system.

PC or Laptop for Driving the System

You’ll also need a computer to drive the system. The simplest option is to connect a laptop to your preferred streaming platform. You’ll need to connect it to the audio interface and camera.

Some software solutions exist to help you improve your stream by adding effects, titles, and overlays. However, they have a steep learning curve.

Alternatively, you can also opt for recorders and encoders. These purpose-built devices eliminate the need to connect a laptop for live streaming.

A Broadcasting Platform

You’ll also need a platform to broadcast your live stream. Most churches don’t bother investing in developing a broadcast platform because the investment isn’t worth the reward. As a result, you can opt for an existing broadcasting platform, like YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook.

We recommend opting for YouTube because the platform provides consistently reliable quality and service.

Get Started with AV Installs

Are you looking for assistance with live streaming your church sermons and weekly services? AV Installs can help you.

Our product offerings include all the necessary products such as TV lifts, ceiling recessed projector lifts, motorised TV brackets, etc. We offer nationwide services, covering areas like Shropshire, Cheshire, Powys, and more.

Visit our website for more information. Alternatively, contact us to get started.