Belabox Info
A True Gamechanger for IRL streaming!
The Belabox setup uses a Jetson Nano to act as an encoder and network bonder. Most importantly it uses SRT instead of RTMP. There is much better info out there than what I can provide here. RationalIRL (the Belabox dev) also has a great discord community.
Why Nano/Belabox over LiveU Solo?
- Bela uses SRT not RTMP
- Nano uses way less power and USB C powered compared to 12V Solo
- LiveU bonding (LRT) is $45/month and Belabox Cloud and SRT + SRTLA relay server for bonding is $10/month via GitHub support
- Nanos (if available) are less than $200 compared to $800+ for Solo
- Solo allows 2 usb, 1 wifi, and 1 LAN connection and Bela allows as many as you can efficiently power without issues. I run 4 USB modems.
- Solo sometimes has overheating issues and I haven't had that with the Nano (yet)
If the technical aspect of the setup concerns you, Rational has made it super easy to get up and running if you can flash an SD card. Sometimes you have some messing around to do related to power issues and modems, but his Discord is very helpful. If you stick to the recommended equipment list and short cables, you should not have issues. LiveU is more plug and play if you have an RTMP endpoint.
Summary of specific Belabox items I use:
Encoder: Jetson Nano 2GB running Belabox
Capture Card: Elgato Cam Link 4K
USB Hub: iDsonix 4-port 5V/2A
USB-A to Type-C Cable: JXMOX 0.8ft 3 Pack
USB-A to Type-C Cable: Etguuds 2-Pack, 1ft
Metal Case: Jetson Nano Metal Case/Enclosure
Fan: 5V Cooling Fan
USB Sound Card (if not using ATEM): CableCreation USB Audio Adapter
Battery: Charmast 23800mAh 20W PD* (powers Nano, USB fans, and shoulder cam from same battery with no issue)
Modems: Verizon Wireless Jetpack 7730L, MiFi 7000 for AT&T, T-Mobile Test Drive with Mint Mobile Sim (referral link)
WiFi Adapter: TP-Link TL-WN725N
Organizer: Cocoon GRID-IT
For a more complete gear checklist, please see the gear page.
Belabox setup
