Scope
This article serves as a how-to guide for setting up a source using WebRTC with a Telos Alliance Axia Altus Virtual Broadcast Console.
Description
This article is meant to help remote users connect with our WebRTC remote monitoring and contribution solutions. This guide references third-party products and should be used according to their instructions. If you experience difficulty getting the installation to work, we are happy to confirm your Altus setup; however, you may need to contact the other company for further assistance.
Why WebRTC?
Leveraging WebRTC technology enables real-time media communications directly between browsers and devices, essentially allowing talent at a remote location to connect to the mixer—all they need is an Internet connection and an HTML5-enabled web browser.
The delay in the headphone back-feed is one of the challenges that talent experience when performing remote mixing, due in large part to the latency from the Internet sending a back-feed with the voice included—this also creates listening difficulty.
Thankfully, on the Pro Audio side, there are many options available in the marketplace that allow users to level the remote audio experience without breaking the budget. Let’s take an in-depth look at four options we have tested successfully, these third-party devices enable users to monitor the local microphone (sidetone) right out of the box.
Options 1 & 2: All-In-One
This is a preferred option for a “simple-setup” as only two connections required to make this work; one to the computer for power and audio transfer (typically via USB) and another for headphone monitoring via a 3.5mm connection. These solutions have a microphone built-in and it can be plug-and-play. The downside to this solution is there is not an easy way to connect monitor speakers in addition to local headphones.
Elgato Wave 3: Link -> https://www.elgato.com/en/wave-3
Elgato Wave XLR: this one lets you choose your microphone, it acts more like a traditional interface without studio monitor connections. Link -> https://www.elgato.com/en/wave-xlr
Shure MV7: Link -> https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/microphones/mv7
As previously stated, there are other options available; however, the options discussed here have been tested in the field. The Elgato Wave 3 and Shure MV7 are equipped with settings for mic gain, headphone volume, and monitoring crossfade built into the microphone; therefore, no other windows audio settings are required for operation. While these microphones are compatible with their own software that allows for even more capability, we encourage you to seek their product information directly for more information.
Option 3 & 4 : Audio Interface + Mic
The approach described below is still a great option and allows more flexibility because you can select your favorite microphone. The concept is the same - the mic goes into the interface via XLR, headphones can be used and most interfaces have a direct monitor. This solution also has the ability to connect studio monitors to use in addition to headphones.
Focusrite Solo: Link -> https://focusrite.com/en/audio-interface/scarlett/scarlett-solo
Audient EVO 4 USB Audio Interface: Link -> https://evo.audio/products/evo-4/overview/
While we covered four field-tested options as of this writing, there are many others available due to the broad range of similar products in the category. Please feel free to let us know if you have found success with additional options.
Let us know how we can help
If you have further questions on this topic or have ideas about improving this document, please contact us.