Watching a concert live is an exciting experience that allows you to see your favorite musicians perform right in front of you. With the rise of live streaming technology, it’s now possible to watch concerts live from the comfort of your own home. Here are some of the main ways you can watch a concert live without actually being there in person:
Live TV Broadcasts
One of the most traditional ways to watch a concert live is through a live TV broadcast. Major networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox often air concerts and music festivals as special events. This allows you to watch the concert as it happens in real-time just like you would if you were there. The downside is that network concerts are less frequent and you’re limited to only the concerts they decide to broadcast.
Live Streaming Online
As live streaming video technology improves, more and more concerts are being live streamed over the internet. Platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, and artists’ own websites offer high-quality streams you can access from anywhere. With online live streams, you get a much bigger selection of concerts to choose from compared to just network TV. You can watch full festival live streams from Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits. Individual artists like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift also live stream their concerts for fan access worldwide.
Pay-Per-View Concerts
For big concert events, you may have the option to purchase a live pay-per-view ticket. Pay-per-view allows you to live stream the concert directly through your cable or satellite provider. This delivers an HD concert experience with multiple camera angles just like watching it on TV. Pay-per-view concerts tend to be major arena/stadium shows or music festivals. Recent examples include U2’s Joshua Tree Tour, Coachella 2017, and Paul McCartney’s Egypt Station Tour. Prices are usually between $15-$40 per concert.
Virtual Reality Concerts
An emerging way to experience live concerts in a whole new way is through virtual reality. VR concert live streams allow you to attend the concert through a virtual reality headset. This gives you the feeling of actually being there live. The artist can even be made to appear virtually on stage in your own home! VR concerts are still a newer and expensive technology, but apps like VR Concert and MelodyVR are pioneering this futuristic concert experience.
Choosing a Streaming Service
Once you decide you want to live stream a concert online, you’ll need to figure out the best streaming platform to use. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a service:
Video Quality
Be sure to check the video quality offered on a streaming platform. You’ll want HD quality video with smooth streaming that looks crisp on your device. Avoid grainy or buffering video that ruins the concert experience.
Audio Quality
Audio is just as important as video. The sound needs to be mixed properly so you can hear every instrument, vocal, and moment of the concert clearly. Make sure the platform offers good stereo or surround sound.
Device Accessibility
You want to be able to access the concert live stream across all your devices. Most services offer apps for smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. Being device agnostic gives you the most flexibility.
Cost
Free streams are ideal but paid services offer perks like higher quality video, better support, and reliability. Consider the price versus value when choosing a paid platform. Concerts range from $5-$40 based on production.
Reliability
Technical issues can ruin a stream, so test the platform first. Check for a consistent connection speed and quality. Issues are normal but frequent buffering or downtime is unacceptable.
Service | Video Quality | Audio Quality | Device Access | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|
YouTube Live | 720p HD | Stereo | All devices | Free |
LiveXLive | 1080p HD | 5.1 Surround | All devices | $9.99/month |
Twitch | 1080p HD | Stereo | All devices | Free |
Optimizing Your Viewing Setup
To get the best live concert experience at home, you’ll need to optimize both your technology setup and viewing environment. Use these tips to recreate that in-person concert excitement:
Display Size
Project the concert on the biggest screen you have. Big TVs 55″ and up or video projectors capture all the on-stage action. Small laptop screens won’t cut it.
Sound System
Use external speakers or headphones to hear the concert audio crisply. Laptop speakers lack depth. Connect to surround sound for optimal immersion.
Get Comfortable
Treat this like you’re at the actual venue. Sit back on the couch or a comfy chair and relax. Standing or walking around can also make you feel engaged.
Lights Down
Concerts happen at night so turn down the lights or use lamps to set the mood. Dark environments increase focus on the stream.
Snacks/Drinks
Have concert-friendly snacks and drinks on hand just like at the real event. This creates the full experience.
Enter Fullscreen
Enable fullscreen mode on the concert player for maximum impact. Cut out distractions from other apps and desktop windows.
Second Screen
Pull up concert hashtags and social media on your phone to interact with other viewers live. This brings back the communal feeling.
Concert Live Stream Troubleshooting
Despite the best preparation, live streams can still encounter technical problems. Try these troubleshooting tips if your concert stream goes down:
Refresh the Page
If the stream stops or is laggy, first try refreshing the entire page. This reestablishes a fresh connection.
Lower Video Quality
Choppy video is often due to insufficient internet speeds. Lower the stream quality in settings to compensate.
Check Service Status
The streaming platform may be having a widespread outage. Check their status page for updates.
Restart Devices
If refreshing doesn’t help, fully restart your streaming device and router. This clears any software/memory issues.
Verify Internet Speed
Run a speed test. You may need 5-10Mbps minimum for smooth HD streaming. Contact your ISP if speeds are consistently low.
Switch Devices
Try moving the stream to a different device like mobile, smart TV, or computer. Rule out device-specific problems.
Use a VPN
If the stream isn’t available in your region, use a VPN service to access a server in an authorized country.
Contact Support
Reach out to the streaming platform’s customer support if all else fails. They can diagnose issues directly.
Conclusion
Live streaming makes it possible to experience concerts in real-time without taking a step outside your home. While it lacks the true in-person atmosphere, streaming platforms provide amazing access to concerts worldwide. With the right tech setup and streaming service, you can watch high-energy live shows from music’s biggest stars any night of the week. Just pick your favorite artist or festival and get ready to rock out live.
Concerts have entered a new era of connectivity through live streaming. Fans can support their idols from anywhere across the globe. Even better, streaming makes concerts more inclusive, affordable, and convenient for the mainstream. The communal thrill of live music is now available at the push of a button. While streaming can never perfectly replicate seeing concerts in real life, technology continues to close the gap. One thing is certain – live music is alive and well in the digital age thanks to live streaming.