Setting up a low-delay videoconference using Sling

The SlingStudio Console offers a Video Conferencing/Low Delay option for the Video Production setting. This setting minimizes latency to the extent that's technically possible so that videoconference conversations can take place more naturally, without having attendees "step on each other" as they speak.

The Video Conferencing/Low Delay option also lets you fine-tune the amount of latency, in case you experience difficulties like dropped frames. You can opt for more or less latency reduction without having to create a new project file with a different Video Production setting.

Getting the gear set up

To begin, here's the overview for setting up a typical low-delay videoconference arrangement.

Equipment plan:

SlingStudio Console low-latency article: Equipment plan

SlingStudio Console project file settings:

When creating your project file, for VIDEO PRODUCTION, choose the Video Conferencing-Low Delay option.
After choosing that, set the delay to Ultra Low or Low.
Note: If you have a very good network connection you can choose the Ultra Low delay setting with no problems. But if you see and/or hear problems such as video and audio frame drops, then change the Delay Setting to Low. If there are still streaming issues, then you may need to choose the Standard setting. This deactivates the low-delay setting on-the-fly—without forcing you to create a new project file.

VFA (video follows audio) videoconferencing—suggested setups

Setup 1: Interview

In this suggested interview scenario, the camera is focused on each individual participant:

SlingStudio Console low-latency article: Interview setup diagram

Setup 2: Remote Conferencing

This scenario shows a remote conference with three or four participants using SlingStudio locally, while the remote participants are using a videoconferencing application such as Skype or Zoom.

Please note the camera arrangement:

Each participant has a camera focused on them;
The default camera is set to focus on all participants.

SlingStudio Console low-latency article: Remote conferencing setup diagram

Setup 3: Discussion

Finally, here's a simple suggested scenario for a discussion between participants. Each individual has a video source pointed at them. There is no default camera.

SlingStudio Console low-latency article: Discussion setup diagram

Setting up a low-delay videoconference using SlingStudio

Do you need to set up a videoconference, and are concerned about reducing audio/video latency (also called delay or lag)? Here are some specific pointers.