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Streaming from OBS to Session via RTMP

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OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is free open-source software for video recording and live streaming. This guide explains how to generate an RTMP setup for your Session, add RingCentral Events Session as a streaming destination in OBS, and configure OBS for optimal performance. 

Tip: You can follow the same steps to generate RTMP setup and configure the stream when using any other streaming software.

Important notes: 

When RTMP is not live, a Session room functions as an interactive space according to its settings. Once RTMP is live, certain limitations and conditions apply:

  • The RTMP stream will not be viewable on the mobile app or on mobile browsers; it is only accessible via desktop browsers.
  • You can have a maximum of 10 people on screen when RTMP streaming to a session.
  • Miro, Figma, YouTube, and other engagement features are disabled. You will be able to share your screen, but it will display very small.
  • Closed Captions are not available for RTMP-streamed content. 
  • Consider adding captions directly in your broadcast studio. 
  • The RTMP stream can only be stopped from the broadcast software, not from within the session itself.
  • RTMP cannot be used in Expo Sessions.

Generating RTMP Setup

To generate Session RTMP setup in a multi-track event:

  1. Go to Event Dashboard > Venue > Sessions.
  2. Click Add session to create a new session or hover over an existing Session and click the Pencil icon to open Session settings.
  3. Under RTMP settings, select the Enable RTMP streaming check box.


  4. Click Save.
    ✔ You will be brought back to the list of Sessions. 
  5. Hover over the Session and click the People icon to open the RTMP details.


  6. Click Generate RTMP Setup.
    ✔ You'll be presented with a Stream Key (unique key generated specifically for your event) and RTMPS (a standard URL used across all events on RingCentral Events) for two destinations.
    Note: The first and preferred is the main RTMP server in place. Should any issues arise when connected to the preferred server, we recommend switching to the backup provider. We use MUX as the preferred provider and Amazon's Interactive Video Service (IVS) as the backup.
    Tip: If your streaming software supports multi-streaming, we recommend sending your stream to both the primary and backup servers simultaneously. This ensures an automatic and seamless transition to the backup if any issues occur with the primary stream, maintaining a smooth experience for your attendees. To learn more about technical recommendations and requirements, refer to our guide Streaming to both preferred and backup/fallback RTMP endpoints.

Connecting RTMP to OBS

To add RingCentral Events Session as a destination to OBS:

  1. In your OBS app, go to Settings > Stream.
  2. In the Service drop-down, select Custom.
  3. Paste the RTMPS and Stream Key you've generated in RingCentral Events.
  4. Click OK.
    ✔ Your live stream will now be directed from OBS to RingCentral Events.

Remember, there is roughly a 10-second delay between the source stream and the RingCentral Events Session. 

Tip: For further instructions on setting up and starting your OBS stream, visit OBS Support Center. 

Configuring OBS

To ensure a smooth streaming experience for both the streamer and the viewers, it is crucial to follow specific configuration settings in OBS (or any other RTMP streaming encoder). 

Tip: For more recommendations, refer to our guide on Required RTMP Streaming Encoder Settings.

Output settings

  • Output Mode: Advanced
  • Encoder: x264
  • Bitrate: CBR and up to 8500 Kbps (we recommend going with 5000Kbps for 1080p and 3500Kbps for 720p)
  • Keyframe Interval: 2 seconds
  • CPU Usage Preset: veryfast
  • Tune: zerolatency
  • x264 options: scenecut=0 (this needs to be manually added)

Video settings

  • Base and Output Resolution: should be the same (we support up to full HD 1920x1080p)
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Common FPS Values: 30 (we support 30fps or 60fps)

Tip: On a low internet bandwidth, you can stream with 1280x720 resolution. Most attendees will not be able to tell the difference.

Advanced settings

  • Color Format: NV12
  • Color Space: 709
  • Color Range: Limited

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