Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast

Subject: Tech: Mudcat CDs Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 06 Nov 11 - 03:58 PM

I am investigating the possibility of doing a Skype broadcast of the THIS IS US UK launch party which will be on 14 Nov 20:00 to 23:00 GMT.
There are many issues to address before this could happen, so this is just looking at the logistics.

Following on from the Skype link established at FSGW-Getaway which actually was only one to one from Washington to Alaska, I wondered about the possibility of doing a video conference.
According to skype, this could be possible for upto 24 recipients as long as there is one with a premium Skype account (mine is just regular)
So before 14th, I would like to experiment. If anyone would like to experiment with me --and I need one with a premium account, please sign up here. I understand that there might well be internet available from the premises where we are having the party.

This could be something!
What d'yer think 'catters? Any interst out there?

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 06 Nov 11 - 07:04 PM

That's a wonderful idea!! I have skype, but not premium. WOuld love to see this happen!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bobad
Date: 06 Nov 11 - 07:27 PM

There are other options available to live stream such as Ustream - free and easy.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 11:13 AM

OK USTREAM might work. Looks easy enough to create a free(with ads) account.
Anybody used USTREAM?
Anybody want to give a test run?

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 11:28 AM

Just a slight correction to the above - the evening will end at 10:30pm, not 11:00.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 12:54 PM

Thank for the correction George.

By way of experimentation, I set up a channel on USTREAM called "Mudcat Cafe Folk and Blues" I also recorded a video and it should be set to play when the channel is off air.
So I would be grateful if someone could check it out to see if a)they can find the channel, b) if the stored video plays.

www.ustream.com

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: SussexCarole
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 03:00 PM

All ok Barrie.

I signed up then found the channel and the video - no problems. Irritating Red Bull advert to start with before the video but that's a small price to pay for a free facility.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 03:34 PM

Same here, found it & it plays. Adverts Yuk, but free....

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: The Barden of England
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 03:55 PM

Yes - works for me.
John Barden

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 04:09 PM

OK, In the interests of further experimentation, I will look at doing a trial live broadcast on Wednesday evening, time to be advised.
If anyone else is interested, join up to USTREAM, registration is free.

And it's just a one off fun thing for the UK CD launch party!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bobad
Date: 07 Nov 11 - 04:23 PM

Working fine over here in Canada.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 01:57 AM

Meanwhile I have secured the password for the Social Club's Wi-Fi, Barrie. We're in...

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 08 Nov 11 - 05:44 AM

Works for me, Yippee!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:41 AM

Test run tonight (Wednesday 9th Nov) 22:00 to 23:00 GMT but opening up at 21:45 GMT to get initialised & tuned in.

www.ustream.com

Channel: Mudcat Cafe Folk and Blues

I would suppose that anyone tuning in can also "transmit" so if anyone has a song or three they would like to do tonight............

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: SussexCarole
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:51 AM

This could be fun - will sort out the camera & sound on Andrew's computer - see you there.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: DrugCrazed
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:17 AM

But I'm at a session! So I can't come :-(

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:55 AM

Good to hear your dulcet tones Barrie!

I'll try and log in, but the connection here is very slow at the moment.

Best wishes,

Peter

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Mysha
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 07:26 AM

Hi,

I tried and found the broadcast, apparently no sign-up necessary.
I'm busy until ten tonight, but as we're slightly ahead of our time over here, you may not be starting until after I get home.

If all else fails, they also have a video section, for non-broadcast recordings I presume. That could be used to record first and make public slightly later.

Bye,
                                                                  Mysha

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 02:34 PM

Getting ready to fly..............in 2hrs or so.

Am I nervous????????????????????????????????????

You bet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 03:42 PM

1 hour to go for the experimental video transmission.

www.ustream.tv

Mudcat Cafe Folk and Blues channel

Why not give it a whirl, might bring a wry smile to your face....at least!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 03:56 PM

I'm listening to your test whilst you since Pete Seeger's Rainbow Race and now Crossing the Bar, one of my favs! Lovely..so glad you found this site. Seems to work a treat here!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:12 PM

it works, Barry!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:34 PM

Now transmitting pre showtime stuff ---tracks from the BLUE PLATE SPECIALS -PLUM!

Anyone getting this????

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:42 PM

Yes, hearing it!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: SussexCarole
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:52 PM

Load and clear too

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Mary Humphreys
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:54 PM

Yes it is coming over loud and clear.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Mysha
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 04:56 PM

Hi,

I'm hearing music; I don't have the blue plate special to compare. Loud, but definitely not clear. A lot of distortion; I just hope that's on the CD track.

Bye
                                                                                                                               Mysha

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:00 PM

I have the CD in front of me, sounds like transmission distortion.

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:01 PM

Hello Barrie, you gonna entertain us?

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Crane Driver
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:02 PM

Receiving you. Not clear how to join in, if it's possible

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:03 PM

we are on now

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:03 PM

Yes, Barrie, I am still listening in COlorado!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:14 PM

Hmmm, advert got in the way of the poem for me. Sound is definitely distorted, especially when voice is louder. Softer seems to work better. Maybe it's the microphone?

Have fun everyone, pillows calling!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Mysha
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:20 PM

Hi,

Quite enjoyable "radio", if a bit distorted, but the video part is rather heavy, and overburdens my computer, or at least the specific browser I'm using.

Indeed, it might well be the microphone; it definitely seems volume related.

(Where is Mudchat when we need it?)

Mysha

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:24 PM

Yes, the sound distorts a bit when voice is louder, but after nothing like this for so long, it is just grand to see the possibilities add up. Well-done, Barrie and thanks for a bunch of songs-new-to-me. Love the poems, too.

One question and then I have to go: will be something where we could take turns being on camera/mic in order to share?

kat

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Mysha
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:32 PM

Hi,

OK, found a browser that is just fast enough to get the entire picture. Definitely more computer-intensitive then e.g. YouTube. I guess I perfer to actually be there. But Cat is right: We can hear, and see the performance, and we can even sing a repeat of the chorus when Barrie signals us to. Quite an accomplishment.

Bye
                                                                                                                                 Mysha

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Fossil
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 05:37 PM

Seems to work for me. Lots of potential here!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 06:15 PM

phew!

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 07:46 PM

Chuckles, yes, Barrie, but even more smiles and a few tears. Well worth the effort, as I suspect anything you choose to do is...like the Mudcat CDs.:-)

thanks,

kat

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 09 Nov 11 - 08:05 PM

Tears? That bad huh?
Seroiusly, it was quite an amazing thing to do.
However, there is no feedback, like regular broadcasting I guess.
And the worst thing is leaving the mic on and saying something bad about...(Sh...you know who!)

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: My guru always said
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 03:25 AM

Glad it went well Barrie, well done for your hard work in this experiment!

Must admit, Mudchat would have been nice, maybe worth going in the chatroom while the broadcast is on? Does it work at the moment?

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: severed-head
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 04:02 AM

Dashed home from Molly Dancing practice last night and switched on computer, hoping to catch at least some of the broadcast. Internet was down - bloody Virgin Media.
Glad it went well and look forward to listening on Monday.
Garry

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: bradfordian
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 06:42 AM

Another suggestion has come my way for videoing the Monday night Launch party.

This is to video the event off line with a cam-corder then put it up on youtube where it would be seen at people's leisure.

Would anyone care to turn up with a cam-corder????

bradfordian

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Crane Driver
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 06:46 AM

Yes, the idea certainly works. What you actually get, of course, will depend as much on your own system and internet connection as it does on anything else, although the initial quality of the sound and picture recording will limit what can be done. Possibly a 'real' video camera hooked up to the internet would give better quality than a webcam, but of course that will require more processing power and bandwidth both ends. For some reason I didn't get the adverts which seem to have got in the way a bit for other people. Shame it's only a 'one way' system with no opportunity to contribute (from my cursory reading of the details - I may well have missed something). Perhaps it would be better to make a decent video of proceedings and post to U-tube instead - unless there is a need for people to see it 'as it happens' whatever the quality.

Andrew

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 09:47 AM

I was scuppered by my bandwidth as well. It seems to be very low here at the moment.

I think the idea of persuading some-one expert with a camcorder to video the night and then put it up on You Tube is a good one. The only think is to ensure that no one walks across the front of the camera and obscures the view!

Best wishes,

Peter

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Nov 11 - 10:05 AM

While a video on youtube would be great, I think you all are being too perfectionist (she said with a grin.) It's LIVE, Field Recording-type stuff reminiscent of Mudcat Radio which had video and was LIVE, RAW, and Wonderful. We did have a chat which sat next to the video on our monitors and that made it even more fun as it felt as though we were right there, too, but still and all, to those of us who can't be there, who may have never *seen* some of you, the LIVE thing would be a preference, if it comes down to an either/or choice.

Thanks,

kat

Subject: RE: Tech: Mudcat CD launch Skype Broadcast
From: Genie
Date: 11 Nov 11 - 02:19 AM

I'd consider that a wonderful birthday present, Barrie!