Wirecast - Detailed Review
Video Tools
Wirecast - Product Overview
Wirecast Overview
Wirecast is a comprehensive video production and streaming software developed by Telestream, catering to a wide range of users, from beginners to professional content creators.Primary Function
Wirecast is essentially a software-based video switcher that allows users to create professional video productions. It enables real-time switching between various video sources, including live cameras, pre-recorded videos, presentations, remote callers, and capture cards. This versatility makes it ideal for live streaming or recording videos for platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.Target Audience
The target audience for Wirecast includes a broad spectrum of content creators, such as:- Brand and content creators
- Worship services
- Live sports broadcasters
- Media and broadcasting services
- Educators
- Gamers
- Anyone looking to produce and stream high-quality video content.
Key Features
Multistreaming
Wirecast offers a cloud multistreaming feature that allows users to send a single stream to the cloud and distribute it across multiple platforms simultaneously, such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch. This feature reduces the need for additional hardware and bandwidth, making it more cost-effective.AI-Powered Tools
The latest versions of Wirecast, such as Wirecast 16.1, integrate AI-powered tools like Virtual Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ). This feature allows the camera to dynamically track and follow the user’s face without the need for specialized PTZ cameras, simplifying the production process for all levels of users.Production Features
Wirecast includes a range of production features, including chroma key, graphics, titles, scoreboards, and more. It supports various input devices such as cameras, capture cards, and audio devices, and can output media by streaming to the internet, CDNs, or recording locally.Stream Targeting
Wirecast also allows for targeted streaming, such as the ability to set up LinkedIn Live targeting, where users can specify audience regions, languages, and other criteria to narrow down their target audience.Conclusion
Overall, Wirecast is a versatile and powerful tool that simplifies the process of creating and streaming high-quality video content, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Wirecast - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The user interface of Wirecast, particularly in its latest versions such as Wirecast 15 and Wirecast 16, is crafted to be intuitive and efficient, catering to a wide range of users from beginners to advanced professionals. Wirecast 15 introduced several UI enhancements aimed at improving usability. The interface now features bigger, brighter fonts and clearer tally lights, making it faster and easier for users to find and access the tools and features they need.
The UI is organized in a way that provides push-button simplicity for entry-level users while maintaining the flexibility and technical control that advanced users require. This is achieved through various user-friendly dashboards, windows, and sliders that hide much of the operational complexity, allowing users to focus on their content.
Ease of Use
One of the key aspects of Wirecast’s ease of use is the ability to customize workflows. For example, Wirecast 15 allows users to create their own keyboard shortcuts for nearly any action, which can be saved, exported, and imported across different computers. This feature significantly streamlines production workflows and makes it easier to perform repetitive tasks with a simple keystroke.
Customization and Automation
Users can define and configure fully-customizable document hotkeys to automate production workflows. This allows for quick building and pushing of composite shots live with just a keystroke, enhancing the overall efficiency of the production process.
AI-Driven Tools
Wirecast 16.1 introduces AI-powered tools that simplify content creation. The Virtual Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) feature, for instance, allows users to add professional-grade production value without needing specialized equipment. This feature dynamically tracks and follows the user’s face within the frame, adding a layer of visual interest and engagement to the content.
Social Media Integration
The interface also includes tools for integrating social media comments from platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook directly into live streams. Users can scroll through comments, select which ones to display, and dynamically update social media titling templates, all within an intuitive and easy-to-use interface.
Monitoring Tools
Wirecast has expanded its monitoring toolset with improved audio meters that use a consistent dBFS scale, ensuring consistent readings across the app. This helps users monitor their live stream’s audio quality in real-time, preventing issues like audio clipping.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience of Wirecast is centered around ease of use and flexibility. The software is designed to empower users of all experience levels to produce high-quality video content. Whether you are using a laptop webcam or a full-scale production studio, Wirecast’s tools are accessible and easy to use, allowing creators to focus on their content rather than the technical aspects of production.
Wirecast - Key Features and Functionality
Wirecast Overview
Wirecast, a leading software for live video streaming and production, incorporates several key features and AI-driven functionalities that make it a versatile and powerful tool for content creators. Here are some of the main features and how they work:
Capture and Input Features
- Unlimited Sources: Wirecast allows you to capture video and audio from multiple sources, including cameras, microphones, webcams, IP cams, and even screens from other computers or devices on your network.
- NDI Input & Output: Wirecast supports NDI (Network Device Interface) inputs and outputs, enabling you to bring in sources like Skype or PTZ cameras directly into your production and output the produced feed to other devices on the network.
- Remote Conferencing: Wirecast Rendezvous allows up to 8-way peer-to-peer remote conferencing, enabling panel interviews, talk shows, and screen sharing from any Internet-connected device.
Production Features
- Multiple User-Definable Layers: Wirecast supports live shot compositing with up to 250 layers and unlimited shots, allowing for highly complex and high-quality broadcasts.
- Graphics & Animated Titles: The software includes a built-in library of high-quality, customizable animated titles and lower thirds, which can be easily integrated into your live streams.
- Chroma Keying & Luma/Color Keying: Wirecast offers advanced keying features, including chroma keying for green screens and luma/color keying for other backgrounds, allowing you to transport your production to different locations.
AI-Driven Features
- Virtual Assistant: Introduced in Wirecast 16, this AI-powered virtual assistant provides real-time feature walkthroughs, technical advice, and troubleshooting in multiple languages. It helps users quickly resolve common issues and questions, ensuring uninterrupted production.
- Virtual PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom): This feature uses machine learning to detect and track individuals within the video frame, automatically adjusting the camera to keep the subject in focus without manual adjustments.
- AI-Based Background Removal: Similar to features in Skype and Zoom, Wirecast’s AI-based background removal allows users to replace their background with virtual ones without needing a greenscreen.
Streaming and Output Features
- Multi-Streaming: Wirecast allows you to stream to multiple destinations simultaneously, including popular platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter, through direct integrations and API-level connections.
- Stream & Record: You can stream and record your content at the same time, saving files in MP4 or MOV format for archiving or offline editing.
- ISO Recording: Wirecast Pro enables recording each individual source or shot for post-production, and multi-track audio recording allows routing audio sources to discrete tracks.
Additional Features
- Instant Replay: Wirecast Pro allows recording any source into a separate file for multi-angle instant replays.
- Social Media Integration: Wirecast includes features like social media comment moderation, Facebook polling, and live donations, enhancing audience engagement.
- Stock Media Library: Access to over 500,000 unique media assets, including videos, music, lower thirds, and backgrounds, is available with an active Wirecast subscription or Access Plan.
Performance and User Interface
- Performance Improvements: Wirecast 15 and later versions have seen significant performance and efficiency improvements, using less CPU power and improving GPU efficiency.
- Updated User Interface: The new UI design makes important features more accessible and user-friendly, with improvements such as better audio meters and new animated title templates.
These features and functionalities make Wirecast a comprehensive tool for live video streaming and production, catering to both beginners and professional content creators.
Wirecast - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Wirecast is known for its stable and responsive performance, even under demanding conditions. Here are some highlights:
- In tests with the Wirecast Gear 420, the system maintained stability and responsiveness during multiple hour-long productions, even when pushing the limits of CPU utilization. For instance, broadcasting to both Facebook and YouTube while saving all four cameras as ISO streams and the live output to a 10Mbps archive file resulted in a peak CPU utilization of around 80%, but the average remained manageable at 60%-65%.
- The latest version, Wirecast 15, has optimized efficiency, using fewer CPU and GPU resources. This version reduces CPU usage by up to 60% and GPU usage by up to 50%, allowing for smoother playback of high-resolution video sources and better support for 4K 60 fps playback and streaming.
Accuracy and Reliability
Wirecast is praised for its accuracy and reliability in live streaming:
- The software provides tools for precise control over video and audio, including resizing, positioning, cropping, color correction, and rotation. This ensures that the composite shots are accurately composed and adjusted.
- Wirecast 7 introduced features like GPU-accelerated encoding, which helps in maintaining consistent frame rates and reducing video sync issues. It also allows for delaying video and/or audio to ensure sync during live streams.
- The software includes monitoring tools such as output statistics, system CPU, and system memory displays, which help in maintaining a stable and high-quality stream. For example, it is recommended to keep CPU usage below 80% and ensure the data rate is near the target bitrate.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While Wirecast performs well, there are some potential issues and areas to consider:
- Internet connectivity is a critical factor. Slow or unreliable internet connections can cause buffering, stuttering, or dropped frames. Using a wired Ethernet connection and ensuring a stable internet speed are essential.
- Configuration issues, such as incorrect settings or insufficient hardware, can also lead to problems. Ensuring the PC or Mac meets the minimum hardware requirements is crucial.
- During high-demand tasks, such as saving multiple ISO streams and live output simultaneously, CPU utilization can peak, leading to occasional dropped frames, especially at the start of the broadcast.
Engagement and User Experience
Wirecast is designed to be user-friendly, especially with its latest updates:
- Wirecast 15 features an improved user interface with bigger, brighter fonts and clearer tally lights, making it easier for both entry-level and advanced users to access and use the tools they need.
- The software also integrates social media comment curation and overlays, allowing for dynamic interaction with viewers and easy integration of comments from platforms like Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook.
In summary, Wirecast is a reliable and efficient tool for live video streaming, offering strong performance, accuracy, and user-friendly features. However, it is important to ensure proper hardware and internet connectivity to avoid common issues.
Wirecast - Pricing and Plans
Wirecast Pricing Plans
Wirecast, a powerful live video streaming and production software, offers a clear and structured pricing plan with various tiers to cater to different user needs. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing and the features available in each plan:
Wirecast One
- Price: $187 (one-time payment)
- Features:
- 1 live video input
- Multi-channel audio and screen capture
- 4096 x 4096 maximum project and encoding resolution
- 3 Master Mixing layers
- Integrated text, titles, chroma key, and built-in transitions
- Social media integration
- Choice of 1 output destination 1 record-to-disk output
- Virtual camera and microphone output
- Free support & upgrades for a year with Basic Support.
Wirecast Studio
- Price: $337 (one-time payment)
- Features:
- Includes all features of Wirecast One
- Unlimited live video inputs
- 2 remote guests via Wirecast Rendezvous conferencing
- 5 Master Mixing layers
- Custom transitions, playlists
- Advanced audio mixer
- Integrated Stock Media Library
- NewBlue Titler Live Express animated titles and graphics
- Unlimited output destinations multiple simultaneous record-to-disks
- 1-4 slot multi-viewer output
- Free support & upgrades for a year with Standard Support.
Wirecast Pro
- Price: $524 (one-time payment)
- Features:
- Includes all features of Wirecast Studio
- 7 remote guests via Wirecast Rendezvous conferencing
- PTZ Camera Control
- Pro Audio FX
- Sports Production (instant replay, scoreboards)
- Virtual Sets and backgrounds
- Baseband SDI/HDMI output, NDI program out
- 1-17 slot multi-viewer output
- ISO Record of individual sources
- Multi-track audio recording.
Subscription Option
In addition to the one-time payment plans, Wirecast also offers a subscription model. For example, the Wirecast Studio can be obtained through an annual subscription for $349, which includes free shipping and tech support.
Free Trial
Wirecast provides a free trial version that is fully functional but with some limitations, such as restricting you to only two guests, not allowing ISO recording, and creating video output files with watermarks. This trial allows users to experiment with the software before deciding on a purchase.
Wirecast for iOS (Wirecast Go)
For users with iOS devices, there is a more affordable option called Wirecast Go. This version allows for basic streaming features, including switching between two saved shots and live streaming to YouTube, all for free or with an upgrade for $5.99 to unlock additional features like instant replay and unlimited shot switching.
Each plan is designed to meet the specific needs of different users, from basic live streaming to advanced professional video production.
Wirecast - Integration and Compatibility
Wirecast Overview
Wirecast, a powerful live video streaming and production software, offers extensive integration and compatibility with a variety of tools, platforms, and devices, making it a versatile choice for live streaming needs.
Camera and Device Compatibility
Wirecast supports a wide range of cameras and capture devices. It is compatible with most USB webcams, including those from Logitech and Microsoft, as long as they are supported by AVFoundation on Mac OS X and DirectShow on Windows.
For more advanced camera control, Wirecast Pro integrates with PTZ (Pan, Tilt, and Zoom) cameras from manufacturers like PTZOptics and Lumens, using VISCA over IP control and NDI PTZ protocol controls. This allows for remote control of these cameras directly within the Wirecast interface.
Audio Interfaces and Sources
Wirecast can capture audio from integrated sources such as the PC’s line-in jack, microphone, or microphone jack, as well as from external audio interfaces via various APIs. This flexibility ensures that users can use a wide range of audio equipment to enhance their live streams.
Network and IP Cameras
Wirecast supports web/IP/security cameras and network devices, including those from Bolin, PTZOptics, and Panasonic. IP cameras on the local network can be manually added as sources if they are not automatically recognized.
Video Conferencing Integration
One of the notable features of Wirecast 16 is its integration with Zoom, allowing users to bring in guests from Zoom meetings directly into Wirecast. This makes producing multi-presenter panel sessions with remote speakers much easier. Users can configure the shot layout to display Zoom meeting attendees as individual sources within Wirecast.
Hardware and Capture Cards
Wirecast is compatible with various capture cards that enable HDMI or SDI input from sources like camcorders and D-SLRs. Supported capture cards include models from AJA and Blackmagic, ensuring high-quality video capture and output.
Software and Platform Compatibility
Wirecast is available for both Mac and Windows users, making it a cross-platform solution for live video streaming. It supports multiple streaming platforms and does not restrict users to a single proprietary CDN (Content Delivery Network).
Additional Tools and Features
Wirecast also integrates with other tools such as the Teradek Cube through the Wirecast Source SDK and supports network video ingest over the Apple Bonjour protocol. The software includes features like overlays, motion and still titles, and the ability to record live broadcasts directly to the hard drive in various formats (MP4, Windows Media, MOV).
Control and Automation
For enhanced control, Wirecast has integrated with X-keys, providing a physical keyboard controller with up to 124 buttons. This is particularly useful for managing live video production, switching between graphics, cameras, and PTZ preset positions.
Conclusion
In summary, Wirecast’s extensive compatibility with various cameras, audio interfaces, network devices, and video conferencing tools, along with its support for multiple platforms and capture cards, makes it a highly versatile and powerful tool for live video streaming and production.
Wirecast - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Wirecast provides several support tiers to cater to different user needs:Premium Support
This annual program includes online case submission, priority response times (within 4 business hours), phone support, and the option for remote access services (RAS) where a technician can access your computer to resolve issues quickly. Users also get free software updates and upgrades, ensuring they stay current with the latest features and bug fixes.
Standard Support
For Wirecast Studio and Pro users, this includes 12 months of email support with a response time target of 8 business hours. This package also offers self-service resources such as community forum support, training resources, and knowledge base articles.
Additional Resources
Wirecast offers a variety of resources to help users get started and optimize their use of the software:Tutorials and Guides
Wirecast provides beginner tutorials that cover everything from setting up cameras to streaming content to a content delivery network (CDN). These tutorials are available on the Wirecast YouTube page and the resources section of the Wirecast Product Page.
User Manuals and Guides
Detailed user guides, such as the Wirecast One User Guide, are available for download. These guides cover system requirements, hardware accelerated encoding, and step-by-step instructions on using the software.
Community Forum
Users can engage with the Wirecast community through forums where they can ask questions, share experiences, and get support from other users and Wirecast experts.
Knowledge Base
A comprehensive knowledge base is available, featuring articles and FAQs that address common issues and provide tips on using the software effectively.
On-demand Training
Wirecast offers on-demand training resources to help users learn specific skills and features of the software.
Application Shortcuts and Document Hotkeys
Users can customize application shortcuts and document hotkeys to streamline their production workflow, making it easier to control various aspects of the software.
These resources and support options are designed to ensure that Wirecast users can quickly resolve technical issues, learn new skills, and optimize their live video streaming experiences.
Wirecast - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Wirecast
Wirecast offers several significant advantages that make it a popular choice for live video streaming:User-Friendly Interface
Wirecast is known for its intuitive and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible even for beginners. The drag-and-drop feature simplifies scene composition, allowing users to quickly set up and manage their streams.Multi-Platform Streaming
Wirecast enables simultaneous live streaming to multiple platforms, including Facebook Live, YouTube, Twitch, and more. This feature is particularly useful for those aiming to reach a broader audience.Professional Production Features
Wirecast is equipped with a range of professional-grade production tools. These include support for multiple cameras, remote guests, screenshares, transitions, chroma key, virtual sets, and live scoreboards. It also features a stock media library with over 500,000 high-quality media assets, such as graphics, videos, and music.Versatile Input Sources
Wirecast supports an unlimited number of input sources, including web cameras, professional cameras, IP cameras, mobile devices, and screen captures. It also integrates with NDI sources and allows for the use of iOS devices as live video sources.Social Media Integration
Wirecast allows for the integration of social media comments directly into the broadcast, enhancing viewer engagement. It also supports features like instant replay, ISO recording, and multi-viewer capabilities.Cross-Platform Compatibility
Wirecast is available for both Mac and Windows, providing flexibility for users across different operating systems.Stream Management
Users can stream and record to multiple destinations simultaneously and manage playlists, audio/video syncing, and multi-track audio files. The software also supports various streaming protocols like RTMP, SRT, and RTP.Disadvantages of Wirecast
While Wirecast offers many benefits, it also has some drawbacks:System Resource Requirements
To run Wirecast smoothly, especially for high-definition streaming, users need a computer with strong system resources. This can be a significant cost if the user’s current hardware is not sufficient.Learning Curve
Despite its user-friendly interface, Wirecast has a wide array of features that can be overwhelming for beginners. It requires a significant amount of time to fully learn and master all its capabilities.Pricing
Wirecast can be expensive, with the Studio version priced at $495 and the Pro version at $995. This may be a barrier for some users, especially those on a budget.Bandwidth Requirements
Streaming to multiple platforms simultaneously can significantly increase bandwidth requirements, which can be a challenge, especially in environments with limited internet connectivity. By considering these advantages and disadvantages, users can make an informed decision about whether Wirecast is the right tool for their live video streaming needs. Wirecast - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Wirecast to Other Live Streaming Software
Several key features and differences stand out.
Unique Features of Wirecast
- Unlimited Inputs: Wirecast does not limit the number of video inputs you can use, making it highly versatile for professional-level productions. This is particularly useful if you need to manage multiple cameras, control PTZ cameras, or integrate with control surfaces.
- Wirecast Go: This feature allows you to live stream from any phone, adding mobility and flexibility to your streaming setup.
- Layer-Based Compositing: Wirecast offers advanced layer-based compositing, enabling you to mix and match different video sources and graphics, similar to a mini-TV studio.
- Global Support: Wirecast provides customer support in over 12 multilingual languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
- Stock Media Assets: It offers access to over 500,000 stock media assets, which can significantly enhance the professional quality of your streams.
Potential Alternatives
vMix
- Cost-Effective: vMix is generally less expensive than Wirecast, with a free version and various pricing tiers starting at a lower cost. It also supports NDI integration and has flexible input options.
- Feature-Rich: vMix can handle multiple camera inputs, offers built-in video-conferencing, and supports up to 4K resolution. However, it is PC-specific and lacks a macOS version.
- User Interface: vMix has an easy-to-use interface for managing various inputs, but it can be challenging for new users to get accustomed to its features.
OBS Studio
- Free and Open-Source: OBS Studio is completely free and open-source, making it a highly accessible option. It offers real-time video and audio capturing, unlimited scenes with customizable transitions, and an intuitive audio mixer.
- Customization: OBS provides extensive customization options, including a powerful API for plugins and scripts. However, it can be overwhelming for new users due to its wide range of features and settings.
- Community Support: While OBS does not offer direct customer support, it has a large and active community that can provide help.
Ecamm Live
- User-Friendly Interface: Ecamm Live is known for its clean and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for beginners while also offering advanced controls for experienced users. It supports multiple cameras, screen sharing, and high-quality streaming up to 4K 60 frames per second.
- Integration and Features: Ecamm Live integrates comments from multiple platforms, supports isolated video and audio track recording, and can act as a webcam for platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. However, it lacks a mobile app and some advanced features available in more expensive software.
Restream Studio
- Cloud-Based: Restream Studio is a cloud-based platform that is easy to use and offers multi-platform live streaming. It supports live streaming on over 30 platforms, integrates chats from different platforms, and provides detailed analytics. However, it has limitations such as no support for 2K and 4K video streaming and restrictions on stored pre-recorded videos.
Each of these alternatives offers unique advantages and may better suit specific needs or preferences. For example, if cost is a significant factor, vMix or OBS Studio might be more appealing. If you need a user-friendly interface with advanced features, Ecamm Live could be the best choice. For cloud-based simplicity and multi-platform streaming, Restream Studio is worth considering.
Wirecast - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Wirecast
How much does Wirecast cost?
Wirecast offers several pricing plans to fit different needs and budgets. The plans include:- Wirecast One: $187 (one-time payment) – includes 1 live video input, multi-channel audio, screen capture, and basic features.
- Wirecast Studio: $337 (one-time payment) – adds unlimited live video inputs, remote guests via Wirecast Rendezvous, advanced audio mixer, and more.
- Wirecast Pro: $524 (one-time payment) – includes all features of Wirecast Studio plus PTZ camera control, sports production tools, virtual sets, and more.
What are the key features of each Wirecast plan?
- Wirecast One: Includes 1 live video input, multi-channel audio, screen capture, 3 Master Mixing layers, integrated text and titles, chroma key, built-in transitions, social media integration, and one output destination plus one record-to-disk output.
- Wirecast Studio: Adds unlimited live video inputs, 2 remote guests via Wirecast Rendezvous, 5 Master Mixing layers, custom transitions, playlists, advanced audio mixer, integrated Stock Media Library, and unlimited output destinations.
- Wirecast Pro: Includes all features of Wirecast Studio plus 7 remote guests via Wirecast Rendezvous, PTZ camera control, Pro Audio FX, sports production tools, virtual sets, baseband SDI/HDMI output, and multi-track audio recording.
What type of customer support does Wirecast offer?
Wirecast provides different levels of support depending on the plan you choose. For example, the Wirecast One plan comes with Basic Support, which includes free support and upgrades for a year. The Wirecast Studio and Wirecast Pro plans come with Standard Support, which also includes free support and upgrades for a year but may offer additional support features.Where is the headquarters of the company that develops Wirecast?
The headquarters of Telestream, LLC, the company that develops Wirecast, is located in Nevada.What types of businesses does Wirecast serve?
Wirecast serves a wide range of businesses, including startups, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), and agencies. It is versatile enough to be used by various types of organizations for their live streaming and video production needs.How do I get started with using Wirecast?
To get started with Wirecast, you can begin by working through the tutorials provided. There are three main tutorials: Basic Concepts, Editing Shots, and Broadcasting. These tutorials take about thirty minutes to complete and help you understand how to set up and use Wirecast effectively. Additionally, you can use the built-in tutorial environment and read the “Making Great Broadcasts” section for more tips.What are the system requirements for Wirecast?
While the specific system requirements are not detailed here, it is recommended to check the official Wirecast specifications and system requirements page to ensure your hardware and software meet the necessary criteria for running the application smoothly.Does Wirecast offer any AI-powered production tools?
Yes, Wirecast has introduced AI-powered production tools in its recent updates. For example, Wirecast 16.1 includes AI-powered Virtual Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) that allows you to add professional-grade production value without needing specialized equipment. This feature dynamically tracks and follows your face within the frame, enhancing the visual interest and engagement of your content.Can I use Wirecast on both Windows and Mac?
Yes, Wirecast is a cross-platform application, meaning it can be used on both Windows and Mac operating systems.Are there any annual subscription options for Wirecast?
Yes, besides the one-time payment plans, Wirecast also offers annual subscription options. For example, you can get an annual subscription for Wirecast Studio for $349 or for Wirecast Pro for $449. These subscriptions include free shipping and tech support.Is there a free trial available for Wirecast?
Yes, Wirecast offers a free trial. During the trial, you can run all the tutorials without a license, although a watermark will appear on the video and an occasional voice-over on the audio until a valid license is activated.