Supported cameras & video inputs for the IRL Backpack and LiveU Solo

Both the IRL Backpack and LiveU Solo support video input from nearly any device that supports HDMI output. This includes full-size mirrorless/DSLR cameras, laptops, video switchers (like an ATEM), and more!

Streamers can take advantage of this functionality to change the style, ramp up the quality or introduce PC based streams.

The Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam is the “recommended” personal camera and is sold directly by UnlimitedIRL, with the IRL Backpack v7 - it's perfect for a good general use IRL streaming camera, especially if you're looking to have a first-person view stream and a quality feed while maintaining a light-weight single person setup.

However, if you're willing to carry around a heavier setup or have a camera operator to assist - you can opt for cameras with larger sensors to really impress your audience. It's important to remember that alternative cameras often have different power requirements and sometimes have different size HDMI connectors, or no HDMI connector at all, so additional hardware and/or cables may be required. The IRL Backpack's cable loom is wired for any camera or input that has a micro HDMI port - if your camera has that size HDMI port - you can use the same HDMI cable. The IRL Backpack's cable loom also provides micro USB power, which keeps the included Sony FDR-X3000 powered from the backpacks' battery pack. Some larger cameras may require you to swap battery packs on the camera or connect to a VMount or NPF camera mounted battery.

If you wish to order your IRL Backpack without the Sony FDR-X3000 (in order to use an alternative camera), please contact us or send us a DM on X. For additional assistance or to optimize your streaming setup, contact our support team or join the UnlimitedIRL Discord Server. We're here to help you achieve the highest quality live streams possible.

If you have an existing camera or are interested in other cameras, we recommend using Elgato's Camera Checker for confirming compatibility as the requirements are the same for use with an IRL Backpack: https://elgato.com/us/en/s/cam-link-camera-check

Popular Camera Options for the IRL Backpack / LiveU Solo PRO

• Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam - The X3000 is the #1 lightweight IRL streaming camera for almost 7 years, and is the camera “included” in the IRL Backpack. It offers a wide-angle lens and incredible stabilization, as well as a decent built-in mic for this form-factor. As an action cam, it's lightweight and can be easily mounted in various positions for different activities. When combined with the CamSaver add on, you can easily add a wireless mic with the built in receiver mount.

• DJI Action Cameras - As the Sony Action cam has been discontinued, many streamers are looking to switch to DJI consumer cameras. While no DJI Action Cameras have HDMI ports, there are still ways to use them with your IRL streaming setup

• Sony ZV-1 II - For broadcasting a more classic “vlog” style of video. Features a flip-out screen to monitor the angle/settings. The wide-angle / zoom lens also allows you to get closer to the action.

• Sony A6400 - The “next-step-up” features interchangeable lenses for greater versatility and upgradability. For example, when paired with a lower f-stop lens, you can achieve fantastic low-light performance.

• Sony FX3/FX30 Cinema Camera - A personal favorite of UnlimitedIRL, as used in several of our produced streams for brands, these “Netflix-approved” cameras offers exceptional quality and a professional feature set. This does, of course, mean that it comes with a professional price tag, and weight, too. We recommend these cameras for creators who hire camera operators. Please contact UnlimitedIRL Support for recommended camera cages, battery add ons and/or wireless transmission kits for your IRL stream.

This video compilation showcases stream footage using a Sony a6400 with the IRL Backpack in different lightings and environments:

Another interesting use case is switching between different cameras while live. This next video example is a stream UnlimitedIRL produced for a brand - featuring 3 IRL Backpacks streaming unique video feeds simultaneously and mixed thru IRLToolkit - 1 Sony Action camera mounted on the dashboard of the vehicle, 1 high-end camera (FX3) on a gimbal manned by an operator, and another Sony Action Cam shoulder mounted on the IRL Backpack for first-person view footage. You can skip through the video here to see the different cameras and angles used:

There's a lot of potential for using different video inputs with the IRL Backpack and you can upgrade your setup over time so you have different options available to you and be ready for any kind of stream activity!

Please feel free to reach out to support@unlimitedirl.com , @UnlimitedIRL on X, or join The IRL Discord for further assistance with your IRL Backpack.