# Multi-encoding and channel as a source

*Applies to: Pearl-2, Pearl Mini, Pearl Nexus*

The device lets you easily do multi-encoding so you can record and stream the same content at different encoding settings. This is useful when you want to:
- Record a video at a high bitrate and frame size and live stream the same content at lower encoding settings.
- Record the channel while also sending two (or more) streams of that channel using different encoding settings for CDNs that don't use adaptive bitrates.
- Or record the same channel simultaneously at different resolutions.

For example, take a scenario where you want to record a video at 1080p and 8 Mbps, while simultaneously live streaming the same video online at 720p and 1 Mbps. You can create your custom layouts and do all your switching in one channel (i.e. Channel 1) and then configure Channel 2 to use Channel 1 as a source. That way, both channels have the identical program. All you need to do now is configure each channel for the encoding settings you want.

Follow these steps:
- Log in to the Admin panel as **admin**.
- Create Channel 1 with your video and audio inputs. Add all your live switching layouts.
- Set the **encoding** and **streaming** settings for channel 1.
- Create Channel 2 for your recording with just one layout and add Channel 1 as the video source. Stretch it to fill the full screen.
- For Channel 2's **audio source**, choose Channel 1 if not already selected by default.
- Set **encoding** and **streaming** settings for channel 2.

Using this process, you can record on Channel 2 and stream it at a different bitrate and frame size than what's recorded.

**Device differences**
- **Pearl-2:** Because Pearl-2 supports 4K capture, its example pairing for "record the same channel simultaneously at different resolutions" is 4K and full HD.
- **Pearl Mini, Pearl Nexus:** These devices are not 4K-capable; their example pairing is full HD and HD.

> product: pearl-family · topic: audio · source: pearl-family-common.md · updated: Oct 13, 2026