The Infamous Stringdusters

Background

Drew Becker is the front-of-house (FOH) engineer and production manager for Grammy Award-winning bluegrass band, The Infamous Stringdusters. Since joining the band in 2008, Becker has managed live sound, multi-track recording, and since 2014 — live streaming using Mixlr.

What started as an experiment has become a core part of their touring workflow. Over the past decade, Mixlr has enabled the Stringdusters to connect with fans across the country through professional-grade, real-time audio streaming.

The Challenge

Before adopting Mixlr in 2014, the Stringdusters focused primarily on archiving shows for digital download via platforms like nugs.net. Live streaming wasn't a priority, largely because existing solutions were overly complex or poor in audio quality.

The band recognized that fans unable to attend shows in person had no consistent or high-quality way to experience their performances live. This gap limited the band's ability to build and maintain a wider audience — especially during periods when touring slowed or fans couldn't travel.

The Solution

In 2014, Becker and the Stringdusters introduced Mixlr into their live production setup, allowing fans to experience the band's shows in real-time from anywhere.

Seamless Implementation & Key Features

Implementation was smooth, integrating easily into the band's existing production setup and elevating the fan experience without adding complexity.

🎛 Professional Setup, Simplified:

• Mixer & Console: Digital FOH console configured as a 32-channel I/O device.
• Routing: Four channels (two stereo feeds + two audience mics) routed directly to Mixlr for an immersive sound.
• Device: Laptop running the Mixlr desktop app.
• Connection: Single USB cable from the console to the laptop enables simultaneous multi-track recording and audio streaming.
• Video (optional): Separate OBS and PTZ Optics camera setup for occasional video streams.

The Infamous Stringdusters leverage several of Mixlr's key features:

• 🔊 Superior Live Audio Quality:

  Fans consistently praise the clarity, depth, and live energy captured through the Mixlr stream—making every performance feel like a front-row experience.

• 💬 Real-Time Community Engagement:

  Listeners connect via Mixlr's integrated chat feature, turning live streams into shared, interactive events.

• 🎨 Custom-Branded Channel:

  Each show's stream is visually branded with unique images and artwork—reinforcing the band's identity and providing a polished experience for fans.

• ⚙️ Simplicity & Reliability:

  Mixlr's desktop app is designed like a digital audio workstation. Becker describes the setup as “easy and reliable,” even in high-pressure, live production environments.

Game-Changing Impact

Since adopting Mixlr, The Infamous Stringdusters have:

• Expanded Their Audience: Live streams typically add a 20% uplift to in-person attendance—fans who can't be there physically now join the experience online.
• Fostered a National Community: Fans tune in from across the world, engaging with each other through chat and often meeting in person at future shows.
• Streamlined Operations: Live streaming is now fully integrated into Becker's FOH workflow—without requiring dedicated streaming staff.
• Maintained Consistent Quality: Whether performing at intimate venues or major festivals, the band delivers reliable, professional audio streams to fans.

Conclusion: Why Mixlr?

For The Infamous Stringdusters, Mixlr transformed live streaming from an afterthought into a vital part of their touring experience. The platform allows them to:

• Reach more fans - wherever they are
• Build stronger connections through live, shared experiences
• Keep their audio streaming simple and professional, no matter the show size