Open Broadcasting Software (OBS) is a popular, free, and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. While it’s primarily used for video content creation, OBS also offers robust audio recording capabilities. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of audio recording on OBS, exploring the various settings, techniques, and best practices to help you achieve high-quality audio recordings.
Setting Up OBS for Audio Recording
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of audio recording, let’s cover the basics of setting up OBS for audio-only recording. To do this, follow these steps:
Step 1: Download and Install OBS
If you haven’t already, download and install OBS from the official website. OBS is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Step 2: Configure OBS Settings
Launch OBS and navigate to the Settings panel by clicking on the “Settings” button in the bottom-right corner of the screen. In the Settings panel, select the “Output” tab and set the “Output Mode” to “Advanced.” This will allow us to customize the output settings for audio recording.
Step 3: Select the Audio Input Device
In the “Mixer” panel, select the audio input device you want to use for recording. This could be a built-in microphone, a USB microphone, or an external audio interface. Make sure the device is properly connected and configured.
Recording Audio on OBS
Now that we’ve set up OBS for audio recording, let’s explore the various ways to record audio on the platform.
Method 1: Recording Audio from a Single Source
To record audio from a single source, such as a microphone or an instrument, follow these steps:
- Select the audio input device in the “Mixer” panel.
- Set the “Gain” level to an optimal value. A good starting point is around 50%.
- Click on the “Start Recording” button to begin recording.
- To stop recording, click on the “Stop Recording” button.
Method 2: Recording Audio from Multiple Sources
To record audio from multiple sources, such as a microphone and an instrument, follow these steps:
- Select the first audio input device in the “Mixer” panel.
- Set the “Gain” level to an optimal value.
- Click on the “+” button to add a new audio source.
- Select the second audio input device and set the “Gain” level to an optimal value.
- Click on the “Start Recording” button to begin recording.
- To stop recording, click on the “Stop Recording” button.
Audio Settings and Configurations
OBS offers a range of audio settings and configurations to help you achieve high-quality audio recordings. Here are some key settings to explore:
Sample Rate and Bit Depth
The sample rate and bit depth determine the quality of your audio recordings. A higher sample rate and bit depth result in higher quality audio. OBS supports sample rates up to 192 kHz and bit depths up to 32 bits.
Audio Codec
OBS supports a range of audio codecs, including AAC, AC-3, and MP3. The choice of codec depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Audio Filters
OBS offers a range of audio filters, including noise reduction, echo cancellation, and gain control. These filters can help improve the quality of your audio recordings.
Best Practices for Recording Audio on OBS
To achieve high-quality audio recordings on OBS, follow these best practices:
Use a High-Quality Microphone
A good microphone is essential for high-quality audio recordings. Consider investing in a high-quality USB microphone or an external audio interface.
Optimize Your Recording Environment
The recording environment can greatly impact the quality of your audio recordings. Optimize your recording space by reducing background noise, using acoustic treatment, and positioning your microphone correctly.
Monitor Your Audio Levels
Monitoring your audio levels is crucial to avoid distortion and clipping. Use the “Mixer” panel to monitor your audio levels and adjust the “Gain” level as needed.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and troubleshooting tips for recording audio on OBS:
Issue 1: Low Audio Levels
If your audio levels are too low, try increasing the “Gain” level or using a different microphone.
Issue 2: Distortion and Clipping
If your audio is distorted or clipping, try reducing the “Gain” level or using a different microphone.
Issue 3: Background Noise
If you’re experiencing background noise, try using noise reduction filters or optimizing your recording environment.
Conclusion
Recording audio on OBS is a straightforward process that requires some basic setup and configuration. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve high-quality audio recordings using OBS. Remember to optimize your recording environment, monitor your audio levels, and use high-quality audio equipment to get the best results.
What are the system requirements for recording audio on OBS?
To record audio on OBS, you’ll need a computer with a relatively modern operating system, such as Windows 10 or macOS High Sierra (or later). Your computer should also have a multi-core processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card. Additionally, you’ll need a stable internet connection and a compatible audio interface or sound card.
In terms of specific hardware, OBS supports a wide range of audio devices, including USB microphones, analog mixers, and digital audio workstations. If you’re using a USB microphone, make sure it’s plugged in and recognized by your computer before launching OBS. If you’re using an analog mixer or other external audio device, you may need to configure the settings in your computer’s audio control panel before recording.
How do I set up my audio settings in OBS?
To set up your audio settings in OBS, start by clicking on the “Settings” button in the lower right corner of the main OBS window. In the Settings window, click on the “Audio” tab and select your audio device from the dropdown menu. If you’re using a USB microphone, it should be listed as a separate device. If you’re using an analog mixer or other external audio device, you may need to select the correct input or output.
Once you’ve selected your audio device, you can adjust the gain levels and other settings to optimize your audio quality. You can also configure the audio monitoring settings to hear your audio in real-time. If you’re experiencing any issues with your audio, such as distortion or echo, you can try adjusting the settings or using a different audio device.
What are the different types of audio inputs in OBS?
OBS supports a variety of audio inputs, including microphone, auxiliary, and virtual audio devices. The microphone input is used for capturing audio from a physical microphone, such as a USB microphone or a lavalier microphone. The auxiliary input is used for capturing audio from an external device, such as a mixer or a musical instrument. Virtual audio devices, on the other hand, allow you to capture audio from software applications or online streams.
When selecting an audio input in OBS, make sure to choose the correct device and input type. For example, if you’re using a USB microphone, you should select the microphone input and choose the correct device from the dropdown menu. If you’re using an external mixer or instrument, you should select the auxiliary input and configure the settings accordingly.
How do I record audio from multiple sources in OBS?
To record audio from multiple sources in OBS, you can use the “Audio Mixer” feature. This allows you to add multiple audio inputs to a single scene and mix them together in real-time. To access the Audio Mixer, click on the “Mixer” button in the lower left corner of the main OBS window. From here, you can add new audio inputs, adjust the gain levels, and configure the mixing settings.
When recording audio from multiple sources, it’s a good idea to use a separate audio track for each source. This allows you to adjust the levels and settings for each track independently and ensures that your audio is well-balanced and clear. You can also use the “Audio Filters” feature to add effects or processing to individual audio tracks.
How do I troubleshoot common audio issues in OBS?
If you’re experiencing issues with your audio in OBS, such as distortion, echo, or low volume, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, check that your audio device is properly connected and configured. Make sure that the gain levels are set correctly and that the audio input is not muted. You can also try adjusting the audio settings in the OBS Settings window or using a different audio device.
If you’re still experiencing issues, try restarting OBS or your computer. You can also try updating your audio drivers or using a different version of OBS. If none of these steps resolve the issue, you may want to seek further assistance from the OBS community or a professional audio engineer.
Can I use OBS to record audio for music or podcasting?
Yes, OBS can be used to record audio for music or podcasting. In fact, many musicians and podcasters use OBS as their primary recording software. OBS offers a range of features that make it well-suited for music and podcasting, including support for multiple audio inputs, audio filters, and effects.
When using OBS to record audio for music or podcasting, it’s a good idea to use a high-quality audio interface or sound card. You should also invest in a good pair of monitor speakers or headphones to ensure that your audio sounds clear and balanced. Additionally, you may want to consider using a pop filter or other acoustic treatment to reduce noise and improve the overall sound quality.
How do I export and edit my recorded audio in OBS?
Once you’ve recorded your audio in OBS, you can export it as a separate file or edit it directly in the software. To export your audio, click on the “File” menu and select “Export”. From here, you can choose the file format, quality, and other settings. OBS supports a range of file formats, including WAV, MP3, and AAC.
If you want to edit your recorded audio, you can use the “Audio Editor” feature in OBS. This allows you to trim, cut, and arrange your audio clips, as well as add effects and processing. You can also export your edited audio as a separate file or use it in a video project. Alternatively, you can import your recorded audio into a third-party audio editing software, such as Audacity or Adobe Audition, for further editing and processing.