Open Broadcasting Software (OBS) has become the go-to platform for live streaming and recording video content. While its video recording capabilities are well-known, OBS also offers robust audio recording features that can help you capture high-quality sound. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of audio recording in OBS, exploring the best practices, settings, and techniques to help you achieve professional-grade audio.
Understanding OBS Audio Settings
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of audio recording, it’s essential to understand the basics of OBS audio settings. OBS allows you to customize your audio settings to suit your specific needs. Here are the key audio settings you should be familiar with:
Audio Input Devices
OBS allows you to select from a variety of audio input devices, including:
- Microphone: This is the most common audio input device used for recording voiceovers, commentary, and live streams.
- Line In: This input is used for connecting external audio devices, such as mixers or instruments.
- Auxiliary: This input is used for connecting additional audio devices, such as a second microphone or a soundboard.
To select your audio input device, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select your desired audio input device from the Device dropdown menu.
Audio Output Devices
OBS also allows you to customize your audio output devices. This is useful if you want to monitor your audio in real-time or output your audio to a separate device. To select your audio output device, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select your desired audio output device from the Playback Device dropdown menu.
Audio Filters
OBS offers a range of audio filters that can help you enhance and refine your audio. Some of the most commonly used audio filters include:
- Gain: This filter allows you to adjust the volume of your audio input.
- Noise Suppression: This filter helps to reduce background noise and hiss.
- Noise Gate: This filter helps to eliminate loud noises and pops.
To apply an audio filter, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select the Filters tab.
- Click the + button to add a new filter.
- Select your desired filter from the dropdown menu.
Recording Audio in OBS
Now that we’ve covered the basics of OBS audio settings, let’s dive into the process of recording audio. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to record audio in OBS:
Setting Up Your Audio Input
Before you start recording, make sure your audio input is set up correctly. Follow these steps:
- Connect your audio input device (e.g., microphone) to your computer.
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select your desired audio input device from the Device dropdown menu.
Configuring Your Audio Settings
Once your audio input is set up, you’ll need to configure your audio settings. Follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Adjust your audio settings as desired (e.g., gain, noise suppression, noise gate).
Starting Your Recording
Now that your audio settings are configured, you’re ready to start recording. Follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Controls panel.
- Click the Start Recording button.
- OBS will begin recording your audio.
Advanced Audio Recording Techniques
While the basics of audio recording in OBS are straightforward, there are several advanced techniques you can use to enhance your audio quality. Here are a few tips and tricks to get you started:
Using Multiple Audio Inputs
OBS allows you to use multiple audio inputs simultaneously. This is useful if you want to record multiple audio sources at once (e.g., a microphone and a line-in device). To use multiple audio inputs, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select the Advanced tab.
- Click the + button to add a new audio input.
- Select your desired audio input device from the dropdown menu.
Using Audio Monitoring
Audio monitoring allows you to listen to your audio in real-time, making it easier to adjust your audio settings and catch any mistakes. To use audio monitoring, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select the Advanced tab.
- Check the Monitor Audio box.
Using Audio Routing
Audio routing allows you to route your audio to specific devices or applications. This is useful if you want to output your audio to a separate device or use a third-party audio processing software. To use audio routing, follow these steps:
- Open OBS and navigate to the Settings panel.
- Click on the Audio tab.
- Select the Advanced tab.
- Click the + button to add a new audio route.
- Select your desired audio route from the dropdown menu.
Troubleshooting Common Audio Issues
Despite your best efforts, you may still encounter audio issues while recording in OBS. Here are some common audio issues and their solutions:
Audio Delay or Sync Issues
If you’re experiencing audio delay or sync issues, try the following:
- Check your audio settings to ensure that your audio input and output devices are correctly configured.
- Adjust your audio buffer size to reduce latency.
- Use the Audio Sync feature to synchronize your audio with your video.
Audio Distortion or Clipping
If you’re experiencing audio distortion or clipping, try the following:
- Adjust your gain settings to reduce the volume of your audio input.
- Use the Noise Suppression filter to reduce background noise.
- Use the Noise Gate filter to eliminate loud noises and pops.
Conclusion
Recording audio in OBS can seem daunting at first, but with the right techniques and settings, you can achieve professional-grade audio. By understanding the basics of OBS audio settings, configuring your audio settings correctly, and using advanced techniques like multiple audio inputs and audio monitoring, you can take your audio recording to the next level. Remember to troubleshoot common audio issues and experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Happy recording!
What is OBS and why is it used for audio recording?
OBS, or Open Broadcasting Software, is a free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. It is widely used for audio recording due to its flexibility, customizability, and high-quality output. OBS allows users to capture and mix audio from multiple sources, making it an ideal choice for podcasters, YouTubers, and live streamers.
OBS is also highly compatible with various audio interfaces and devices, making it easy to integrate with existing recording setups. Additionally, OBS has a user-friendly interface and a vast online community, providing extensive resources and support for users to master audio recording.
What are the system requirements for running OBS smoothly?
To run OBS smoothly, your computer should meet certain system requirements. For Windows users, OBS requires at least Windows 8 (64-bit), while macOS users need at least macOS 10.13 (High Sierra). Additionally, your computer should have a multi-core processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card.
It’s also essential to ensure that your computer’s audio drivers are up-to-date, as outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues with OBS. Furthermore, having a fast storage drive, such as an SSD, can significantly improve OBS’s performance, especially when dealing with high-quality audio files.
How do I set up my audio equipment with OBS?
To set up your audio equipment with OBS, start by connecting your audio interface or device to your computer. Then, open OBS and navigate to the “Settings” panel, where you can select your audio device from the “Audio” tab. Make sure to choose the correct device and set the sample rate and bit depth according to your equipment’s specifications.
Once you’ve selected your audio device, you can configure the audio settings further by adjusting the gain levels, enabling or disabling noise reduction, and setting up audio monitoring. It’s also a good idea to test your audio equipment with OBS to ensure that it’s working correctly and make any necessary adjustments.
What are the best audio settings for recording in OBS?
The best audio settings for recording in OBS depend on your specific needs and equipment. However, here are some general guidelines: set the sample rate to 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, and the bit depth to 16-bit or 24-bit. You should also adjust the gain levels to optimize your audio signal, aiming for an average level of around -20 dB.
Additionally, consider enabling noise reduction and compression to improve the overall quality of your audio. However, be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive processing can negatively impact your audio. It’s also essential to monitor your audio levels and adjust the settings accordingly to avoid distortion or clipping.
How do I reduce background noise and hum in OBS?
To reduce background noise and hum in OBS, start by using a high-quality audio interface and a noise-reducing microphone. You can also use noise-reducing software, such as noise gates or noise suppressors, to minimize background noise. Additionally, consider using acoustic treatment in your recording space to reduce echo and reverberation.
In OBS, you can also enable noise reduction and compression to further minimize background noise. However, be careful not to overdo it, as excessive processing can negatively impact your audio. It’s also essential to adjust the noise reduction settings according to your specific needs and environment.
Can I record multiple audio tracks in OBS?
Yes, OBS allows you to record multiple audio tracks simultaneously. To do this, navigate to the “Settings” panel and select the “Audio” tab. Then, click on the “Advanced” button and enable the “Multi-track recording” option. This will allow you to record each audio source as a separate track, giving you more flexibility during post-production.
When recording multiple audio tracks, make sure to adjust the gain levels and audio settings for each track accordingly. You can also use OBS’s built-in audio mixer to adjust the levels and panning of each track in real-time. This feature is particularly useful for podcasters and live streamers who need to record multiple audio sources simultaneously.
How do I export and edit my recorded audio in OBS?
To export your recorded audio in OBS, navigate to the “File” menu and select “Export.” Then, choose the desired file format, such as WAV or MP3, and select the audio tracks you want to export. You can also choose to export the audio as a single file or as separate tracks.
Once you’ve exported your audio, you can edit it using your preferred audio editing software, such as Audacity or Adobe Audition. OBS also allows you to edit your audio directly within the software, using its built-in audio editing tools. However, for more advanced editing tasks, it’s recommended to use a dedicated audio editing software.