Open Broadcasting Software (OBS) has become the go-to platform for content creators, gamers, and professionals looking to record and stream high-quality video and audio content. One of the most essential features of OBS is its ability to record screen audio, allowing users to capture and share their on-screen activities with ease. In this article, we will delve into the world of OBS and provide a comprehensive guide on how to record screen audio like a pro.
Understanding OBS and Its Audio Settings
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of recording screen audio, it’s essential to understand the basics of OBS and its audio settings. OBS is a free and open-source software that allows users to record and stream video and audio content from various sources, including their screen, webcam, and microphone.
When it comes to audio settings, OBS offers a range of options to customize and optimize your audio output. The software allows you to select from various audio devices, adjust audio levels, and apply filters to enhance your audio quality.
Audio Devices and Settings
To record screen audio, you’ll need to select the correct audio device and adjust the settings accordingly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Open OBS and navigate to the “Settings” panel.
- Click on the “Audio” tab and select the audio device you want to use from the dropdown menu.
- If you’re using a separate audio interface or external microphone, select the corresponding device from the list.
- Adjust the audio levels by moving the slider to the desired position.
Audio Filters and Effects
OBS also offers a range of audio filters and effects to enhance your audio quality. You can apply filters to reduce background noise, adjust the gain, and add effects like reverb and echo.
To apply audio filters and effects, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the “Filters” panel in the “Audio” settings.
- Click on the “+” button to add a new filter.
- Select the filter type from the dropdown menu, such as “Noise Reduction” or “Gain.”
- Adjust the filter settings to your liking.
Recording Screen Audio with OBS
Now that you’ve set up your audio devices and adjusted the settings, it’s time to start recording screen audio. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Create a New Scene
To record screen audio, you’ll need to create a new scene in OBS. A scene is a collection of sources, such as your screen, webcam, and microphone, that are combined to create a single output.
To create a new scene, follow these steps:
- Click on the “+” button in the “Scenes” panel.
- Select “Screen Capture” as the source type.
- Choose the screen you want to capture, such as your primary or secondary monitor.
Step 2: Add an Audio Source
Once you’ve created a new scene, you’ll need to add an audio source to capture the screen audio. To do this, follow these steps:
- Click on the “+” button in the “Sources” panel.
- Select “Audio Input Capture” as the source type.
- Choose the audio device you want to use, such as your computer’s built-in speakers or an external audio interface.
Step 3: Start Recording
Now that you’ve set up your scene and added an audio source, it’s time to start recording. To do this, follow these steps:
- Click on the “Start Recording” button in the main OBS window.
- Choose the recording format, such as MP4 or FLV.
- Select the recording quality, such as 1080p or 4K.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While recording screen audio with OBS is relatively straightforward, you may encounter some common issues along the way. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve these issues:
No Audio Output
If you’re not getting any audio output, check the following:
- Make sure the audio device is selected correctly in the OBS settings.
- Adjust the audio levels to ensure they’re not too low.
- Check that the audio source is added to the scene and enabled.
Audio Delay or Sync Issues
If you’re experiencing audio delay or sync issues, try the following:
- Adjust the audio delay settings in the OBS settings.
- Check that the audio source is synced with the video source.
- Try using a different audio device or interface.
Conclusion
Recording screen audio with OBS is a straightforward process that requires some basic setup and configuration. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to capture high-quality screen audio and share it with your audience. Remember to troubleshoot common issues and experiment with different audio settings to optimize your output. With practice and patience, you’ll become a master of recording screen audio with OBS.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you get the most out of OBS:
- Use a high-quality audio interface or external microphone to improve your audio quality.
- Experiment with different audio filters and effects to enhance your audio output.
- Use the OBS preview feature to test your audio settings before recording.
- Record in a quiet environment to minimize background noise and distractions.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to take your screen recording to the next level and create high-quality content that engages and inspires your audience.
What is OBS and why is it used for screen recording?
OBS, or Open Broadcasting Software, is a free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. It is widely used for screen recording due to its ability to capture high-quality video and audio from various sources, including the screen, webcam, and microphone. OBS is also highly customizable, allowing users to personalize their recording settings and layouts.
One of the main reasons OBS is popular for screen recording is its ability to handle multiple audio sources simultaneously. This means users can record their screen audio, microphone audio, and other external audio sources all at the same time, making it ideal for creating tutorials, presentations, and other types of video content.
What are the system requirements for running OBS?
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). In terms of hardware, OBS requires a multi-core processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card.
Additionally, OBS also requires a compatible audio interface or sound card to capture high-quality audio. It’s also recommended to have a fast storage drive, such as an SSD, to ensure smooth video recording and playback. Meeting these system requirements will ensure that OBS runs smoothly and efficiently on your computer.
How do I set up OBS for screen recording?
To set up OBS for screen recording, start by downloading and installing the software from the official OBS website. Once installed, launch OBS and select the “Settings” option from the menu. In the settings window, select the “Video” tab and choose your desired video settings, such as resolution, frame rate, and bitrate.
Next, select the “Audio” tab and choose your desired audio settings, such as sample rate and bitrate. You can also select your audio sources, such as your microphone and screen audio. Finally, select the “Output” tab and choose your desired output settings, such as file format and location. Once you’ve set up your settings, you’re ready to start recording your screen.
How do I record screen audio in OBS?
To record screen audio in OBS, start by selecting the “Settings” option from the menu and navigating to the “Audio” tab. In the audio settings window, select the “Desktop Audio” option as your audio source. This will allow OBS to capture the audio from your screen, including any sounds or music playing from your computer.
Once you’ve selected your audio source, click the “Start Recording” button to begin recording your screen audio. OBS will capture the audio from your screen and save it to your desired output location. You can also use the “Push-to-Talk” feature to record your microphone audio only when you’re speaking, which can help reduce background noise and improve audio quality.
Can I record multiple audio sources in OBS?
Yes, OBS allows you to record multiple audio sources simultaneously. This means you can record your screen audio, microphone audio, and other external audio sources all at the same time. To do this, simply select the “Settings” option from the menu and navigate to the “Audio” tab.
In the audio settings window, select the “Mic/Aux” option as your audio source, and then select the “Desktop Audio” option as an additional audio source. You can also add other external audio sources, such as a USB microphone or a musical instrument. OBS will capture all of these audio sources simultaneously and save them to your desired output location.
How do I edit my recorded screen audio in OBS?
OBS allows you to edit your recorded screen audio using the built-in audio mixer. To access the audio mixer, click the “Mixer” button in the main OBS window. In the audio mixer window, you can adjust the levels of your different audio sources, such as your microphone and screen audio.
You can also use the audio mixer to add filters and effects to your audio, such as noise reduction or echo cancellation. Additionally, OBS allows you to export your recorded audio as a separate file, which can be edited using external audio editing software. This gives you more flexibility and control over your audio editing process.
What are some common issues with recording screen audio in OBS?
One common issue with recording screen audio in OBS is audio delay or sync issues. This can occur when the audio from your screen is not properly synced with the video. To fix this issue, try adjusting the audio settings in OBS, such as the sample rate or bitrate.
Another common issue is audio distortion or noise. This can occur when the audio levels are too high or too low. To fix this issue, try adjusting the audio levels in the OBS audio mixer, or use noise reduction filters to improve audio quality. Additionally, make sure your computer meets the system requirements for running OBS, as this can also affect audio quality.