Are you looking to record high-quality desktop audio using OBS (Open Broadcasting Software)? Whether you’re a gamer, podcaster, or video creator, capturing crisp and clear desktop audio is essential for producing professional-grade content. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to record only desktop audio with OBS, covering the basics, advanced settings, and troubleshooting tips.
Setting Up OBS for Desktop Audio Recording
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of recording desktop audio, make sure you have OBS installed on your computer. If you haven’t already, download the latest version of OBS from the official website. Once installed, launch OBS and follow these steps:
Configuring OBS Settings
- Go to Settings by clicking on the gear icon in the bottom right corner of the OBS window.
- In the Settings window, navigate to the Audio tab.
- Under Global Audio Settings, select your desired audio format, sample rate, and bitrate. For most use cases, the default settings will suffice.
- Click Apply and then OK to save your changes.
Adding a Desktop Audio Source
- In the Sources panel, click the + button to add a new source.
- Select Audio Output Capture from the list of available sources.
- Choose your desktop audio device from the Device dropdown menu. This is usually labeled as “Stereo Mix” or “Desktop Audio.”
- Give your audio source a name, such as “Desktop Audio,” and click OK.
Recording Desktop Audio with OBS
Now that you’ve set up OBS and added a desktop audio source, it’s time to start recording. Follow these steps:
Starting a Recording Session
- In the Controls panel, click the Start Recording button.
- OBS will begin recording your desktop audio. You can verify this by checking the Audio Mixer panel, where you should see your desktop audio source listed.
- To stop the recording, click the Stop Recording button.
Recording Settings and Options
OBS offers various recording settings and options to customize your desktop audio recording experience. Here are a few key settings to consider:
- Recording Format: Choose from a range of file formats, including MP4, FLV, and MKV.
- Recording Path: Specify the directory where your recorded files will be saved.
- Recording Quality: Adjust the bitrate and quality of your recorded audio.
Advanced Desktop Audio Recording Techniques
Take your desktop audio recording to the next level with these advanced techniques:
Using Multiple Audio Sources
OBS allows you to add multiple audio sources, enabling you to record both desktop audio and external audio devices simultaneously. This is useful for podcasters, YouTubers, and gamers who need to capture high-quality audio from multiple sources.
Applying Audio Filters
OBS offers a range of audio filters to enhance and refine your desktop audio recordings. These filters include:
- Noise Suppression: Reduces background noise and hiss.
- Noise Gate: Automatically mutes your audio when it falls below a certain threshold.
- Equalization: Adjusts the tone and frequency response of your audio.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering issues with your desktop audio recording? Here are some common problems and solutions:
No Audio Being Recorded
- Check that your desktop audio source is selected and enabled.
- Verify that your audio device is properly configured in your computer’s sound settings.
- Ensure that OBS is set to record the correct audio device.
Audio Delay or Sync Issues
- Adjust the Audio Sync Offset setting in OBS to compensate for any audio delay.
- Check that your audio device is properly configured and that there are no conflicts with other audio applications.
Conclusion
Recording desktop audio with OBS is a straightforward process that requires minimal setup and configuration. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to capture high-quality desktop audio and produce professional-grade content. Whether you’re a seasoned content creator or just starting out, OBS is an excellent choice for recording desktop audio.
What is OBS and how does it help in recording desktop audio?
OBS, or Open Broadcasting Software, is a free and open-source software for video recording and live streaming. It is widely used for recording desktop audio, as it provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of customization options. With OBS, users can easily capture and record audio from their desktop, including system sounds, microphone input, and audio from various applications.
OBS is particularly useful for recording desktop audio because it allows users to select specific audio sources, adjust audio levels, and apply filters to enhance the sound quality. Additionally, OBS supports multiple audio formats, making it easy to export and share recorded audio files. Whether you’re a gamer, podcaster, or video creator, OBS is an excellent tool for recording high-quality desktop audio.
What are the system requirements for recording desktop audio with OBS?
To record desktop audio with OBS, your computer should meet certain system requirements. For Windows users, OBS requires at least Windows 8 (64-bit) or later, while macOS users need macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or later. Additionally, your computer should have a multi-core processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card.
In terms of audio equipment, you’ll need a microphone or other audio input device to capture audio. OBS also supports a wide range of audio interfaces, so you can use external audio equipment if needed. Furthermore, ensure that your computer has the necessary audio drivers installed and updated to ensure smooth audio recording.
How do I set up OBS for recording desktop audio?
To set up OBS for recording desktop audio, 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, navigate to the “Audio” tab and select the desired audio device, such as your computer’s built-in microphone or an external audio interface.
Next, configure the audio settings to your liking, adjusting options such as sample rate, bitrate, and audio format. You can also set up multiple audio sources, such as system sounds and microphone input, and adjust their levels accordingly. Finally, select the desired recording format and location, and you’re ready to start recording desktop audio with OBS.
Can I record system sounds and microphone input simultaneously with OBS?
Yes, OBS allows you to record system sounds and microphone input simultaneously. To do this, navigate to the “Settings” window and select the “Audio” tab. In the “Audio Mixer” section, click the “+” button to add a new audio source. Select “Desktop Audio” to capture system sounds, and then add another source for your microphone input.
Once you’ve added both sources, you can adjust their levels and settings as needed. OBS will record both audio sources simultaneously, allowing you to capture a mix of system sounds and microphone input. This is particularly useful for recording video game commentary, podcasts, or video tutorials.
How do I improve the audio quality when recording desktop audio with OBS?
To improve the audio quality when recording desktop audio with OBS, start by selecting a high-quality audio device, such as an external microphone or audio interface. Next, adjust the audio settings in OBS to optimize the sound quality. This includes selecting a suitable sample rate, bitrate, and audio format.
Additionally, consider applying audio filters in OBS to enhance the sound quality. For example, you can use the “Noise Suppression” filter to reduce background noise or the “Gain” filter to boost the audio levels. You can also use external audio processing software to further enhance the audio quality before importing it into OBS.
Can I record desktop audio with OBS on a Mac?
Yes, OBS is available for macOS, and you can use it to record desktop audio on a Mac. To do this, download and install OBS from the official website, and then follow the same setup process as on Windows. However, note that OBS on Mac requires additional setup to capture system audio.
To capture system audio on a Mac, you’ll need to install a third-party plugin, such as Soundflower or BlackHole. These plugins allow OBS to capture system audio, which can then be recorded and mixed with other audio sources. Once you’ve installed the plugin, follow the OBS setup process to configure the audio settings and start recording desktop audio.
How do I export and share recorded desktop audio files from OBS?
To export and share recorded desktop audio files from OBS, navigate to the “Settings” window and select the “Output” tab. In the “Recording” section, select the desired file format, such as MP3 or WAV, and choose a location to save the file. You can also set up OBS to automatically export the recorded audio file to a specific location.
Once you’ve exported the recorded audio file, you can share it on various platforms, such as YouTube, SoundCloud, or podcast hosting sites. OBS also supports direct upload to popular streaming platforms, making it easy to share your recorded desktop audio with a wider audience.