OBS audio workflow

Separate game, Discord, music, and mic audio in OBS.

Clean audio routing makes streams easier to control and VODs easier to save. The goal is simple: each important sound source should have its own meter, mute control, and track plan.

Use the setup checklistStarter audio gearDropped/skipped frames

Simple routing checklist

  • Add your microphone as its own OBS audio source.
  • Capture game audio separately when your OS/setup supports it.
  • Route Discord/voice chat separately from game audio when possible.
  • Keep music on its own source so it can be muted or excluded from VODs.
  • Use filters lightly: noise suppression, compressor, limiter, then test.

Common beginner mistake

If everything comes through desktop audio, you cannot quickly mute music, lower Discord, or fix a loud game without affecting the whole stream. Separate sources are more work upfront but save headaches later.

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