How to Stream Live Music on OBS [2025 Guide]

Live-streaming musical performances have become one of the most effective ways for artists worldwide to reach out to global audiences. OBS Studio is arguably the most popular software for broadcasters since it's completely free can be used in most situations, incorporates excellent tools, and is compatible with multiple streaming platforms. This guide gives thorough tours of essential ingredients, setup processes, and the best practices for live-streaming music performances using OBS Studio.

Part 1: Essential Equipment for Streaming Live Music on OBS

Camera: OBSBOT Tail Air

This camera has been manufactured with AI technology for live streaming; it can take up to 4K resolutions, tracking smoothly, and controlling via gestures. Thus, it is perfectly suitable for music performances. Its compact and wireless design means you can perform without the chance of letting down your audience due to technical issues.

Microphone: Audio-Technica AT2020

The Audio-Technica AT2020 is an exceptional microphone for live music streaming. It features a highly effective cardioid polar pattern that captures sound with remarkable clarity and detail. This ensures that the audience experiences the highest quality audio, providing them with an immersive listening experience.

Audio Mixer: Yamaha MG10XU

The Yamaha MG10XU audio mixer is good for live streaming due to the quality of its preamps. Built-in effects with USB connectivity help combine vocals and instruments before sending the sound directly to OBS for live streaming.

Part 2: How to Stream Live Music on OBS

Step 1: Installing and Configuring OBS Studio

• Download OBS Studio: In order to install the software, you have to visit the OBS Studio website and download the respective version for your operating system.
• Install OBS Studio: Install and launch the OBS application.

Step 2: Add Video and Audio Sources

• Connect Your Camera: You can use a USB connection to connect your OBSBOT Tail Air to your computer or take advantage of its wireless capabilities.

Add Camera to OBS:

• In OBS, click on the '+' in the Sources box.
• Now select Video Capture Device and give it a name (e.g., Camera).
• From the device menu list, select OBSBOT Tail Air and configure settings if desired.
• Add Microphone and Mixer Audio:
• Plug the Audio-Technica AT2020 and the Yamaha MG10XU into your computer.
• Click the "+" on the Sources box and select Audio Input Capture.
• Obtain your correct input devices from the device list.

Step 3: Scene graphic setup

Use the preview window in OBS to pan and zoom your video feed together with overlaid text or images such as your band name or social media handles using the sources menu.

Part 3: Connect OBS with a Streaming Platform

Step 1: Find the Stream Key

• Log in to YouTube and go to YouTube Studio.
• Click on Create > Go Live on the main Dashboard.
• Copy the Stream Key within Stream Settings. For the full guide on how to find the Stream Key on YouTube, check this article.

Step 2: Integrate Stream Key in OBS

• Run OBS and go to Settings > Stream.
• Choose YouTube as the service.
• Paste the copied Stream Key into the relevant field.
• Hit apply and then OK to make the changes effective.

Part 4: Testing Before Going Live

• Check for Audio Levels: Use OBS’s audio mixer to ensure there is a balancedness between the level inputs of the microphone and mixer. Avoid red peaks to avoid distortion.
• Run a Test Stream: Enable a private stream on YouTube to test your setup without a public audience. Next, monitor audio and video quality during the test stream.
• Adjust Settings: This involves setting a configuration of the resolution, bitrate, and frame rates in the OBS Studio according to the user's preference.
• Test the Stability of the Internet: See if your internet connection can handle the upload requirement for your chosen resolution and bitrate.

Conclusion

It would be a very rewarding experience to share your talent by streaming live with an OBS Studio, provided you get the right equipment, proper planning, and sufficient testing of your entire setup for perfect streaming. It's going to be a lot easier with regards to streaming live music when you use OBS Studio. So, gear up, test your entire setup, and let the world enjoy your live music experience!