how to stream obs to discord with sound

3 min read 22-01-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to effortlessly stream your OBS Studio content to Discord with audio, enhancing your community interactions. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for both beginners and experienced streamers. Master audio settings and troubleshoot common issues to create a seamless streaming experience.

Getting Started: Preparing Your OBS Studio and Discord

Before diving into the streaming process, ensure you have the necessary software and settings configured correctly. This foundational step will prevent many common streaming headaches.

1. Install and Configure OBS Studio

Download and Installation: Download and install OBS Studio from the official website. Choose the version appropriate for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Scene Setup: Create a new scene within OBS. This scene will contain all the sources you want to display during your stream (game capture, webcam, etc.).
Audio Sources: Add your audio sources. This might include your game audio, microphone, and any other audio input you wish to include. Ensure each source is properly configured and selected. Pay close attention to the audio levels to avoid clipping or low volume.

2. Setting up Discord for Streaming

Discord Server: Ensure you have a Discord server set up and ready to go. If not, create one and invite your viewers.
Streaming Permissions: Make sure your Discord role allows you to stream. If not, adjust your server settings. Check if streaming is enabled on the server.

Streaming Your OBS to Discord: A Detailed Walkthrough

This section provides the core steps to successfully stream your OBS Studio output to Discord.

1. Accessing Discord's Go Live Feature

Within Discord, locate the Go Live option. This is usually found in the lower-left corner of your chat window, symbolized by a monitor icon.

2. Selecting the Correct OBS Output

Go Live: Once you click "Go Live", Discord will request access to your streaming source. Select OBS Studio from the list of available applications. This step establishes the connection between OBS and your Discord server.
OBS Settings: Ensure your OBS Studio settings are correctly configured to output at a resolution and bitrate compatible with Discord's limitations. Discord's stream quality depends on your internet speed and upload bandwidth.

3. Troubleshooting Audio Issues

This is the most common problem encountered. Here are a few steps to ensure you are broadcasting your sound successfully:

Check OBS Audio Sources: In OBS, verify that your desired audio sources are enabled and set to the correct levels. Make sure that the audio is routed to the “Desktop Audio” or "Mic/Auxiliary Audio" (depending on your OBS version) output.
Advanced Audio Properties: OBS provides advanced audio properties where you can check for routing and mixing issues.
Discord Audio Settings: Verify your Discord audio settings to ensure they are properly configured.
Monitor Your Stream: Once live, check that both audio and video are working correctly. Use Discord's stream preview or ask a friend to check for you.

4. Stream Key (Not Required for Discord)

Unlike streaming platforms such as Twitch or YouTube, Discord's Go Live feature does not require a stream key. This simplifies the process.

Optimizing Your Discord Stream

To enhance your viewers' experience, consider these optimization tips:

Bitrate: Adjust your OBS bitrate settings to optimize for your internet connection. A higher bitrate provides better quality, but requires a faster upload speed. Experiment to find the best balance.
Resolution: Choose a resolution appropriate for your viewers' bandwidth. Lower resolutions are easier to stream and more accessible to viewers with slower internet speeds.
Scene Transitions: Use OBS transitions for a polished look.

Advanced Techniques and Further Considerations

For more advanced users, explore these additional features:

Multiple Scenes: Utilize multiple scenes in OBS for a more organized and dynamic stream. Create different scenes for introductions, gameplay, breaks, and more.
Stream Notifications: Alert your Discord community when you go live. You can use bots or Discord's native notification features.

Streaming to Discord with OBS Studio is a straightforward process once you understand the basics. With a little practice, you'll be broadcasting your gameplay or content to your community in no time! Remember to test your setup before going live to prevent any surprises.