Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFor OBS Studio users, a sensible free starting point is Cockos ReaPlugs: OBS names the suite among plugins used to develop and test its VST support, and Cockos offers it as a free download. That is useful compatibility evidence, not proof that every plugin works on every system or that ReaPlugs sounds better than alternatives. First check the format: OBS’s documented VST filter supports many VST 2.x plugins, not VST 3.x.
What to check before choosing a VST for OBS
- Plugin format: OBS’s documented VST filter supports many VST 2.x plugins. It does not support VST 1.x, VST 3.x, MIDI control or input, or shell VST plugins. Check the specific plugin’s format before installing it. OBS documents the supported formats and limitations.
- Processing job: Decide whether you need equalization, compression, a gate, or another effect. Confirm the plugin’s current documentation provides the feature you want; a package name alone does not establish that it includes every type of processing.
- Operating system and architecture: Match the plugin build to your OBS installation and operating system. OBS identifies Windows
.dll, macOS.vst, and Linux.soor.oplugin files and publishes platform-specific search locations. - Stability and CPU: OBS warns that it has not tested every plugin, some plugins may crash, and CPU usage can be high. Try a plugin in a test recording or private stream before relying on it live, and save your settings first.
Recommended VST options and built-in alternatives
ReaPlugs: a free starting point, not a tested winner
ReaPlugs is Cockos’s package of REAPER FX plugins for use in another host. OBS lists the free ReaPlugs VFX suite among plugins used while developing and testing its VST support. That makes it a reasonable first package to investigate if you want to try VST effects in OBS, but it is not a comparative endorsement.
Cockos’s page lists VST v2.36 downloads in 32-bit and 64-bit versions dated January 2, 2016. The package is free, but those listed builds are old. Verify current compatibility with your operating system and OBS version before depending on them.
Melda Production: named in OBS compatibility guidance
OBS also names Melda Production among plugins used to develop and test its VST support. This is not a claim that every plugin in the collection works equally well, or that a particular plugin is the best fit for your audio problem. Check the format, system requirements, and processing function for the exact plugin you are considering.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
OBS Noise Suppression: try it for mild background noise
If your main problem is mild room or computer noise, you may not need a separate VST. OBS’s built-in Noise Suppression filter offers RNNoise and Speex. OBS describes RNNoise as higher quality but more CPU-intensive than Speex; stronger Speex suppression can distort a voice. Start conservatively and listen for artifacts before increasing suppression. See OBS’s Noise Suppression Filter guidance.
OBS also documents NVIDIA Noise Removal as an option within its filter when the NVIDIA Broadcast SDK redistributable is installed. This is a separate software dependency, not a general requirement for VST plugins.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
NVIDIA Broadcast: an optional virtual-microphone workflow
NVIDIA Broadcast is a separate option: select its virtual microphone as the input in your streaming app, and avoid stacking duplicate noise-removal effects. NVIDIA’s setup guide, dated September 17, 2020, lists a GeForce RTX 2060, Quadro RTX 3000, TITAN RTX, or higher, along with Windows 10 64-bit and other requirements. Those are requirements from that dated guide, not confirmation of current minimums; check NVIDIA’s current official requirements before choosing hardware or installing it. Read NVIDIA’s Broadcast setup guide.
How to add a VST filter in OBS Studio
- Install a compatible VST 2.x plugin for your operating system and OBS architecture. If you are unsure where the installer places it, consult the plugin maker’s instructions.
- In OBS, open Audio Mixer, select the gear icon for the microphone or other audio source you want to process, and choose Filters.
- In the Filters window, use the + button under Audio Filters and select VST 2.x Plugin.
- Choose the installed plugin from the VST 2.x Plugin dropdown, then open its interface and adjust only the controls relevant to your goal.
- Make a test recording or private stream. Listen for distortion, pumping, clipped peaks, delay, or dropouts; monitor CPU use as you test.
If the plugin does not appear, confirm it is a supported VST 2.x plugin rather than VST 3.x, check that its architecture matches OBS, and verify the file is in a location OBS searches. On Linux, OBS notes that setting VST_PATH replaces its other search locations, so include the required plugin directory there. Because plugins can crash OBS, save your scene and audio settings before experimenting.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Troubleshooting common VST problems
- The plugin is missing from the dropdown: Check format, operating-system build, architecture, and install location against OBS’s VST filter documentation. A VST 3.x plugin will not load through this documented filter.
- OBS crashes after adding a plugin: OBS cautions that some plugins may crash. Reopen OBS without the filter if possible, remove or disable the plugin, and test it separately before putting it back into a live scene.
- Audio crackles or the stream stutters: Check CPU usage and disable unnecessary processing while testing. OBS warns that VST plugins can use substantial CPU; its documentation does not provide a universal safe threshold.
- Your voice sounds thin, metallic, or cut off: Reduce noise suppression or gating. In particular, OBS warns that strong Speex suppression can distort speech; compare the processed sound with the untreated source.
- Noise cancellation seems to be applied twice: Check both the selected input device and OBS filters. If using NVIDIA Broadcast’s virtual microphone, do not add duplicate noise-removal processing without listening carefully to the result.
Or let it run in the cloud
VST plugins process audio in a host such as OBS; they do not keep a live stream running after your computer is off. If your goal is a 24/7 YouTube stream from uploaded videos rather than live microphone processing, StreamNeo runs the stream from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home. Uploaded video streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; there are no quality tiers or re-encoding. StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. For a 24/7 YouTube stream from uploaded videos, start your free StreamNeo day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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