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To use a VST plug-in in OBS, add the built-in VST 2.x Plugin audio filter to the microphone or other audio source you want to process, then choose an installed VST2 plug-in. OBS documents support for VST 2.x—not VST3—in this filter, so a VST3-only plug-in will not appear in its selector. Set up and test the filter before streaming: some plug-ins can crash OBS or use substantial CPU.
What OBS supports—and what it does not
OBS Studio has a built-in VST 2.x audio filter for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The OBS Project says, “OBS Studio supports many VST2.x plugins.” The documented filter does not support VST1.x, VST3.x, MIDI control or input in VST plug-ins, or shell VST plug-ins. A plug-in must also be built for your operating system and architecture. OBS Project: VST 2.x Plugin Filter
In practical terms, look for a compatible VST2 build before installing. OBS lists REAPER ReaPlugs and Melda Production among the plug-ins used while developing and testing VST support; that is not a guarantee that every plug-in or build will work on every system. OBS Project: Plugins Guide
How to add a VST to OBS
- Add and check the audio source. In OBS, add or select the microphone or other source you want to process. Confirm its meter responds in the Audio Mixer. A filter attached to your microphone will not change unrelated desktop or game audio.
- Choose a compatible plug-in. For OBS’s built-in filter, use a VST2 plug-in, not a VST3-only product. Check the plug-in vendor’s instructions for the correct operating system and 32-bit or 64-bit build.
- Install it in a location OBS scans. Follow the vendor’s installation instructions. OBS documents common VST directories, including Windows locations under Program Files/Common Files, macOS locations under
/Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST/and the user Library, and VST paths on Linux. On Linux, ifVST_PATHis set, OBS uses the locations in that variable instead of the other scan locations. See the OBS VST filter guide for the documented paths. - Open the source’s Filters dialog. Select the audio source, open Filters, add the VST 2.x Plugin audio filter, and select the installed effect in the filter’s plug-in selector. Save your OBS settings before experimenting.
- Build a simple chain. Start with only the processing you need. Corrective EQ can address tonal issues; gentle compression can reduce the difference between quieter and louder speech. Add a gate or noise processor only if it helps with your room noise without cutting off word beginnings or introducing audible artifacts.
- Test before relying on it live. Listen while speaking at a normal level. Watch for clipped peaks, pumping, dropouts, or a gate truncating words. Monitor CPU use, and try one new plug-in at a time. OBS warns that some plug-ins can crash and that some can be CPU hungry.
- Record and listen back. Make a recording of a typical session and check the processed result, including how it sits alongside game audio, music, or other sources. A meter alone cannot tell you whether speech sounds clear or balanced.
Which effects should you use?
| Effect | What it is for | What to listen for |
|---|---|---|
| EQ | Adjusting tonal balance or addressing a specific frequency problem. | Speech should sound clearer without becoming harsh, thin, or unnatural. |
| Compression | Controlling dynamic differences between quieter and louder speech. | Listen for pumping or for background noise becoming more obvious between words. |
| Gate | Reducing low-level background noise when you are not speaking. | Check that quiet words and the beginnings or ends of phrases are not cut off. |
| Denoising | Reducing steady or intermittent unwanted noise. | Listen for processing artifacts and confirm speech remains intelligible. |
These are starting points, not universal settings: the right amount depends on the microphone, room, voice, and noise. ReaPlugs includes ReaEQ, ReaComp, ReaGate, and ReaFIR, among other tools, but no single setting is established for every setup. Cockos: ReaPlugs VST FX Suite
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#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- 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.
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- 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.
A free plug-in option: ReaPlugs for Windows
Cockos describes ReaPlugs as a free VST FX suite. Its download page lists 32-bit and 64-bit Windows VST v2.36 installers dated January 2, 2016, with EQ, compression, gating, and noise-reduction tools. The cited page does not establish a current Mac or Linux installer, so Windows users should check the listed installer against their system and other-platform users should verify availability with the vendor rather than assume these downloads apply to them. ReaPlugs download page
Why isn’t my VST plug-in showing up in OBS?
- The plug-in is VST3-only. OBS’s documented built-in filter does not support VST3. Find a compatible VST2 build if the vendor provides one. A third-party bridge or separate host is not a universal fix; verify its current documentation and compatibility with your OBS build before relying on it.
- It is installed outside the scan locations. Check the paths documented in the OBS VST filter guide and the vendor’s installation instructions. On Linux, check whether
VST_PATHis set, because it overrides the other locations OBS would scan. - The build does not match your system. Confirm the operating system and architecture required by the plug-in and install the matching build where available.
- OBS is unstable or audio breaks up after adding it. Disable or remove the new effect, restore your saved settings, then test one plug-in at a time while watching CPU use. OBS explicitly warns about crashes and high CPU use with some VST plug-ins.
- The meter moves, but the sound is clipped or unbalanced. Reduce gain at the source first, then rebalance the processed voice against game audio, music, and effects. Red on the OBS meter is a warning that a signal is close to clipping, not a measure of perceived loudness.
- Audio reaches only one side. Check the source’s channel mapping and mono/stereo behavior. OBS says mono sources are heard in both left and right channels; stereo channel assignment matters. In Advanced Audio Properties, the mixer also provides a Downmix to Mono option.
For level checks, start at the source device, monitor the signal in OBS, and record and listen to a normal session before going live. See the OBS Audio Mixer Guide.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 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.)
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- 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.
Or let it run in the cloud
VST filters process audio in OBS; they do not keep an OBS session running after your computer is off. If your goal is to keep uploaded videos looping as a YouTube live stream, StreamNeo is a separate cloud service: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It plays uploaded videos rather than broadcasting a camera feed.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 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.
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- 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
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- 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
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- 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.
- Nothing has to stay on at home: StreamNeo loops the uploaded video from the cloud.
- Any quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, streamed as uploaded without re-encoding or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free, with no card required; one free day is available per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
