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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
To stream a rotating playlist to YouTube Live with OBS, install VLC, add your videos to OBS’s VLC Video Source, enable playlist looping, then connect OBS to a YouTube encoder stream with its stream URL and key. Test the video and audio in YouTube’s Live Control Room before making the stream public.
Before you start
- Install OBS Studio and VLC. OBS’s VLC Video Source depends on VLC libraries, so the source will not be available unless VLC is installed. Match their architectures: OBS specifically requires 64-bit VLC when you use 64-bit OBS.
- Have the video files ready on the computer running OBS. Check that they play correctly and that you have the rights needed to stream them.
- Make sure your YouTube channel is eligible to stream. YouTube says a channel must be verified and have no live-streaming restrictions in the preceding 90 days. First-time live-stream activation can take up to 24 hours, so enable it well before a planned broadcast.
OBS’s media-source documentation is dated January 11, 2022, and interface labels can change between software releases. YouTube’s linked help pages do not show publication dates in the available documentation; check their current instructions if a label or setting differs.
Build and loop the playlist in OBS
- Open OBS and select the scene that should show the videos. In the Sources panel, select + and choose VLC Video Source. If that option is missing, confirm VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS.
- In the source properties, add the video files to the playlist in the order you want them to play. Review the list before applying it; the source follows the listed order unless shuffle is enabled.
- Leave Loop Playlist on to restart playback at the beginning after the last file ends. Looping is enabled by default. Leave Shuffle Playlist off for a predictable sequence; turn it on only if you want a randomized order.
- Choose how the source behaves when it is not visible. OBS’s default is to stop playback while hidden and restart it when visible. If you switch scenes and want playback to continue, change the hidden-source behavior to continue instead. Pause is another available behavior.
- Check the audio track selection. The default is Audio Track 1; choose another track if the file’s sound is on a different track. Network caching defaults to 400 ms and is relevant if media is hosted over a network; local files generally do not require changing it.
- Apply the properties, then preview the scene. Confirm that the video fits the canvas and that its audio is audible at a sensible level. If the playlist contains files with different aspect ratios, check each one rather than relying on the first clip as a test.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- In YouTube Studio, open Live Control Room and create or select an encoder stream. Follow YouTube’s current flow for choosing a scheduled event or an ongoing stream.
- Copy YouTube’s stream URL and stream key into OBS’s streaming settings. The key is a credential used by the encoder to send the feed; do not share it or display it on stream. If it is exposed, reset it in YouTube Studio and update OBS with the replacement.
- In OBS, select the YouTube service if available, or enter the server URL and stream key in the streaming settings. Use the server URL supplied for the selected YouTube stream rather than a URL copied from another event.
- Choose video and audio output settings that YouTube supports and your upload connection can sustain. YouTube recommends RTMPS, describing it as a secure extension to RTMP. Its current guidance lists H.264, H.265 (HEVC), or AV1 video for RTMP/RTMPS, CBR bitrate encoding, frame rates up to 60 fps, and AAC or MP3 audio.
- Set the keyframe interval to 2 seconds as YouTube recommends; do not exceed 4 seconds. Use YouTube’s resolution-specific bitrate guidance instead of applying one bitrate to every resolution. Leave enough upload capacity for a stable stream rather than setting the encoder to the connection’s theoretical maximum.
- Use RTMP/RTMPS for the ordinary workflow. YouTube also documents HLS, which can be relevant for codec or HDR requirements, but it has higher latency because it sends video in segments. Choose it only when those requirements justify the latency trade-off.
Test, then start the broadcast
- Start streaming from OBS and wait for the incoming feed to appear in YouTube’s Live Control Room preview. For a scheduled event, start the encoder first and verify the preview before selecting Go Live.
- Watch and listen to the actual playlist in preview. Check that clips advance, looping works at the end of the list, audio is present and synchronized, and no file unexpectedly appears blank or silent.
- Review YouTube’s stream health indicators and fix warnings before directing viewers to the broadcast. Keep the Live Control Room open during the stream so you can notice interruptions or quality problems.
YouTube recommends testing before streaming. Do not assume a playlist is ready because one video played successfully in OBS; test the full sequence or at least verify each file and the transition back to the beginning.
Copyright and YouTube channel considerations
Only stream videos and audio that you created, licensed, or are otherwise permitted to use. A video being available online or stored on your computer does not itself grant permission to rebroadcast it. YouTube’s copyright systems and channel policies may affect a live stream, and permission to use material does not guarantee that a channel will qualify for monetization. Review the rights and YouTube policies that apply to your content before broadcasting.
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Guermok Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| VLC Video Source is missing | VLC is not installed, or its architecture does not match OBS. | Install VLC and match architectures; OBS’s documentation specifically calls for 64-bit VLC with 64-bit OBS. |
| The playlist stops after the last file | Looping is off or the playlist configuration did not apply. | Open the source properties, enable Loop Playlist, apply the change, and test through the end of the list. |
| Videos play in an unexpected order | Shuffle is enabled or files were added in a different order than intended. | Disable Shuffle Playlist for listed-order playback and reorder the files in the source properties. |
| Playback restarts after switching scenes | The source uses the default stop-when-hidden behavior. | Change the hidden-source behavior to continue if you need playback to run while another scene is visible. |
| Video appears but has no sound, or uses the wrong language/audio | The selected source audio track may not contain the desired audio. | Check the VLC source’s Audio Track setting; it defaults to track 1. Then verify sound in OBS and YouTube preview. |
| YouTube does not receive the OBS feed | The stream URL or key may be wrong, stale, or entered in the wrong service configuration. | Copy the URL and key from the selected YouTube encoder stream again. Keep the key private; reset it if it may have been exposed. |
| YouTube reports stream-quality warnings | Encoder settings may not match YouTube’s recommendations or the upload connection may not sustain the chosen output. | Check resolution-specific bitrate guidance, use CBR, set a 2-second keyframe interval (never over 4 seconds), and reduce output demands if the connection is unreliable. |
| The stream is not available to start | The channel may not yet be enabled for live streaming or may have a restriction. | Verify the channel and eligibility in YouTube Studio. First-time activation can take up to 24 hours. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube playlist to stay live without leaving OBS and your computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It plays uploaded videos rather than broadcasting from a camera.
- Nothing has to stay on at home: the stream runs in the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to remain on.
- Any quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot: videos stream as uploaded, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- If YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically recovers.
- The first day is free with no card required. The same product is included on every plan; only the billing length changes.
Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, or start your free first day.
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SaleBestseller No. 4
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Capture Card, USB Video Capture Card Device, Audio Video Converter Grabber for RCA to USB-Convert VHS Mini DV VCR Hi8 DVD to Digital, for PC TV Tape Player Camcorder, MAC Windows Vista Compatible
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
- Quality Capture Card: Our USB Video Capture Card converting anolog RCA composite input into HD 720P USB output and capturing audio without any sound card. Advanced signal processing technology provides you with great precision, colors, resolutions, and details.
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- Wide Compatibility: The Video Capture Card can work with video devices with RCA connector or S-Video connector, such as VHS, VCR, Hi8, camcorder, compatible with Windows and Mac OS. Support video formats like NTSC, PAL, and support brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation control
- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Rank #4
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Capture Card, 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Game Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Device, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Card for Streaming, Work with Camera/Xbox/PS4/PS5/PC/OBS
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
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Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P60FPS HDMI Capture Card for Streaming, Gaming, Video Recording Compatible with Switch, Xbox, PS4/5, OBS,iPad Mac OS Windows,Camera, Zoom(Silver)
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
Rank #2
Audio Express AXHDCAP 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Cam Link Card Game Audio Adapter HDMI to USB 2.0 Record Capture Device for Streaming, Live Broadcasting, Video Conference, Teaching, Gaming
- [Enhanced 4K-1080P Video Capture Experience] Capture the Magic: Elevate your video recordings to new heights with our upgraded anti-static 1080P Video Capture Card. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, supporting HDMI input at 4K 60FPS and USB output for capturing in 1080P, complete with rich stereo sound. Enjoy crystal-clear video recordings, dynamic gaming live streams, and professional conference broadcasts. Note: HDMI resolution: Max input can be 3840×2160@30Hz / Video output resolution: Max output can be 1920×1080@30Hz
- [Seamless Real-Time Preview] Stay in the Moment: Our advanced ultra-low latency technology ensures seamless real-time transmission of video streams. Experience instant, lag-free previews, allowing you to capture every detail precisely. Effortlessly record video directly to your hard disk, all without compromising on quality or introducing any delays.
- [Versatility and Broad Compatibility] Your Creative Hub: Connect your DSLR, camcorder, or action camera to a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Unlock a world of possibilities with real-time streaming to popular platforms like Twitch, Youtube, OBS, Zoom, Potplayer, and VLC, giving you the tools to share your content effortlessly.
- [Effortless Plug and Play] Simplicity Redefined: Say goodbye to complex installations. Our plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers or external power supplies. Seamlessly integrate high-definition acquisition into various scenarios, whether it's educational recordings, immersive gaming, precise medical imaging, captivating live streams, or professional broadcasting.
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