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If your capture card shows video but records no sound, trace audio from the source device to the card, into your capture software, and finally to your headphones or speakers. The failure may be at any one of those points. If a recording or stream has sound but you cannot hear it locally, capture is working; check monitoring and playback routing instead.
Find where the audio disappears
Video working does not prove that the capture card is receiving a usable audio signal. Start with a sound you know is playing, then check each stage:
- Source: Play audio on the console, camera, or computer. Check that its audio output is enabled and directed to the connection feeding the card.
- Card or operating-system input: If the card’s utility or your operating system provides an input meter, see whether it responds to the sound.
- Capture software: Check the capture source’s properties and the audio mixer. Look for activity while the source audio plays.
- Local playback: If the mixer moves or a test recording contains sound, but your headphones are silent, investigate monitoring and playback-device routing.
A silent card or operating-system input points to the source, connection, or card input. An active input with no activity in the capture software points toward source selection or software setup. Sound in a recording but not in your headphones points toward monitoring, not missing capture. Device meters and menus vary by model and operating system.
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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Check the card’s selected audio input
Confirm whether the connected source sends audio over HDMI or through an analog connection, then select the matching input in the capture card’s software or capture-source settings. For its Game Capture Device, Elgato advises checking whether the input is set to HDMI or Analog in its no-game-sound troubleshooting guide.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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
In OBS, open the video capture source’s properties and check its audio output mode and selected device. If audio is not captured automatically, Elgato’s Windows instructions for the covered devices say to enable Use Custom Audio Device and select the capture card. OBS also documents audio output modes and the custom audio device option in its video capture source guide. The exact controls depend on the card and setup.
Use the OBS setup that matches your device and macOS version
Audio capture workflows differ between Windows and macOS, and they can also differ by capture-card model. Follow the instructions for your exact device rather than assuming that every card appears or captures audio the same way.
Rank #2
- [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.
- [Seize Every Detail with Precision] Unleash your creativity and attention to detail with our video capture card. Capture every nuance, every color, and every moment with precision, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of our technology. Whether you're a content creator, a gamer, or a professional, our capture card empowers you to seize the finest elements and bring them to life in your recordings and live streams.
Elgato Cam Link 4K and Game Capture HD60 S+
For these specific devices, Elgato says Windows OBS can capture audio automatically when the device is added. For macOS OBS, its instructions call for adding an Audio Input Capture source and selecting the device. See Elgato’s device-specific troubleshooting instructions; do not treat this workflow as a universal rule for other capture cards.
Other macOS audio-capture combinations
OBS’s macOS instructions vary with both OBS and macOS versions. OBS Studio 30 and later on macOS 13 (Ventura) and higher can use the macOS Audio Capture source; other version combinations use different methods. Check the OBS macOS desktop audio capture guide for the instructions that match your installed versions.
Rank #3
- 【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.
If OBS captures sound but you cannot hear it
Capture and local monitoring are separate. OBS can capture audio for a recording or stream without playing that audio through your headphones. Check the capture source’s audio output mode and the mixer’s monitoring configuration. OBS describes Capture Only and output-to-desktop modes in its video capture source guide.
Also check which playback device OBS and your operating system are using. Avoid routing a monitored signal back into another source that OBS captures, as this can create echo or feedback. OBS warns that selecting the same device globally under Settings > Audio and again as a scene-level source can cause echo; disable one path if both are active. Its audio-source guide explains the distinction.
Rank #4
- 【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.
Verify the source output and audio format
Make sure the console, camera, or computer is configured to send audio through the connected output. If the card offers multiple audio inputs, select the one actually connected. Audio-format limits and recommendations depend on the equipment.
For example, Plugable’s NIX HDMI capture-card guide says sample-rate mismatches between the source, card, and OBS may cause popping, cutouts, or other audio problems. It recommends 16-bit, 48,000 Hz settings for that product. That is product-specific advice, not a universal requirement; check the documentation for your card and source before changing format settings.
Best Value
- 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.
- Plug and Play: Automatically install the driver once you hook up this RCA to USB Converter to a PC. No external power is needed. User-friendly and easy to operate
- 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
When to contact support or consider another card
After confirming the source sends audio, the card or operating system detects it, and the correct input is selected, test another supported source or capture application if one is available. If the problem persists, consult the manufacturer’s support and compatibility guidance for your exact model. Evidence of hardware failure or incompatibility may justify a replacement; a silent OBS meter caused by source selection or monitoring does not.
If replacement is warranted, compare support for your source and operating system, HDMI or analog audio inputs as needed, capture-software compatibility, and the resolution and frame rate you require. OBS’s certified devices listing identifies devices that meet its certification criteria, but certification cannot guarantee a particular card will resolve every source-routing problem. Check current manufacturer specifications and availability before choosing a USB HDMI capture card.
Quick Recap
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