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Use OBS’s built-in Media Source for one rain video and turn on Loop. Choose VLC Video Source when you want a playlist of several clips, then enable Loop Playlist. The built-in source avoids installing VLC; the playlist source makes rotating multiple files straightforward.
Which OBS source should you choose?
| Your setup | Choose | What to enable or check |
|---|---|---|
| One local rain video | Media Source | Enable Loop; it is off by default. |
| Several rain clips in sequence | VLC Video Source | Add the files as a playlist and enable Loop Playlist, which OBS lists as on by default. |
| Several clips in a changing order | VLC Video Source | Use its playlist and optionally enable shuffle. |
OBS documents Media Source for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its listed video formats include MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM; listed audio formats include MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV. VLC Video Source uses VLC libraries for extended media support and will not appear until VLC is installed. Match architectures: OBS specifies 64-bit VLC when using 64-bit OBS. See the OBS Media Sources guide for the source controls and platform details.
Set up looping in OBS
- Add the right source. In the scene where the rain stream will run, add Media Source for one local file or VLC Video Source for multiple files. For a VLC playlist, install VLC first; use 64-bit VLC with 64-bit OBS.
- Select the media. Choose the rain file in Media Source, or populate the VLC Video Source playlist with the clips you want played. Confirm the file paths point to media available on the computer that will run OBS.
- Turn on repeat. In Media Source, check Loop. In VLC Video Source, check Loop Playlist. For a playlist, choose whether shuffle is appropriate: leave it off for a predictable sequence, or turn it on if you want clip order to change.
- Choose hidden-source behavior. Check what the source does when it is hidden in OBS. VLC Video Source offers stop/restart, pause/unpause, or always-play behavior. Choose deliberately so switching scenes or hiding the source does not unexpectedly stop playback.
- Check audio and preview. Verify the intended audio track and confirm that both picture and sound play as expected in the OBS preview. Monitor the output before leaving it unattended; YouTube’s encoder streaming guidance recommends monitoring stream audio and video quality.
Plan for a 24/7 broadcast, not just a looping file
OBS looping does not guarantee an unattended stream
Looping controls what happens when media reaches its end; it does not guarantee that OBS will stay live continuously. Reliability also depends on the computer, power, internet connection, media file, encoder, and streaming platform. No source setting by itself removes those dependencies.
Keep rights for the rain recording and audio
If streaming to YouTube, use footage and sound you have the rights to broadcast. YouTube’s livestream terms require the creator to have the necessary rights for live content, including applicable music licensing rights. YouTube also scans live streams for third-party content; a match can lead to a placeholder, interruption, or termination, and a license may not prevent that if the rights holder has not allowlisted the channel through Content ID. See YouTube’s guidance on copyright issues with live streams.
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- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Next-gen capture: Unleash the full potential of your content with cutting-edge 4K resolution, delivering crystal-clear visuals at an impressive 144 frames per second.
- HDMI 2.1 in/out: Elevate your recording capabilities with HDMI 2.1 support, allowing you to document high frame rates up to 240fps in glorious 1080p resolution for an unparalleled viewing experience.
- VRR passthrough: Immerse yourself completely in the gaming experience as our Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough ensures flawlessly smooth gameplay, eliminating screen tearing for an uninterrupted visual feast.
- Ultra-low latency: Stay in the moment with ultra-low latency powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring your broadcast and gameplay remain perfectly synchronized, delivering an immersive and responsive streaming experience.
Prefer original rain footage and audio, or a license that clearly permits the intended live use, territory, and any archived replay. Keep license records. A rain recording is not automatically free to use: the recording itself and any composition or other embedded audio can involve separate rights.
Do not rely on a complete YouTube archive or fixed rewind window
YouTube says streams shorter than 12 hours can be automatically archived, while streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all. For a continuous 24/7 broadcast, do not assume one complete YouTube archive will be available afterward. YouTube Help recommends recording a local archive as a backup. If a full replay matters, make a local recording or plan shorter scheduled segments. An external SSD is one optional place to keep a local recording; YouTube and OBS do not require one. Details are in YouTube’s archive guidance.
Rank #2
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Unrivaled Gaming Experience: Immerse yourself in pure gameplay at an astounding 8K60 resolution, all while effortlessly capturing the action in stunning 4K60 quality.
- Cutting-Edge Connectivity: Harness the power of HDMI 2.1 in/out to effortlessly record high frame rates, reaching up to an incredible 240fps in pristine 1080p resolution.
- Seamless Visuals: Say goodbye to screen tearing and relish in a flawlessly smooth gaming experience with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough technology.
- Perfectly Synced Entertainment: Achieve unparalleled synchronization between your broadcast and gameplay, thanks to ultra-low latency that ensures every moment is captured with precision.
YouTube DVR lets viewers pause and rewind live streams, but rewind can be limited or unavailable for very long broadcasts, including streams longer than 12 hours. Do not promise viewers a particular rewind window for a continuous stream; see YouTube’s DVR guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to choose a cloud option instead
If your specific aim is an always-on YouTube stream of uploaded rain videos and you do not want a computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud alternative. Upload the recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It loops uploaded videos in the cloud; it is not a camera broadcast service.
Rank #3
- Turn Your Camera into a Pro Webcam: Connect your DSLR or mirrorless camera to any computer and go live in stunning quality
- Stunning quality: Stream and record in 1080p60 or even 4K60 for razor-sharp detail (Requires a compatible camera and the latest Cam Link 4K model)
- Connect More Than Just Cameras: Use a camcorder, action cam, or even your iPhone to level up your content
- No Lag, No Delays: Ultra-low latency keeps your video and audio perfectly in sync, just like it should be
- Your iPad, Now a Pro Field Monitor: Preview your shots in real time on an iPad with USB-C
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, nothing has to stay on at home. Your uploaded video streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot regardless of quality; if YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically attempts recovery. The first day is free with no card. The monthly price is $9.99 per month. Each slot includes one always-on stream, 10 GB storage per slot pooled across active slots, looping and playlists, and support from the StreamNeo team. See StreamNeo for details, then start the free first day.
Quick Recap
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.
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