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To show several recorded event sessions as one continuous YouTube Live broadcast, play the local video files in order through OBS Studio’s VLC Video source, then send OBS to a scheduled YouTube Live event using its server URL and stream key. A YouTube channel playlist is different: it organizes videos and completed live archives after publication; it does not feed local replay files into a live broadcast.
Before you start
- Replay files: Have the event recordings saved locally in the intended order. Watch each file far enough to confirm it has picture and sound, the right aspect ratio, and a clean beginning and ending.
- Rights: Confirm you have permission to rebroadcast all material in each recording, including music, video, graphics, and other embedded content. YouTube’s stream settings guidance warns creators to respect audio and video rights.
- OBS Studio and VLC: Install OBS Studio and VLC on a computer capable of playing the files and encoding a live stream. OBS’s VLC Video source requires VLC to be installed.
- YouTube eligibility: YouTube says a channel must be verified and have had no live-streaming restrictions in the past 90 days; its current guidance also says streamers must be at least 16. Check the channel’s own status in YouTube Studio because eligibility is account-specific. See YouTube live streaming tips and Get started with live streaming.
Set up the replay playlist in OBS
- Open OBS and choose a scene. Create or select the scene that should appear throughout the event. OBS scenes are combinations of sources; its Sources Guide explains how to add and arrange them.
- Add the replay source. In the Sources box, select + and choose VLC Video Source. If that option is missing, make sure VLC is installed, then restart OBS.
- Load the files in order. Add the replay files to the source playlist and arrange them in the intended sequence. Turn shuffle off so the sessions play in that order. OBS documents VLC-backed playlists and playback options in its Media Sources guide.
- Choose end-of-playlist behavior. Decide whether the list should stop after the final session or loop. For a one-time event, stopping avoids unintentionally replaying the program; enable looping only if another pass is intended. If you want a holding slate between sessions, add it as a separate scene and plan how to switch to it.
- Check the composition and sound. Confirm the video fits the canvas without unwanted cropping or stretching, and listen to the source through OBS. Make sure the chosen scene displays the playlist source and that no unintended desktop audio or microphone is being sent.
Schedule YouTube Live and connect OBS
- Schedule the event. In YouTube Studio, open the Live Control Room and schedule the live stream. A scheduled event can appear as upcoming so viewers can visit the watch page and opt for a reminder. YouTube recommends sharing its link at least 48 hours before the event; see Promote your live stream.
- Copy the ingest details. In the event’s stream settings, copy the YouTube Live server URL and stream key. In OBS, open Settings > Stream, select YouTube or the appropriate custom service option, and enter the details as prompted. YouTube’s encoder guide identifies the server URL and stream key as the information the encoder needs.
- Protect the stream key. Treat it like a password. Do not publish it or include it in a screenshot. If it is exposed, replace or reset it in YouTube Studio before using the event.
- Check the event’s live settings. Confirm the intended visibility, title, description, audience setting, and scheduled time in Studio. Use the event watch page for promotion, not the private ingest details.
Test the whole broadcast before event time
Do not test only the first replay: play through the entire sequence, including the transitions between files and the final file. Confirm in OBS that each item advances in order, the picture is framed correctly, and sound is present at a steady level. Start the encoder and check the incoming preview in Live Control Room before the audience arrives.
- Allow setup time: YouTube recommends setting up encoders at least two hours ahead and starting them at least 15 minutes before the scheduled event. These are recommendations, not guaranteed technical requirements; the extra time lets you catch connection, audio, and playback problems.
- Watch the stream during the event: Monitor the YouTube preview and OBS playback. A file that plays correctly on its own may still reveal a transition, missing audio, or order problem in the full playlist.
- Set expectations for the format: This is a live encoder broadcast of recordings, not a camera-based live event. Tell viewers in the title or description that the program consists of event replays if that is relevant to them.
End the stream and organize the replay
When the final session finishes, stop the OBS stream and end the event in YouTube Studio. YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived, but check the channel’s Live tab afterward to confirm the replay is available. You can then organize the archive and any highlight clips into a YouTube channel playlist, as described in YouTube’s promotion guidance.
Which playlist or handoff feature should you use?
| What you want to do | Use this | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Play local replay files one after another in a single live broadcast | OBS VLC Video source feeding the encoder | Sequences local media for the outgoing live stream; order can be preserved with shuffle off. See OBS Media Sources. |
| Group published videos and completed live archives on your channel | YouTube playlist | Organizes videos after publication; it is not the local-file playback queue for OBS. See YouTube promotion guidance. |
| Send viewers to a Premiere or another live stream when your stream ends | YouTube Live Redirect | Hands viewers off at the end; it does not play a queue of local replay files. The sending creator needs more than 1,000 subscribers and no Community Guidelines strikes. Redirecting viewers to another channel’s live stream also requires that channel’s permission. See YouTube Live Redirect. |
Troubleshooting common problems
VLC Video Source is missing
OBS’s VLC-backed source depends on VLC. Install VLC, close and reopen OBS, then check the Sources menu again.
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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.
- 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.
The files play in the wrong order
Reopen the source properties, arrange the playlist explicitly, and disable shuffle. Test from the first item through the final transition before going live.
Viewers see video but hear no sound
Check that the selected scene contains the VLC source, that the source is not muted in the OBS audio mixer, and that the file itself has an audible track. Listen to the OBS output and verify audio in the Live Control Room preview.
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.)
- 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.
YouTube does not receive the encoder
Check that OBS has the correct server URL and stream key for the scheduled event. Recopy both from the event’s YouTube Studio stream settings and confirm the key was not changed or exposed.
The event cannot be started
Check channel verification and live-stream restrictions in YouTube Studio, along with the account’s age eligibility. YouTube’s current getting-started guidance says streamers must be at least 16; channel eligibility should be checked directly because it is account-specific.
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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.
The archive is missing after the event
Check the channel’s Live tab and the event’s status in Studio. YouTube’s automatic archive guidance applies to streams under 12 hours; do not assume a longer broadcast will be archived automatically.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube channel to keep playing uploaded recordings without leaving OBS and a home computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload the recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It keeps the loop running from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it can recover automatically if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. Start with StreamNeo.
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.
- 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
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
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