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To rotate prerecorded videos in a YouTube live stream, add them to an OBS Studio VLC Video source, arrange the playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. You need VLC installed for that source to appear. This automates playback; it does not keep a stream connected through a computer, power, app, or internet failure.
What you need before setting up the playlist
- OBS Studio installed on the computer that will send the stream.
- VLC media player installed so OBS can offer its VLC Video source. Match the VLC architecture to OBS: 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
- The prerecorded video files you want to rotate, available locally to the computer.
- A YouTube channel enabled for live streaming. YouTube says first-time activation may take up to 24 hours, so enable it before the time you intend to go live. YouTube’s encoder setup guide
Set up an automatically repeating video playlist in OBS
- Add the playlist source. In the OBS scene you will stream, add a VLC Video source. If it is missing, install VLC and restart OBS; check that both programs are 64-bit or both are 32-bit.
- Add and order your videos. In the source properties, add the local files to the playlist and arrange them in the order you want. The VLC Video source also offers a shuffle option if you prefer randomized playback.
- Turn on looping. Enable Loop Playlist. OBS documents this option as on by default; confirm its state in the source properties rather than assuming it is enabled. Once the final item finishes, the playlist starts again.
- Check playback before going live. Verify that the first video appears and its audio plays in the OBS preview. If you use visibility behavior, network caching, or audio-track settings in the VLC source, check those options against your scene and files.
- Connect OBS to YouTube. In YouTube Studio, create or select a live stream and retrieve its server URL and stream key. In OBS stream settings, select YouTube if that option is available; otherwise enter the server URL and stream key provided by YouTube.
- Start the encoder. Start streaming in OBS, then check the live preview and status in YouTube Studio. Keep an eye on both the playlist and the connection.
OBS describes the VLC source’s Loop Playlist setting as restarting the source when it has run out of media files, with the setting on by default. OBS Project: Media Sources
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For one video, use Media Source instead
If you only need one prerecorded clip to repeat, add OBS’s built-in Media Source and enable its Loop option. Use VLC Video when you need a list of clips, an ordered rotation, or playlist shuffle; use Media Source when a single file is enough.
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What playlist looping does—and does not—guarantee
Looping automates which file plays next. It does not guarantee a continuous 24/7 broadcast. The OBS source can repeat its media, but it cannot by itself recover from a computer shutdown, power loss, OBS crash, or network outage. Those failures interrupt the encoder connection and require a separate recovery plan.
#1 Best Overall
ZowieBox, 4K HDMI NDI Video Encoder/Decoder, HDMI NDI | Native NDI HX3, UVC to HDMI, Pass-Through Video Capture, SRT/RTMP(S)/RTSP, Live Streaming
- Compact but Powerful Design: ZowieBox is smaller than a phone, featuring a tally light and LCD screen for streaming status. Capture console gameplay in up to 4K with zero-lag HDMI passthrough, while the built-in video encoder converts video for IP streaming. The IP stream can also be decoded back to a 4K HDMI signal.
- Standalone Game Streaming: Just plug and play—ZowieBox enables PC-free live gaming without affecting gameplay. As an RTMP hardware encoder and HDMI streamer, it delivers stable streaming directly from your source, making it ideal for gaming, live events, and professional broadcasting.
- NDI|HX3 Converter Technology: ZowieBox converts HDMI signals to NDI|HX3/HX2/HX, functioning as an NDI video encoder, or NDI Video Decoder for flexible IP workflows. Certified NDI technology enables low-latency gameplay streaming through OBS/vMix. Note: Encoder and decoder modes cannot run simultaneously; full NDI signals are not supported.
- UVC to HDMI Conversion: Supporting up to 4K@30fps and 1080p@60fps decoding, ZowieBox enables flexible conversion for webcam and video workflows. As a video decoder and HDMI to IP converter, it expands connectivity options for professional video devices. Note: USB capture card functionality is not currently supported.
- All-around Configuration Options: Control ZowieBox through its web UI on a PC, phone, or tablet. Manage connected PTZ cameras, tally light, video/audio, OSD, work mode, streams, network, and system settings. Support for VISCA over IP encoder workflows enables flexible PTZ control, while the dashboard provides video preview and system status.
YouTube’s encoder help says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. That guidance does not promise that a longer continuous stream will be archived. Plan your broadcast and any recordings around that limit rather than assuming a 24/7 event will produce a complete archive. YouTube Help: Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder
Choose the right connection method
For a typical OBS-to-YouTube setup, use the server URL and stream key shown for your stream in YouTube Studio. HLS is a separate ingestion workflow, not a set of settings to apply to every OBS stream. YouTube’s HLS guidance specifies HTTPS POST/PUT, TS segments lasting 1–4 seconds, no byte ranges, and a rolling playlist with no more than five outstanding segments. YouTube also says HLS has higher latency than RTMP because it sends segments rather than a continuous stream. YouTube Help: Set up an HLS stream
Rank #2
UNISHEEN 1080P60 HDMI Video Encoder, H.265/H.264 Live Streaming Encoder, HDMI to RTSP/RTMP/SRT/HLS/WebRTC IPTV Encoder for YouTube Facebook Live, Browser Setup, No PC Software Needed
- 【Hardware H.265/H.264 Encoding at 1080P60】Dedicated hardware encoder delivers broadcast-quality 1080P60 streams with H.265/H.264 compression. Reduces bandwidth usage by up to 50% compared to legacy H.264-only solutions, while maintaining crisp, crystal-clear video output.
- 【Broad Protocol Support for IP Distribution】 Supports SRT, RTMP(S), RTSP, UDP, HTTP, HLS, WebRTC, TRTC, Icecast and SHOUTcast — integrate seamlessly with CDNs, surveillance NVRs, IPTV systems and browser-based monitoring dashboards. One device replaces multiple single-purpose streaming boxes.
- 【Browser-Based Setup in Minutes】 Set up in minutes through any browser — no software, drivers or OS compatibility issues. DHCP is enabled by default to prevent IP address conflicts on your network. Note: basic networking knowledge (IP address, RTSP/RTMP configuration) is recommended for advanced streaming setups.
- 【Compact Design with Flexible Deployment】Palm-sized form factor (approx. 90×54×29mm) fits easily behind monitors, on shelves, or in equipment racks. Low power consumption ensures reliable 24/7 operation for live events, remote monitoring, and digital signage.
- 【Professional Audio & OSD Overlay + 1-Year Warranty】 Supports HDMI embedded audio plus external 3.5mm input. Built-in OSD generator adds scrolling text, logos, or timestamps directly to the video stream — ideal for branding, event info, or security labeling. Backed by a 1-year warranty and 24/7 online technical support.
The YouTube API documentation describes HLS delivery as one encoded stream with muxed audio and video, sent over HTTPS using a persistent connection. These HLS-specific requirements matter if you build or configure an HLS encoder; they are not generic OBS playlist settings. Google for Developers: Delivering Live YouTube Content via HLS
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Common problems and fixes
- VLC Video is missing in OBS: Install VLC, then restart OBS. If it remains unavailable, check that VLC and OBS have matching architectures; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
- The playlist stops at the last file: Open the VLC Video source properties and enable Loop Playlist. OBS lists it as on by default, but the actual source setting is what determines behavior.
- A clip does not appear or play as expected: Confirm that the file is accessible on the streaming computer and inspect the source preview before going live. Verify the playlist entry and audio-track settings if the picture or sound is missing.
- YouTube does not accept the connection: Confirm that live streaming is enabled on the channel and that OBS has the current server URL and stream key for the selected stream. First-time activation may take up to 24 hours.
- The stream disconnects while the playlist keeps playing: Playlist looping is not connection recovery. Check the computer, power, OBS, and internet connection, then re-establish the encoder connection in YouTube Studio and OBS.
- You expect a complete archive from a continuous broadcast: YouTube’s stated automatic-archive guidance covers streams under 12 hours; it does not establish archiving for longer streams.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want the prerecorded playlist to keep running without leaving a computer on at home, StreamNeo is a YouTube-only cloud option: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It keeps the stream running from the cloud, supports uploaded video at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 1
Bestseller No. 3
Best Value
ORIVISION H.265/264/MJPEG Ultra Mini HDMI 1080P Video Encoder with HDMI loopout, HTTP, RTSP, RTMP/RTMPS, SRT, HLS, FLV, Compatible with ONVIF, Multicast IPTV Encoder for YouTube Facebook Twitch Live
- 【Local Recording & Video Cropping – EH1211 Exclusive Features】 This mini HDMI video encoder supports local recording to USB drive or TF card – it can record both RTSP streaming video and direct HDMI input to external storage. The built-in video cropping function lets you customize the encoding region, making it easy to adapt input to needed displays or focus on specific areas. With its space-saving design, EH1211 is ideal for classrooms, conference rooms, and digital signage installations.
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- 【1080P@30HZ Input/Output Resolution & 2 Channel Output】- HDMI encoder supports max 1080P@30 resolution HD input and output. The video encoder for live broadcasting can output 2 channels feeds at the same time. While only 1 channel can reach 1080p output. The H.265/ H.264 encoder supports multiple different protocol feeds output at the same time, but does not support simultaneous output 1080P30.
- 【Multi-Protocols & Software & Platform & Flip Supporting】- Hardware encoder supports protocols including HTTP/HTTPS/RTSP/RTMP/RTMPS/SRT/UDP/RTP/FLS/FLV,is compatible with Onvif protocol. Multicast UDP/RTP. HDMI video encoder supports software like Flashplayer, OBS, VLC player, Vmix..etc. Fit for Youtube, Facebook, Ustream, Livestream, Twitch, Vimeo, Streamspot, Dacast, Tikilive, Netrmedi, etc. This video encoder also supports new function of image rotation and mirror flip. More convenient for live broadcasting.
- 【Powerful OSD Setting】- OSD setting function of the live broadcasting encoder makes it easy for you to add any self-defined text, time and image overlay on your video when output displayed. You may add any text/logo at any position to announce your copyrights with this hevc video encoder.
Rank #4
HEVC MPEG4 H.265 H.264 HDMI to IP Network Video Encoder, 1080P HD Digital Video Audio Encoder Hardware Supports RTSP RTMPS UDP HLS SRT, for IPTV, Live Streaming, YouTube, Facebook, OBS, NVR, etc.
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265/H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 1920x1080 resolution input and output, achieving 60fps high-definition presentation with realistic and delicate color reproduction and lossless detail. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI high-definition video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and high-definition content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
Rank #3
URayCoder HD HEVC H.265 MPEG4 H.264 4K HDMI to Video Streaming IPTV Encoder for HDMI to RTSP RTMP HTTP UDP HLS SRT Facebook YouTube Live Streaming Server
- 【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- 【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- 【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- 【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- 【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
Monthly: $9.99 per month
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