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To loop multiple music files in a continuous YouTube livestream, install VLC, add OBS’s VLC Video source to a scene, load the tracks as a playlist, and leave Loop Playlist enabled. Connect OBS to YouTube using an encoder stream, check the audio meters, and test the broadcast before relying on it. The stream can continue only while the computer running OBS stays on and connected.
Before you start
- Install OBS and VLC on the computer that will run the broadcast. If you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC; OBS requires matching architecture for the VLC Video source.
- Prepare audio files the software can read and keep them accessible to that computer. OBS lists MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV among the audio formats supported by its built-in Media Source; that does not guarantee every codec or damaged file will work.
- Make sure your YouTube channel is eligible to livestream. YouTube says channels need verification and no live-streaming restriction in the previous 90 days. Check current access and channel status in YouTube Studio, since eligibility and interface details may change.
- Use music you have permission to broadcast on YouTube, including any intended monetization. A track playing locally does not establish broadcast rights. YouTube requires livestreams to comply with its Community Guidelines and Terms of Service.
Sources: OBS VLC Video Source, OBS Media Sources, OBS Quick Start Guide, YouTube Help: Get started with live streaming, and YouTube Terms of Service.
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Choose the right OBS source
| Source | Best for | Playlist and looping | Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media Source | Repeating one local audio or video file | Its Loop option repeats that file; it is not the documented choice for a multi-file playlist. | Built into OBS; supports common audio types including MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV. |
| VLC Video | Playing several files in sequence or shuffle | Supports a playlist and Loop Playlist. Loop is on by default; Shuffle is off by default. | VLC must be installed; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. |
For a playlist of multiple tracks, use VLC Video. OBS documents its Media Source for individual media files and its VLC Video source for playlists.
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Set up the playlist in OBS
- Create or select a scene. In OBS, choose a scene in the Scenes dock, or click the plus button to create one.
- Add the playlist source. In the Sources dock, click the plus button and choose VLC Video. If that option is missing, install VLC and confirm its architecture matches OBS.
- Add your tracks. In the source properties, add the files in the order you want them played. Keep the files on a drive and at paths that will remain available while OBS is running.
- Set playback order and looping. Leave Loop Playlist enabled to restart playback after the last item. Keep Shuffle Playlist off for a fixed sequence; enable it only if you want randomized playback. OBS documents loop on and shuffle off as the defaults, but verify the properties rather than assuming they have not been changed.
- Check visibility behavior. OBS’s documented default is to stop playback when the source is not visible and restart when it becomes visible. Keep the VLC source visible in the live scene, and avoid switching to a scene without it if playback must continue.
OBS’s source controls are documented in its VLC Video Source guide.
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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.
Connect OBS to YouTube
OBS is an encoder-based production option: YouTube describes encoders as a way to stream content with overlays and production equipment. The current YouTube Studio labels and setup steps can change, so follow YouTube’s live-stream setup for your channel rather than relying on an old menu path.
- In YouTube Studio, start the encoder-stream setup and use the stream key and connection details YouTube provides for that broadcast.
- In OBS, open Settings → Stream, select YouTube as the service, and connect using the current method shown by OBS and YouTube. Treat the stream key as a password: do not publish it or include it in a recording or screenshot.
- Review Settings → Output and the video and stream settings against YouTube’s current encoder guidance. Resolution, bitrate, frame rate, and keyframe interval depend on the channel and connection; do not assume a single recipe suits every broadcast.
- Start a short test stream and confirm YouTube receives the broadcast before beginning the longer session.
See YouTube Help: Stream using an encoder for the current platform instructions. YouTube notes that encoders support overlays and other production elements. OBS also recommends a test of a few minutes before a first stream in its Quick Start Guide.
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Elgato 4K S Capture Card for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2 | 4K60 capture, 1440p120 or 1080p240 passthrough, HDR10 support, Near-zero latency, USB-C, Analog audio input
- 4K60 Capture: Record in cinematic quality with crisp detail and vivid colors
- HFR Support: Play and capture in 1440p120 or 1080p240
- HDR10 Support: Capture brilliant HDR content with tone mapping on Windows
- Cross-Platform Compatible: Works with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and more
- Analog Audio In: Capture in-game chat or commentary with 3.5mm input
Check audio before going live
- Start playback in OBS and watch the Audio Mixer. The relevant meter should move when the music plays.
- If the meter is still or the wrong sound is captured, open Settings → Audio and select the intended device. Check that the playlist source itself is active in the mixer.
- Listen to the YouTube test broadcast from another device if possible. Mixer activity confirms OBS is receiving audio; it does not by itself confirm the audience can hear the stream correctly.
OBS covers audio setup and test-stream preparation in its Quick Start Guide.
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Troubleshoot common playlist problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| VLC Video is missing from the source menu | VLC is not installed, or its architecture does not match OBS. | Install VLC; OBS specifies 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS. |
| The playlist stops after the last track | Loop Playlist is off. | Open VLC Video source properties and enable Loop Playlist. |
| Tracks play in an unexpected order | Shuffle Playlist is on or the files were added in a different order. | Turn shuffle off for a fixed sequence and review the playlist entries. |
| No audio reaches OBS | The wrong audio device is selected, or the source is not active. | Watch the Audio Mixer meters, then check Settings → Audio and the source’s mixer activity. |
| Playback stops after changing scenes | The source is no longer visible and its visibility behavior stops playback. | Keep VLC Video visible in the active scene or adjust the source’s Visibility Behaviour in its properties. |
| OBS plays the music but the YouTube stream does not | The encoder connection, stream key, or YouTube broadcast setup may be wrong. | Check YouTube Studio’s current stream status and OBS’s connection details; run another short test before the full broadcast. |
| A track fails to play | The file may be inaccessible, damaged, or encoded in a format the source cannot read. | Confirm the file path and try a known-good file in a documented format. |
Or let it run in the cloud
With OBS, your computer and internet connection have to stay available for the broadcast. StreamNeo is a YouTube-only cloud service for looping uploaded videos: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. Every quality up to 4K 60fps streams as uploaded at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month.
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Capture Card 4K HDMI Video Streaming to USB 3.0 1080P 60FPS Capture Device | Audio Video Capture, 4K HDMI Loop-Out, Work for PS5/PS4/Switch/Xbox/PC/Camera/OBS, Game Screen Recorder Streaming Equipment
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
- Universal Compatibility PS5, Xbox, Switch & More: Stream or record gameplay from virtually any HDMI-enabled device including Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, DSLR cameras, and PCs. The video capture card for gaming supports seamless passthrough so you can play without lag while your audience watches every frame in real time
- Low-Latency Performance for Smooth Streaming: This capture card for streaming minimizes delay between gameplay and broadcast, so you get reliable, low-latency capture that works well for competitive gaming, live broadcasts, and podcast sessions. Suitable for those building their channel with high-quality, engaging content
- Compact & Portable Design for Content Creators: Lightweight and portable, this USB 3.0 capture card works well for creators who travel or switch gaming setups often. Throw it in your bag and stream or record wherever you are, at home, events, LAN parties, streaming or studio sessions
Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free first day.
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4K Capture Card Game Capture Card 1080P 60FPS for Streaming
- 【Full HD Video Capture Card】The capture card captures video and audio simultaneously, transmits the signal to your computer for preview or storage, and shares the video output to the screen. The capture card supports up to 4K30Hz input and Full HD 1080p60fps video capture, high-speed transmission without delay. Suitable for streaming media, video conferencing, game live streaming and other use scenarios
- 【3.5MM Microphone Input and Headphone Output】You can connect the capture card for streaming to a headphone connection with a 3.5.mm audio output port, and you can also connect the capture card to a 3.5mm microphone so you can easily stream sound and record your voice through the port. You can also use it to freely add external commentary while playing games. Note: Do not use a hub or USB extension cable, the USB port of the product must be connected to the USB 3.0 port of your computer for use
- 【HD 1080P 60fps Signal Loop-Out】The Hi-Speed USB 3.0 port of the capturadora de video para streaming provides 1080P60FPS video signal and excellent low-latency technology, allowing you to transmit live streams to Switch/Potplayer/VLC/Twitter/OBS more easily.The output port can provide up to 1080P60Hz output resolution, outputting a clean and clear image quality with no latency. image quality with no latency. Note: Maximum output is 1080P60Hz only
- 【Wide range of compatibility】This game capture card utilizes an advanced chip for compatibility with PC, PS5, PS4, X-box, Switch, DVD, DSLR, camcorder, webcam and more. Suitable for operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Ma-c OS. High-speed transmission without delay, record wonderful moments and enjoy good times. No need to install driver or external power supply, the device will automatically recognize as webcam when plugged in, detect the input and adjust the output automatically
- 【Our Service】After purchasing the switch capture card capturadora, you will receive: 1 x Capture Card, 1 x USB 3.0 Cable, 1 x User Manual. Service: 1. One year warranty service; 2. Professional technical assistance
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