Elevate Your Audio Quality in OBS by Installing VST Plugins --- Introducing Recommended VST Plugins
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Elevate Your Audio Quality in OBS with VST Plugins
Interested in enhancing your audio quality in OBS? By integrating VST plugins, you can achieve superior sound quality that the default audio filters in OBS alone cannot provide. High-quality microphone audio is crucial not only for gaming and casual streaming but also for singing and ASMR broadcasts, captivating your audience with impressive sound. Moreover, using professional-grade paid VST plugins allows you to fine-tune your audio just like the pros, creating a pleasant listening experience for your viewers. Employ professional tools to mimic expert audio adjustments and make precise tweaks. Implement audio quality-adjusting VST plugins to offer a unique streaming experience that sets you apart from other broadcasters.
Key Points to Consider When Installing VST Plugins
Extensions per Device
Not all VST plugins can be installed on any device. Be aware of the following to avoid installation failures:
- Download the installer that matches your device
- For Windows, check whether it is for 32-bit or 64-bit systems
- Some VST plugins do not come with an installer
Being mindful of these points during the download will prevent improper installations, which can lead to bugs and malfunctions. Check your PC’s version before installation. If there’s no installer for a VST plugin, you might need to install it manually, so knowing this process can be handy.
Manual Installation of VST Plugins (Windows)
You will need to move the ".dll" data directly to the specified folder. When downloading for Windows, ensure the file extension is ".dll". If the extension is not ".dll", the plugin may not function properly. After downloading a free plugin, move it to the following folder:
Local Disk (C:)→Program Files→VSTPlugins
If there is no VSTPlugins folder in Program Files, you can create one by typing "VSTPlugins" exactly, using copy-paste to ensure accuracy.
Manual Installation of VST Plugins (Mac)
Similar to Windows, you will need to move the data to a specified folder on a Mac. The extension for Mac is ".vst". Make sure not to download a plugin with a different extension. After downloading a free plugin, move it to the following folder:
Macintosh HD→Library→Audio→Plug-Ins→VST
This completes the installation process for VST plugins.
Launching VST Plugins in OBS
Once the VST plugins are successfully installed, they will appear in OBS. Here’s how to check if the installation succeeded: Start OBS, click the gear icon on your microphone, and open "Filters".
Open "Filters", and in the pop-out window, click the "+" at the bottom left and open "VST 2.x Plugin".
This will add a "VST 2.x Plugin". If the VST plugin was installed correctly, you should be able to select its name in the "Please select plug-in" section.
Click "Open plugin interface" to adjust settings for each plugin.
Free VST Plugins for OBS
Here are some free VST plugins that can enhance the quality of your streams in OBS, categorized by their effects on microphone audio:
- Compressor
- Noise Filter
- Equalizer
- Limiter
- Reverb
- Exciter
- Voice Changer
Free VST Compressor for OBS
Compressors reduce the volume of sounds that exceed a certain level. Simply put, they prevent audio clipping when loud noises are made. A recommended free VST compressor is "MJUCjr".
"MJUCjr" can be adjusted by controlling just four features: "COMPRESS", "MAKE-UP", "TIME CONSTANTS", and "POWER". Despite having only four controls, it offers wide-ranging adjustments that can be tailored to the volume levels your microphone captures. Other compressor VST plugins like "SAFECompressor" and "LoudMax" can also be suitable depending on your setup.
Free VST Noise Filter for OBS
Noise filters remove unwanted static noises, such as hissing, that occur when a microphone is connected, which can significantly lower the quality of a broadcast. A recommended VST noise filter is "Reafir standalone".
The advantage of "Reafir standalone" is its ability to automatically eliminate noise. By setting the "Mode" to "Subtract", it detects and removes noise frequencies, allowing for easy noise reduction even for those not tech-savvy.
Reafir standalone Official Website
Free VST Equalizer for OBS
Equalizers adjust the volume of specific frequency bands. If you have a deeper voice that is hard to hear, using an equalizer can make your voice clearer. A recommended VST equalizer is "TDR Nova".
"TDR Nova" allows you to adjust your audio while visually monitoring frequencies, making it easy to enhance voice clarity. Another equalizer, "DeeEQ", is also available and can be chosen based on the natural frequency of your voice.
Free VST Limiter for OBS
Limiters set a maximum volume threshold, eliminating sounds that exceed this limit. Unlike compressors, limiters completely remove excessive loud sounds, ensuring there is no audio clipping during your stream. A recommended VST limiter is "W1 Limiter".
"W1 Limiter" is notable for its minimal sound degradation, designed with the ethos of high-quality paid plugins, making it ideal for those concerned with maintaining audio fidelity during their broadcasts.
Free VST Reverb for OBS
Reverb plugins add an echo effect similar to what is heard in karaoke, enhancing the audio atmosphere of your broadcasts. If you wish to add echo to your microphone's audio, "Space Knob" is an excellent choice due to its simplicity. It features a single knob for adjusting the size of the reverb, making it straightforward for on-the-fly adjustments. For more intricate control over the reverb quality, consider "OrilRiver" or "ValhallaSupermassive", which offer more detailed adjustments compared to "Space Knob".
Free VST Exciter for OBS
Exciters amplify and accentuate high frequencies, making the sound appear more forward and sparkling. While not essential for every stream, exciters can significantly enhance the quality of music broadcasts. Recommended free VST exciters include "Fresh Air – Slate Digital Exciter" and "La Petite Excite", both of which are user-friendly and available at no cost.
Fresh Air – Slate Digital Official Website
La Petite Excite Official Website
Free VST Voice Changer for OBS
Voice changers are seldom used in standard broadcasts but can add a fun element when using effects. A recommended VST voice changer is "Graillon2", available in both free and paid versions. For streaming purposes, the free version is sufficient to produce entertaining audio effects.
Paid VST Plugins for OBS
If you're looking to enhance both functionality and quality in OBS, consider investing in paid VST plugins. While there's a cost, these plugins offer targeted solutions that reach the areas most needed.
Voice De-noise
If you're installing a noise filter, "Voice De-noise" is highly recommended. Used by audio editing professionals, this plugin is reputable and effective. The cost is approximately 10,000 yen.
HoRNetThirtyOne
For those seeking an automated equalizer adjustment, "HoRNetThirtyOne" is an excellent choice, offering high usability at a price of €20.99, roughly 3,000 yen.
DeeTrimCast
"DeeTrimCast" is ideal for those needing to adjust gain with almost no latency, specifically developed for streaming. Its ease of use is a key benefit, priced at 2,500 yen (excluding tax).
Autoformer
If you require a compressor that offers minimal latency and high usability, "Autoformer" is a must-have. Priced at 99 euros, roughly 15,000 yen, it is essential for those focused on high-quality audio.
Starting with a Noise Filter in OBS
When streaming with OBS, noise is almost inevitable, especially with lower-quality microphones or highly sensitive ones that pick up ambient sounds. Leaving the noise untreated while applying filters can result in unpleasant residual noise. Therefore, starting with a noise filter is advisable. However, the default noise suppression in OBS can degrade the sound quality. Testing VST plugins with a noise filter first makes it easier to build your OBS setup. Adjust settings while streaming to ensure your voice does not become muffled or inaudible.
Find the Right VST Plugin for You
OBS VST plugins offer extensive customization and are essential for enhancing the quality of your broadcasts. However, even the highest-quality plugins are useless without the knowledge to adjust them properly. Incorrect settings can not only be a waste of money but also cause OBS to run slower and potentially prevent audio from playing at all. Additionally, the necessity of certain VST plugins greatly depends on whether your microphone quality is high or low, and whether you're gaming, casually chatting, or singing. The VST plugins introduced here are generally suitable for any broadcast audio setup. Tailor your choice of plugins to your specific streaming environment and find the best VST plugin for your needs.