The success of live streaming platforms like Twitch has forever changed the way people get their entertainment. This year, 15 million viewers tuned in every day to watch their favorite content creators on that service alone, proving that either live streaming isn’t just for the hardcore geeks anymore, or that geek culture has truly gone mainstream. Either way, the question you have to ask yourself is: Are you ready for your close-up?
Streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube make it easy to hop on with a new account, but it takes a lot more than that to build a successful channel. What really sets a successful streamer apart from day-trippers is the gear—and the ability to use it. Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) has emerged as one of the best ways to turn any bedroom into a pro-level studio, and the Ultimate Live Streaming Guide to OBS Studio is the best way to get up to speed on its capabilities.
Even if you’ve never put a single minute of your own footage on the web, this online course will tell you everything you need to know. Within the first few minutes, you’ll learn how to navigate the OBS interface and maximize its settings to suit your environment. Find out what kind of microphone you need and how to apply effects and overlays, prepping your software with presets so you can become your own sound engineer on the fly.
The entire course takes two hours, by which time you’ll be able to record your first practice video. From there, you’ll know how to feed the real thing into your new Twitch or YouTube Gaming account, or any live streaming platform out there. Whether you’re using OBS Studio on your desktop or mobile, you’ll have figured out a lifetime’s worth of expert tips in one afternoon.
Want to create your own live stream? Take advantage of a special 91 percent discount off lifetime access to the Ultimate Live Streaming Guide to OBS Studio, available to PCMag readers for $15.99.