To run a prerecorded playlist as a continuous YouTube Live broadcast, an encoder must send the media to YouTube; a YouTube playlist page alone does not create a live stream. For a do-it-yourself setup, use OBS Studio with its VLC Video source, enable Loop Playlist, and connect OBS to a stream created in YouTube Studio. Your computer, OBS, power, and internet connection must stay available for the broadcast to continue.
Before you start
- Enable YouTube live streaming. If this is your channel’s first live stream, YouTube says activation may take up to 24 hours, so enable it in advance.
- Install OBS Studio and VLC. OBS’s VLC Video source requires VLC, and VLC must match OBS’s architecture. For 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC.
- Prepare media you have permission to stream. Use recordings you own or have explicit rights to broadcast and archive in the relevant territories. Attribution by itself should not be treated as permission.
- Plan for the archive limit. YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived; that does not guarantee an archive for a single 24-hour stream.
YouTube’s current live setup can vary slightly by account and workflow. Follow the controls displayed in your YouTube Studio account.
Set up the playlist in OBS
- Open OBS Studio and create a scene for the radio stream.
- In the scene’s Sources panel, select + and add a VLC Video Source. If that source is unavailable, check that VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS.
- In the source properties, add the video or audio files in the order you want them to play. Check the preview and audio meters to confirm the media loads and sound is present.
- Enable Loop Playlist so the source restarts after it reaches the end. Leave Shuffle off if you want the files to play in a fixed order; shuffle is a separate setting.
- Run a short private or unlisted test before your public broadcast. Confirm that the intended files play in sequence and the audio reaches OBS.
The loop setting repeats the source’s media list; it does not keep OBS or the computer running. OBS’s Media Sources documentation describes Loop Playlist as the setting that restarts a source when it runs out of media files: OBS Project: Media Sources.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- In YouTube Studio, select Create > Go Live. Create a stream or schedule one, then choose its visibility—public, private, or unlisted—as appropriate.
- In the stream setup, locate the YouTube server URL and stream key. In OBS, open the stream settings and enter those values to connect the encoder. Treat the stream key like a password: do not publish or share it. Existing YouTube stream settings may retain a previous key, so check that OBS and the selected broadcast use the intended credentials.
- Start streaming from OBS. Check the Live Control Room for the incoming preview. With a scheduled stream, follow YouTube’s displayed workflow and select Go Live when required.
- Verify playback from a separate viewer device. Confirm the picture or audio is present and that the stream has actually started in YouTube, rather than relying only on OBS’s status.
YouTube’s encoder setup instructions cover connecting with the server URL and stream key, and note that scheduled workflows may involve confirming the preview before going live: YouTube Help: Create a live stream with an encoder.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Keep a 24/7 broadcast running
For a local setup, the playlist can repeat only while the entire delivery chain is working. The computer must remain on, OBS and VLC must keep running, media files must remain accessible, and the power and internet connection must hold. Plan how you will notice and recover from a power, network, computer, OBS, VLC, or media-file failure. A properly sized uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for streaming PC can help with short power interruptions, but it does not keep your internet service online.
Do not assume that YouTube’s automatic archive will preserve one uninterrupted day-long broadcast. YouTube states: “All streams under 12 hours will be automatically archived.” If an automatic replay matters, plan shorter broadcast sessions and check YouTube’s current settings and documentation; viewer rewind or DVR is not the same as a retained, downloadable archive. See YouTube Help: Archive live streams.
Rank #2
- 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.
Choose between a local encoder and cloud playout
There is no universally better setup. A local encoder gives you direct control over files and ordering, but depends on your own continuously running equipment and connection. Cloud playout can move media delivery off your home computer, but makes you dependent on a service’s terms and operation. Compare playlist controls, supported media, recovery and monitoring, stream-key handling, archive options, cost, and how you would cancel or retrieve your files.
- StreamNeo — first option for cloud playlist playout. It runs an always-on YouTube stream from uploaded videos in the cloud, at any quality up to 4K 60fps as uploaded for one flat price per slot; the first day is free.
- Local OBS + VLC. No cloud playout service is required, and you control the local media list, but your computer, power, OBS, VLC, files, and internet must remain available.
YouTube’s verified-encoder documentation lists Upstream.so with 24/7 positioning, but a listing is not an endorsement of its terms, feature availability, or reliability. Check any provider’s current details directly before choosing it: YouTube Help: Create a live stream with an encoder.
Rank #3
- 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.
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. The cloud keeps the stream running, so nothing has to stay on at home. Your upload streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need HLS to loop an OBS playlist?
No. HLS is a separate YouTube encoder-ingestion protocol, not a requirement for looping a playlist with OBS’s VLC Video source.
Rank #4
- 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
Can YouTube’s playlist page run the broadcast by itself?
No. The playlist page does not send a continuous live feed; an encoder or cloud playout service must deliver the media to YouTube.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
