Recommended Free Tools
Larix Broadcaster is documented for sending mobile live video to YouTube, not for selecting and playing a prerecorded playlist. To stream a playlist, use an encoder with a documented local-media playlist feature—such as OBS Media Source—then send that encoder’s output to YouTube Live. Larix can be useful for mobile live capture, but the official materials reviewed do not establish it as the playlist player in this setup.
Can Larix Broadcaster play a prerecorded playlist?
Softvelum documents Larix Broadcaster for mobile live capture and RTMP/RTMPS publishing. Its reviewed product and help pages do not document choosing a list of local prerecorded files as the input. That is a limit of what those pages establish, not proof that no device-specific integration or workaround exists. See Larix Broadcaster and its documentation for current product details.
For the playlist itself, OBS Media Source documents local media files and playlist controls, including ordering and shuffle. In this workflow, OBS plays the files and encodes the live program; YouTube receives the encoder feed. Check playback and codec compatibility in your installed OBS version before going live. The supported local formats listed by OBS include MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM. See OBS Media Sources.
| Approach | Playlist input | YouTube output | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larix Broadcaster | Prerecorded playlist input is not documented in the reviewed official material. | Softvelum documents RTMP/RTMPS publishing and a YouTube server/key pattern. | Mobile live camera capture and contribution. |
| Computer encoder with OBS Media Source | OBS documents local files and playlist controls. | Send the encoder output using the server URL and stream key from YouTube Studio. | Playing a prerecorded playlist as the live program. |
Set up a prerecorded playlist with OBS and YouTube Live
- Prepare the media. Put the clips in a known order and check that each file plays with its audio in your installed OBS build. In OBS, add a Media Source for local media and use its playlist controls to add and order files; choose shuffle only if you want playback order randomized. Test transitions and the end-of-list behavior before the broadcast.
- Create or schedule the YouTube stream. In YouTube Studio, open Live Control Room and create a stream, or select a stream you already configured. First-time live-stream enablement may take up to 24 hours, according to YouTube’s encoder help; enable it ahead of your planned start.
- Copy the ingest details. From the selected stream in YouTube Studio, copy its server URL and stream key into the encoder’s streaming settings. YouTube’s guide says to enter those values in the encoder, then start sending; the preview appears in Live Control Room. For a scheduled stream, review the preview and click Go live there when ready. Treat the stream key as private and use the exact current values shown for that stream. See YouTube’s live-stream setup guide.
- Choose compatible encoder settings. YouTube recommends RTMPS for secure ingest. Its general guidance lists H.264 video, AAC or MP3 audio, constant bitrate, frame rates up to 60 fps, and a recommended two-second keyframe interval that should not exceed four seconds. Match the available OBS settings to the current YouTube encoder recommendations; these are YouTube’s recommendations, not a guarantee that every device or app exposes each option.
- Start and verify the feed. Start streaming from OBS, then check the YouTube Live Control Room preview for the expected picture and sound before making the event public. Softvelum’s Larix YouTube example uses video plus audio; it does not establish a video-only or audio-only playlist workflow. See Softvelum’s Grove guide.
- End the broadcast cleanly. Stop the encoder and end the event in Live Control Room as appropriate. YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived; do not rely on that behavior for longer broadcasts.
Where Larix fits if you still want to use it
Larix is a mobile publishing app: Softvelum lists iOS and Android support and documents RTMP publishing, including SSL support for RTMPS. Its product page lists iOS 16.0 and Android 7.0 compatibility; check the current app listing for device requirements because availability can change. The reviewed Softvelum documentation gives rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2 as an example YouTube server address and describes a stream-key publishing pattern. Use the current URL and key from YouTube Studio rather than treating that example as a permanent endpoint.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#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.
For the requested prerecorded playlist, do not assume Larix can load and sequence the local files. Use OBS or another encoder whose installed version explicitly supports local media playlists. If you use Larix for a separate mobile camera contribution, configure its YouTube connection with the server details from Studio and include both video and audio as in Softvelum’s documented example.
Troubleshooting the playlist-to-YouTube feed
- YouTube shows no preview: Confirm OBS is actively sending, then recheck that the selected stream’s server URL and stream key were copied exactly. If live streaming has only just been enabled on the channel, activation can take up to 24 hours.
- Preview appears, but the scheduled event is not live: A scheduled stream may require you to click Go live in Live Control Room after reviewing the preview.
- Video plays without sound: Check that the source file has an audio track, that the Media Source is not muted, and that the encoder is sending AAC or MP3 audio as supported by YouTube’s current guidance. Softvelum’s documented Larix example is video-plus-audio, not a documented silent playlist mode.
- A clip is missing, black, or will not play: Confirm its file path and test that format and codec in the installed OBS build. OBS’s list of common file containers does not guarantee that every codec inside every file will decode on every system.
- Video is rejected or unstable: Compare the encoder’s codec, bitrate mode, frame rate, keyframe interval, and ingest protocol with YouTube’s current recommendations. Prefer RTMPS where your encoder supports it.
- Larix does not show a playlist option: That matches the reviewed official documentation, which describes mobile live publishing rather than prerecorded playlist selection. Route local files through a playlist-capable encoder instead.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is an always-on YouTube stream of uploaded videos, StreamNeo is an alternative to keeping a computer running: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. The cloud continues looping the uploaded videos while your computer is off.
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.
- Nothing has to stay powered on at home.
- Each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- It automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card (one free day per account).
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
StreamNeo plays uploaded videos and streams to YouTube; it is not a mobile camera encoder. Start the free day on StreamNeo.
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.
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
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.
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.
