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To record a microphone, game, voice chat, or music on separate audio tracks in OBS, capture each source separately, assign it to the tracks you want in Audio Mixer → Advanced Audio Properties, then enable those tracks in Settings → Output. For a file that should also play normally in standard video players, keep a complete mix on track 1: OBS notes that “all standard video players will only play back one audio track at a time.”
Choose the routing method that fits your setup
First decide whether you need editable isolated tracks for post-production or a finished mix that plays as expected without editing. The method for getting audio into OBS depends on your operating system, OBS version, and whether the target app can be captured directly.
| Method | Best fit | Trade-off or check |
|---|---|---|
| Separate OBS sources and track assignment | Audio already available as distinct application or device sources | Assign sources to tracks, then separately enable those tracks for recording. OBS Multiple Audio Track Recording Guide |
| Application Audio Capture on Windows | Isolating supported apps on Windows 10 version 2004 or later, or Windows 11 | Disable global Desktop Audio to avoid echo; some apps may require virtual routing. OBS Application Audio Capture Guide |
| Virtual audio cable | An app that does not work with direct application capture | Requires routing the app to a virtual device and capturing that device in OBS. OBS documents VB-CABLE for Windows. OBS Application Audio Capture Guide |
| Native macOS audio capture | OBS Studio 30 on macOS 13 Ventura or later, as described by OBS | Check your OBS and macOS versions; other configurations may need another route. OBS macOS Desktop Audio Capture Guide |
| External mixer software, such as Wave Link | Users already routing sources through that ecosystem | Capture its virtual outputs in OBS and assign them to tracks; it is not required for basic track separation. Elgato Wave Link guide |
Choose tracks for editing or playback
- For editing: Put each source you want to adjust independently on its own track. You can also assign all sources to a combined mix track for convenience.
- For ordinary playback: Include a complete mix on track 1. OBS warns that standard video players play back only one audio track at a time, so a file containing only separate tracks may not sound like a full mix in those players.
Set up separate recording tracks in OBS
- List the sources to isolate. For example, choose microphone, game, voice chat, and music. Decide whether you also want a combined mix.
- Add or capture each source separately. Add the relevant audio devices or application sources in OBS. On supported Windows systems, use Application Audio Capture for apps you want to isolate. OBS’s documented support is Windows 10 version 2004 or later and Windows 11. When using application-level sources, disable the global Desktop Audio source to avoid capturing the same sound twice and creating echo. See the OBS Application Audio Capture Guide.
- Assign sources to tracks. In the OBS Audio Mixer, open Advanced Audio Properties. For each source, check the boxes for the tracks it should feed. A common editing layout is a complete mix on track 1 and selected isolated sources on additional tracks. The exact assignments depend on what you need to edit.
- Enable recording tracks. Open Settings → Output and enable the tracks you want included in the recording. Assigning a source to a track and enabling that track for recording are separate steps.
- Make a short verification recording. Speak into the mic, play the game, and activate any voice-chat or music source. Open the recording in the editor you plan to use and confirm that the tracks contain the intended sources. Also check playback in an ordinary player if the file needs to be usable without editing.
OBS’s Multiple Audio Track Recording Guide covers source assignment and recording-track selection. The guide was published July 14, 2023; check the current OBS interface if labels differ in your installed release.
Route an app OBS cannot capture directly
If an application is missing from Application Audio Capture or its output is incompatible, OBS documents a Windows virtual-cable fallback using VB-CABLE. Device names matter: the app sends audio to CABLE Input, while OBS captures CABLE Output.
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#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- 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.
- Install and configure the virtual audio cable following its own instructions.
- In the Windows Volume Mixer, set the target application’s output device to CABLE Input.
- In OBS, add an audio input source and select CABLE Output.
- Use the OBS mixer to assign that captured source to the recording track you want, and ensure the track is enabled in Settings → Output.
- Record a short test and confirm the app is isolated on the intended track.
See the OBS Application Audio Capture Guide for its documented routing steps. A virtual device adds setup complexity, so use it only when direct capture is unsuitable.
Audio capture options on macOS
OBS says that OBS Studio 30 on macOS 13 Ventura and higher can use the macOS Audio Capture Source. The same guide also describes virtual-device routing and names Loopback and Sound Siphon for per-application routing. Confirm that the OBS and macOS versions you use match the method before configuring it; see the OBS macOS Desktop Audio Capture Guide.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 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.
Common problems and fixes
- The recording has no sound on one or more tracks: Check both sides of the setup: the source’s track boxes in Advanced Audio Properties and the enabled recording tracks in Settings → Output.
- Desktop or app sound is doubled or echoes: When using Windows Application Audio Capture, turn off the global Desktop Audio source as OBS advises, then make another short test recording.
- A standard player does not combine the isolated tracks: That is expected for many standard video players. Add a complete mix to track 1 if the recording must play correctly without opening it in an editor.
- An application does not appear in direct capture or is incompatible: Use the virtual audio cable route documented by OBS, if appropriate for your system, and verify the CABLE Input/CABLE Output direction.
- The macOS capture option is unavailable: Check whether your setup meets the documented combination—OBS Studio 30 and macOS 13 Ventura or later—or use a suitable virtual-device route described in the OBS guide.
Or let it run in the cloud
Selective recording in OBS is for making a recording with controllable audio tracks. If your separate goal is to keep a pre-recorded video live on a YouTube channel, StreamNeo is a different workflow: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not stream from a camera.
- Upload your video or create a playlist.
- Add your YouTube stream key once.
- Go live; StreamNeo keeps the video looping from the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on.
Every slot streams the uploaded file as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers. It includes 10 GB storage per slot, pooled across active slots, 24/7 looping and playlists, automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream, and StreamNeo team support. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Billing options are daily, weekly, monthly, six months, or yearly; cancel any time. UPI and cards are accepted in India, and card checkout is available worldwide. Contact support for five or more slots.
The Tool Desk
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Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- 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.
Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, then start your free day.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 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
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- 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
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