Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
For one podcast episode, add an OBS Media Source and turn on Loop. For several local episodes, add a VLC Video source, put the files in the order you want, and enable Loop Playlist. VLC must be installed, and its architecture must match OBS. Then connect OBS to YouTube with the stream URL and key from YouTube Studio’s Live Control Room.
Choose the right OBS source
| What you want to play | OBS source | Setting to repeat playback |
|---|---|---|
| One local episode file | Media Source | Loop |
| Several local episode files | VLC Video | Loop Playlist |
A loop repeats media inside OBS; it does not keep the computer, network, encoder, or YouTube broadcast running unattended. The options below cover playback setup and YouTube connection separately.
Set up a single episode or a playlist
Loop one episode with Media Source
- In OBS, select or create the scene that should display the podcast.
- In the Sources panel, select + and add Media Source.
- Choose the local episode file in the source properties.
- Enable Loop. OBS also documents a setting to restart playback when the source becomes active; its default is on.
- Select OK and check that the episode’s video and audio appear in the scene.
Play multiple episodes with VLC Video
- Install VLC if it is not already installed. OBS says VLC must be installed for VLC Video to appear as an available source; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. See the OBS Project’s Media Sources documentation.
- In the Sources panel, select + and add VLC Video.
- Add the local episode files to the source’s playlist in the desired order.
- For a fixed sequence, leave Shuffle Playlist off. OBS documents it as off by default; turn it on only if you want playback order shuffled.
- Enable Loop Playlist so the sequence repeats after the media runs out. OBS documents this setting as on by default.
- Choose the source’s Visibility Behaviour deliberately. The documented default is to stop playback when the source is hidden and restart it when visible. Other options include pausing and resuming, or continuing to play while hidden. Select OK and test a scene change if your broadcast uses multiple scenes.
For a collection too large to keep conveniently on your computer’s internal drive, an external SSD is an optional storage choice, not a requirement of either OBS source.
Connect OBS to YouTube and go live
- In YouTube Studio, create or select an encoder stream in the Live Control Room. Follow YouTube’s encoder setup instructions.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key from YouTube into their corresponding fields in OBS’s stream settings. Treat the key as private; anyone with access to it may be able to send a broadcast to your channel.
- Start streaming from OBS. For a scheduled broadcast, check the encoder preview in Live Control Room and follow the on-screen steps to go live.
- Open the intended watch page and confirm that the image and audio are working. Monitor the stream while it runs; YouTube’s live streaming tips also recommend monitoring and checking a local archive if you record one.
Plan for visibility, archives, and long broadcasts
Hidden-source behavior can affect playback
If a scene change hides the VLC Video source, its visibility behavior determines whether playback stops, pauses, or continues. A source that stops and restarts may begin the episode again when it becomes visible. Choose the behavior that fits your scene workflow, then test the transition before relying on it during a broadcast.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#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.
A loop is not a promise of a complete YouTube replay
YouTube says streams shorter than 12 hours can be automatically archived, but streams exceeding 12 hours may not be captured at all. The limit is about YouTube’s archive, not OBS’s ability to loop local files. If you need a complete recording, make a local backup and check that the resulting file is usable. See YouTube’s archive live streams guidance.
Troubleshoot common playback and stream problems
| Symptom | What to check | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| VLC Video is missing from the source list | VLC may not be installed, or its architecture may not match OBS. | Install VLC; if using 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC, then check the source list again. OBS documents the VLC dependency and architecture requirement. |
| An episode is missing or fails to play | The playlist may point to a local file path that no longer resolves. | Check that the file still exists at the listed location and update the playlist entry if it moved. |
| Playback starts over after a scene switch | The source may be set to stop when hidden and restart when visible. | Review Visibility Behaviour and choose pause/resume or always-play if that better suits the scene transitions. |
| Episodes play in an unexpected order | Shuffle Playlist may be enabled. | Turn shuffle off for a fixed sequence and verify the playlist order. |
| OBS is streaming, but YouTube is not showing the expected broadcast | The stream URL or key may be wrong, or the stream may not yet have been taken live in Live Control Room. | Check the URL and key in OBS, inspect the YouTube preview, and complete the Live Control Room go-live steps for a scheduled stream. |
| The YouTube replay is incomplete or absent | The broadcast may have exceeded YouTube’s 12-hour archive caveat, or an archive may not have been checked. | Keep a local recording if you need a dependable full copy, and verify the file after recording. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is continuous playback without leaving a home computer on, StreamNeo is a YouTube-only cloud service for uploaded videos: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It keeps the stream running from the cloud, supports the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start with the free day at StreamNeo registration.
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
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.
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.
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.
