How to Fix Microphone Sounding BAD or Distorted in OBS (Easy Method)
9If your microphone sounds bad or distorted in OBS, it’s often due to incorrect settings, hardware issues, or interference. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem:
1. Check Your Microphone Hardware
a. Ensure Proper Connection:
Verify that the microphone is securely connected to your PC.
Use a different USB port (for USB microphones) or cable if needed.
b. Test on Another Device:
Test the microphone on another device to rule out hardware issues.
c. Use a Quality Microphone:
If using a built-in or low-quality mic, consider upgrading to an external microphone for better sound.
2. Adjust Audio Settings in OBS
a. Select the Correct Microphone:
Go to Settings - Audio.
Under Devices, set your microphone as the Mic/Auxiliary Audio device.
b. Set Sample Rate:
Ensure the sample rate matches your microphone’s specifications.
Go to Settings - Audio and set the Sample Rate (e.g., 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz).
Check the sample rate in your OS audio settings:
Windows: Right-click the speaker icon - Sounds - Recording tab - Microphone - Properties- Advanced.
c. Monitor Audio Levels:
In the OBS Audio Mixer, ensure the microphone volume does not reach the red zone to avoid clipping and distortion.
Adjust the Gain by clicking the gear icon in the Audio Mixer and selecting Filters.
3. Apply Audio Filters in OBS
OBS filters can significantly improve microphone quality:
a. Noise Suppression:
Add the Noise Suppression filter to reduce background noise.
Choose RNNoise for higher quality or Speex (set at Medium/High) for less CPU usage.
b. Gain:
Add the Gain filter to boost the microphone volume if it’s too low. Avoid excessive gain to prevent distortion.
c. Compressor:
Add a Compressor filter to balance audio levels and prevent sudden spikes.
d. Noise Gate:
Add a Noise Gate filter to cut off low-level background noise when you're not speaking.
e. Equalizer (VST Plugins):
Use a VST plugin (like ReaEQ) for fine-tuning frequencies. Reduce harsh frequencies (e.g., 4-8 kHz) and boost warm tones (e.g., 100-300 Hz).
4. Optimize System Audio Settings
a. Disable Enhancements:
Go to Control Panel- Sound -Recording tab.
Right-click your microphone - Properties-Enhancements tab.
Disable all audio enhancements.
b. Disable Exclusive Mode:
In the Advanced tab, uncheck Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device.
c. Set Proper Microphone Levels:
Adjust the mic level in Control Panel -Sound - Recording tab -- Microphone - Properties - Levels tab. Set it to 75%-90% to avoid over-amplification.
5. Minimize Background Interference
Record in a quiet environment.
Use a pop filter or windshield to reduce plosives and wind noise.
Position the microphone properly (6-12 inches from your mouth at an angle).
6. Update and Test
a. Update Audio Drivers:
Update your sound card or audio interface drivers.
b. Check OBS and Windows Updates:
Ensure OBS and your operating system are up to date.
c. Test the Setup:
Record a short audio clip in OBS and listen to the playback. Adjust filters and settings as needed.
d
7. Advanced Tips
Use an audio interface for XLR microphones for better sound quality.
Utilize third-party tools like VoiceMeeter for advanced audio routing and processing.
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