A sound compressor is a powerful tool in OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) and Streamlabs OBS that helps balance audio levels during live streams. It automatically reduces loud audio spikes and increases quiet sounds, ensuring consistent and clear audio output. This guide will walk you through setting up a sound compressor effectively, especially for situations where you have background music playing while speaking.
What is a Sound Compressor?
A sound compressor works by adjusting the volume of an audio source to prevent sudden loud spikes or inaudible sounds. When you are speaking, the compressor lowers the volume of background sounds (like music) so your voice remains clear. Once you stop speaking, the volume of the background audio returns to its normal level.
Example:
Music is playing and you start speaking → The music volume automatically decreases.
You stop speaking → The music volume increases again.
This effect ensures that your voice is always prioritized, providing a more professional audio experience for your audience.
Step 1: Setting Up Your Audio Source
Before adding a sound compressor, ensure your microphone or auxiliary input is active and providing clear audio.
Open OBS Studio or Streamlabs OBS.
Navigate to File > Settings > Audio.
Under Devices, find Mic/Auxiliary Audio.
Select your microphone or audio input device from the dropdown menu.
Click Apply and then OK.
✅ Tip: Always aim for your audio input levels to peak in the yellow zone in the Audio Mixer for optimal sound quality.
Step 2: Adding the Compressor Effect
Now that your audio input is set, it's time to add the sound compressor effect.
In the Audio Mixer, locate your microphone audio input.
Click the cogwheel icon (gear) next to your microphone and select Filters.
In the Filters window, click the + icon and select Compressor.
Name the filter (optional) and click OK.
The compressor settings window will now open.
Step 3: Configuring Compressor Settings
To get the best results, you need to fine-tune the compressor settings.
1. Set the Ratio
Recommended Setting: Start with a ratio of 3:1.
What it does: For every 3 dB your input exceeds the threshold, the output will only increase by 1 dB. This prevents audio from becoming too loud.
2. Adjust the Threshold
Recommended Setting: Start around -20 dB.
What it does: The threshold is the volume point at which the compressor starts working. Lower the threshold if your audio is too quiet, or increase it if your audio is too loud.
3. Set Attack and Release Times
Attack Time: Set it around 6 milliseconds (ms).
What it does: Determines how quickly the compressor responds when your voice gets loud.
Release Time: Set it around 50-60 milliseconds (ms).
What it does: Determines how quickly the compressor stops compressing after you stop speaking.
4. Adjust the Output Gain
Recommended Setting: Start with a 9 dB boost.
What it does: Increases the overall volume of your audio after compression. Adjust this if your voice is still too low.
✅ Pro Tip: If you notice your voice is still being overpowered by background audio, slightly lower the threshold or increase the ratio.
Step 4: Using Sidechain Ducking (Optional)
Sidechain ducking is an advanced technique that lowers the volume of one audio source (like background music) whenever you speak. This keeps your voice clear and prominent.
How to Set Up Sidechain Ducking
In the Audio Mixer, click the gear icon next to your microphone and go to Filters.
Add a Compressor if you haven’t already.
In the compressor settings, look for Sidechain/Ducking Source.
From the dropdown, select your background music audio source.
Adjust the Threshold to ensure your music lowers only when you speak.
Test it live and fine-tune the settings until the background audio responds smoothly to your voice.
✅ Tip: Sidechain ducking is especially useful for streamers who play music or game sounds while speaking.
Step 5: Testing Your Audio
Before going live, always test your audio settings to ensure the compressor is working correctly.
Perform a test recording or private stream.
Speak while playing background music.
Monitor if the music lowers automatically when you talk and increases when you stop.
Adjust the compressor settings as needed.
✅ Pro Tip: Use headphones while testing to get a clear idea of how your viewers will experience your audio.
Using a sound compressor in OBS or Streamlabs OBS can dramatically enhance the audio quality of your live streams. By properly setting the compressor, you ensure your voice remains clear and dominant, regardless of background noise. Additionally, utilizing sidechain ducking can take your stream audio to a professional level, automatically adjusting music volume as you speak.
Take your time to experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance for your setup. Your audience will appreciate the clear and balanced sound quality during your live streams.