OBS STUDIO
Live stream from your Linux deskop
Nick Peers reveals how to create a multi-screen live streaming video with the help of OBS Studio.
OUR EXPERT
Nick Peers wonders if there’s a future in live streaming for a greying tech journo who can’t stand the sound of his own voice.
Live streaming is an increasingly popular medium, enabling you to produce content that’s shared in real time and - if your online provider supports it - available afterwards for those who missed the live show. If you’re looking to make your next online live stream something special, then take a look at OBS Studio (www.obsproject.com). Not only can you easily combine multiple video and audio sources into a single stream, OBS Studio provides you with a means of breaking down your stream into specific sections, making it easy to seamlessly switch between different sources and screen setups. Crucially, it works with all the major online streaming providers.
Ensure you’re running the latest version of OBS Studio by installing it through its own repo - a simple three-command trick:
Take the OBS Studio tour
1 Preview window
The currently selected Scene is displayed here - click an individual Source to reposition and resize it.
2 Scenes
Set up your Scenes here - each is effectively a design template. Right-click a Scene for more options.
3 Sources
The currently selected Scene’s configured Sources are shown here. Double-click one to edit its properties.
4 Audio Mixer
Use these slider controls to set the volume for your microphone and default audio playback device.
5 Scene Transitions
You can configure the default transition effect when you move from one Scene to another here.
6 Stream controls
Shortcuts to start or stop your stream and access Studio Mode can be accessed from this panel.
$ sudo apt install ffmpeg
$ sudo add-apt-repository ppa:obsproject/obs-studio
$ sudo apt install obs-studio
Visit https://obsproject.com/wiki/install-instructions#linux for detailed instructions covering most other popular distros.
Open the program via the Launcher and choose Yes to run the auto-configuration wizard, selecting ‘Optimize for streaming, recording is secondary’ for streaming and screen-sharing purposes.
When prompted for a base (canvas) resolution, opt for 1,280x720 to limit the stream to 720p HD to avoid overwhelming your own internet connection, never mind anyone else’s. Leave the default FPS setting as it is and click Next again.
Next, you’ll be prompted to select your streaming platform. Five popular options (Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live, Restream.io, and Periscope/Twitter) are shown by default, or click Show All… to view dozens more, including Steam and Mixcloud.
Each streaming service has its own steps to follow - the box (facing page) reveals how to link OBS Studio to your YouTube account, but typically you’ll need to get hold of a stream key, plus configure related preferences. Click Next and the program may perform a series of tests to confirm your settings should work. Click Back if your settings prove too ambitious for your connection, or Apply Settings to move on.