As the world of online streaming continues to expand at a breakneck pace, the demand for high-quality streaming audio software has never been higher. Whether you’re a seasoned Twitch streamer or just starting on your journey, having the right audio software can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best streaming audio software available in 2023.
Understanding the Importance of Audio in Streaming
Before we delve into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand why sound matters so much in your broadcasts. The audio quality of your stream is just as vital, if not more so, than the visuals. A clear, feedback-free voice and the ability to communicate effectively with your audience or collaborators are key to a successful stream. Numerous programs can help you achieve this, offering features like sound balancing, audio source routing, and viewer-controlled sound bytes.
Top Streaming Audio Software Choices
In the following sections, we’ll explore some of the best streaming audio software available. We’ll consider their features, pricing, and how they can enhance your streaming experience.
Adobe Audition: A Comprehensive Streaming Audio Solution
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Cost: Paid with a 7-Day Free Trial
Noteworthy Features:
- Extensive toolset for editing, streaming, and recording
- Large and active user community
- Over 50 effects and tools for custom sound content creation
Adobe Audition is a comprehensive streaming audio software that many top Twitch streamers swear by. While it may initially seem daunting for beginners due to its extensive features, as you familiarize yourself with the software, you’ll discover its incredible potential for audio mixing and mastering.
One of the standout features of Adobe Audition is its ability to record audio in multi-track mode. This feature is particularly handy if you plan to create YouTube videos from your Twitch streams, as it allows you to separate the audio for editing later, without leaving awkward sound gaps in your recording.
MixPad and WavePad: The Perfect Duo
Find out more about MixPad and WavePad
Cost: Paid with a Free Unlicensed Version
Noteworthy Features:
- Ability to edit and mix audio
- Access to royalty-free music and sound effects
- User-friendly audio interface
MixPad and WavePad are two distinct but complementary audio tools from NCH Software. MixPad is designed for multitrack production, while WavePad focuses on audio editing. These tools can be used individually or in combination to enhance your stream’s audio quality.
MixPad is a versatile mixing tool that allows you to mix unlimited tracks, ensuring optimum sound quality for your viewers. It also supports VST plugins for music effects and instruments, making it a great choice for those in the Twitch music category.
WavePad, on the other hand, is an excellent tool for editing and restoring audio files. It’s particularly useful for streamers who like sharing highlights of their streams or gameplay on other platforms like YouTube.
Voicemeeter Banana: A Donationware Audio Solution
Learn more about Voicemeeter Banana
Cost: Free as a donationware
Noteworthy Features:
- Multiple virtual inputs and outputs
- Can be used even if no physical audio mixer is present
- Virtual audio device for centralized audio source management
Voicemeeter Banana is free software that helps you manage and mix your audio sources for an engaging stream. It’s available for Windows users and is relatively straightforward to use.
One of the standout features of Voicemeeter Banana is its multiple audio inputs and outputs. This feature is extremely beneficial for streamers, as it allows you to change voices, add soundtracks, and mute distracting audio by separating it through the software.
Voicemeeter Banana operates on a donationware model, meaning you can use the software for free and choose to donate an amount you feel is fair.
Audio Router: Free and Easy-to-Use
Discover Audio Router
Cost: Free
Noteworthy Features:
- Free, open-source software
- Ability to choose and mute different audio outputs
- User-friendly interface
Audio Router is a nifty piece of software that allows you to direct multiple audio sources on your computer to different devices. Imagine being able to listen to one sound source on your headphones while your audience hears something entirely different. You can download it for free on GitHub.
VSTHost: A Classic Choice
Explore VSTHost
Cost: Free
Noteworthy Features:
- Ability to process VST easily
- MIDI player, MIDI Input/Output
- Offers voice alteration capabilities
VSTHost, initially developed in 2002, is a free software that is constantly updated with new features, including mixing capabilities. While it was initially designed for musicians, streamers can also use this software to process audio effectively.
Traktor Pro 3: A DJ’s Delight
Discover Traktor Pro 3
Cost: Paid
Noteworthy Features:
- EQS and Filter Modeling
- User interface can be personalized
- Comprehensive music and audio tracks library
Traktor Pro 3 is a well-known professional DJ software that also offers excellent features for live streaming. With its 4-deck audio playback and mixer, you can control gain, synchronize track tempo, and detect beats.
Serato DJ Pro: An Intuitive Interface
Explore Serato DJ Pro
Cost: Paid with a 14-Day Free Trial
Noteworthy Features:
- User-friendly interface
- Music library directly accessible to major platforms
- 7-day customer support
Serato DJ Pro is a professional, user-friendly software option with over 40 sound effects and is supported by iTunes and Soundcloud. This software also allows you to sync the BPM on your audio tracks, adding to its range of DJ-friendly features.
Incorporating Music and Sound Alerts in Your Stream
Integrating music and sound alerts in your stream can greatly enhance your audience’s experience. However, it’s essential to be mindful of copyright issues when playing music during your stream. Several platforms provide music for streamers either for attribution or a small fee.
Epidemic Sound: A Sea of Royalty-Free Tracks
Discover Epidemic Sound
Cost: Paid with a 30-Day Free Trial
Noteworthy Features:
- Offers a wide range of royalty-free tracks
- Compatible with multiple platforms
- 30-day free trial available
Epidemic Sound is a popular choice for streamers, offering a collection of 35,000 royalty-free tracks. They offer a 30-day free trial and an affordable personal plan that provides unlimited music for YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, and Instagram.
Pretzel: Constantly Updated Music Catalog
Learn more about Pretzel
Cost: Free, with an option to upgrade
Noteworthy Features:
- Over 320,000 safe music tracks
- Curated stations
- Free version available
Pretzel offers a constantly updated music catalog that you can play on your stream without worrying about copyright infringement. You can either download the player or play music directly from the browser.
SoundAlerts Widget: Engage Your Audience
Experience SoundAlerts Widget
Cost: Free
Noteworthy Features:
- Fully customizable
- Easy setup
- 100% Free
The SoundAlerts Widget allows viewers to play specific sounds on your stream using bits. You set the prices for the sounds, and the revenue from bits is split between you and the widget developer.
Wrapping Up
Incorporating music and sound effects can significantly enhance your stream’s entertainment value. While determining the best streaming audio software ultimately depends on your needs and preferences, the options listed above are excellent places to start your search. Remember, the right software is one that you feel comfortable using and that your viewers enjoy.
As you continue to grow and evolve as a streamer, you may find that your audio needs change. Stay flexible, stay informed, and most importantly, keep streaming!
