There may be individuals facing issues such as, “The audio is in sync at first when using OBS, but it goes out of sync over time,” or “Adjusting the sync offset doesn’t help the situation.”

If the audio delay in OBS expands over time, it may require reviewing settings and PC environment.

This article will explain the differences in audio delay that occur in OBS, as well as the main causes of audio sync issues. Furthermore, we will provide a wide range of concrete solutions, from adjusting OBS settings to improving PC environments and reviewing connected devices.

By reading to the end, you will be able to accurately identify the causes of audio delays and resolve audio issues during your OBS broadcasts, establishing a stable streaming environment.

What Causes Gradual Audio Delay in OBS?

“Audio delay” refers to the phenomenon where the timing between video and audio is out of sync. Audio delay issues can occur in any streaming format using OBS, such as game streaming or live streaming.

The causes of audio delay in OBS are varied, but mainly include the following three:

1. Improper OBS settings
2. Insufficient PC performance
3. Faulty connected devices

Let’s take a closer look at these causes.

Additionally, there are articles that explain solutions for when there is no sound in OBS, so be sure to check them as well.

» Fixing OBS Sound Issues: Easy Solutions for Common Problems

Improper OBS Settings like Sampling Rate

If the internal settings of OBS are not configured correctly, it can lead to audio delays.

A common issue is the mismatch in the “sampling rate.” If the sampling rate set on your PC’s audio device differs from the one set in OBS, audio delays will occur. Additionally, if you are using variable frame rate (VFR), the frame rate of the video may not be consistent, causing a mismatch with the audio.

Furthermore, mistakes in the settings of capture cards or audio interfaces can also lead to audio delays, so caution is needed. If video and audio are being captured from different devices, inaccurate source settings in OBS can result in sync issues, leading to delays.

Insufficient PC Specifications

If your PC’s performance is lacking, it might struggle to process the data, resulting in audio delays.

OBS processes both video and audio simultaneously, putting a significant load on the CPU and memory. Particularly if you are using an older or lower-spec PC, CPU usage can soar, causing delays in processing and making audio delays more likely.

Be cautious if you are overloading your settings during streaming. Particularly when streaming at high-quality settings, if your PC’s specs cannot support them, audio delays may arise. Additionally, unstable internet conditions can cause delays in streaming data, affecting the synchronization between audio and video.

If you are concerned about the recommended PC specs for OBS streaming, refer to the following article.

» Essential Streaming Gear for Aspiring VTubing: Beginner’s Guide

Faulty Connected Devices like Capture Cards

Audio delays may also occur due to devices connected to OBS, such as cameras or microphones. For example, older microphones or capture cards may have performance degradation that leads to audio delays, so caution is necessary.

Moreover, conducting streams while unnecessary software is running can impact the performance of connected devices and the entire PC.

Difference between Consistent Audio Delay and Gradual Audio Delay in OBS

OBS audio delays can be categorized into those that occur consistently from the start and last for a certain duration, and those where the delay gradually increases as the recording or broadcast progresses. Understanding the differences in symptoms is crucial, as the causes and solutions vary. This section will explain the characteristics of the two patterns of audio delay.

Consistent Audio Delay Occurs from the Start

Consistent audio delay refers to a situation where the same duration of delay persists from the start to the end of the recording or stream. The cause is often due to fixed latency from audio devices or capture devices, leading to persistent audio delays as the relationship between video and audio does not change.

In OBS, you can adjust the audio delay by utilizing the “sync offset” feature found in the advanced properties of the audio mixer, following these steps:

1. Open OBS
2. Click on the advanced properties of the audio mixer

3. Enter the delay time in the sync offset

This allows you to adjust the audio in milliseconds. Enter an appropriate value into the sync offset to align the timing of audio and video.

Gradual Audio Delay Increases Over Time

Gradual audio delay refers to a state where the delay widens as the length of the stream or recording increases. Even if there are no issues right after the beginning, the discrepancy between video and audio increases over time.

The sync offset in OBS is a function to correct fixed delays and cannot address audio delays that change over time. If audio delays widen during long streams, it is highly likely that there is an issue with the settings or the operation of your equipment.

The main points to check for gradual audio delays are as follows:

• Audio settings of the capture device
• Sampling rate settings in OBS
• Inconsistencies in audio and video capture methods

You need to review OBS settings and connected devices, ensuring a favorable environment for audio processing.

How to Fix Gradual Audio Delay by Reviewing OBS Settings

To fix the gradual audio delay that occurs in OBS, follow these steps:

1. Turn off timestamp settings
2. Unify the sampling rate with PC settings
3. Match the frame rate with the monitor
4. Ensure settings do not cause frame drops
5. Change settings to prevent frame skipping
6. Adjust settings when using capture cards

Below, we will specifically explain how to address audio delay issues related to OBS settings.

Turn Off Timestamp Settings

If you are using device timestamps in OBS, it may disrupt the synchronization between audio and video. Verify and adjust the settings as necessary by following these steps:

1. Navigate to the timestamp settings screen

From the bottom of the main screen, click on the audio mixer and then click the “… (three dots)” on the target audio source (desktop audio or microphone audio) and select “Properties.”

2. Check the “Use device timestamps” option

On the settings screen, uncheck “Use device timestamps” if it is checked.

If audio delays persist despite this adjustment, it is likely that there are other causes, and reverting to the original settings is perfectly fine.

Unify the Sampling Rate with PC Settings

Audio delays can occur if the sampling rates of OBS and the PC are not aligned. Review the settings by following these steps:

1. Check the sampling rate settings in OBS

Click “Settings” at the bottom right of OBS and select the “Audio” tab. Ensure that the “Sampling Rate” is set to either “44.1kHz” or “48kHz.”

2. Check the sampling rate on the PC

For Windows, navigate to “Settings” → “System” → “Sound” → “Advanced sound settings.” Open the properties for playback or recording devices and check the sampling rate from the “Advanced” tab.

3. Unifying settings is essential

If the sampling rates for OBS and the PC do not match, it can cause audio delays. By unifying the sampling rates to the same value across both OBS and your PC, many audio delay issues can be resolved.

Furthermore, ensure that both playback and recording devices (microphone) are set to the same value.

Match the Frame Rate with the Monitor

Frame rate inconsistencies can be a cause of audio delays. Check and adjust your settings following these steps:

1. Check the monitor’s refresh rate

In Windows, navigate to “Settings” → “System” → “Display” → “Advanced display settings.” Confirm the refresh rate, which is typically set to “60Hz.”

2. Adjust the frame rate settings in OBS

From OBS, select “Settings” → “Video” and choose “Common FPS Values.” Set it to a value that matches your monitor’s refresh rate (e.g., “60 fps”) and check for audio-video synchronization during streaming or recording.

Ensure Settings Do Not Cause Frame Drops

To address audio delays caused by frame drops in OBS, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the frame drop confirmation screen

Click on “Dock” at the top of the main screen and select “Statistics.”

2. Check if any frame drops are occurring

Confirm the red-highlighted sections in the statistics screen. If the numbers appear in red, it indicates frame drops are occurring.

3. Adjust the bitrate

Click on “Settings” at the bottom right of OBS and select the “Output” tab. Modify the bitrate to an appropriate value. For example, it is common to set the audio bitrate to 128Kbps when streaming on YouTube.

Change Settings to Prevent Frame Skipping

If frame skipping is the cause of audio delays, try adjusting the following settings:

1. Adjust the game’s graphics settings

Set the resolution and frame rate appropriate for streaming. If using high resolutions or high frame rates, consider lowering the settings to reduce the PC’s load.

2. Adjust resolution and frame rate

Click “Settings” at the bottom right of OBS and select the “Video” tab, and try setting a lower resolution or frame rate.

Change Settings When Using Capture Cards

When using a capture card, proper settings can improve audio delay issues. Try the following methods:

1. Select “Video Capture Device”

Select “Video Capture Device” from the sources at the bottom of the OBS screen. If this is a new setting, click “+” to add it.

2. Check the “Audio Output Mode”

Open the properties for the capture device and confirm that the “Audio Output Mode” is set to “Capture audio only.” Some capture cards can cause significant audio delay when set to “Desktop audio output.”

3. Enable audio monitoring

From the audio mixer in OBS, open “Advanced Audio Properties” and choose “Monitor Only (Mute Output)” for the relevant audio track. This will allow you to monitor the audio while maintaining synchronization.

4. Utilize passthrough output

If the capture card supports it, using the passthrough feature to listen to game audio directly from the TV or monitor may help prevent audio delay issues.

Preventing Gradual Audio Delay in OBS by Improving PC Environment

If your PC’s specs and settings are causing audio delays, the following methods can help improve the situation:

• Reduce the load on your PC
• Adjust sound settings to match OBS settings
• If using a low-spec PC, lower OBS settings
• Update OBS to the latest version
• Improve internet instability

Let’s take a look at some specific solutions.

Reduce the Load on Your PC

If audio delays occur due to insufficient PC resources, try the following methods to lessen the load:

1. Close unnecessary applications

Close browsers and software that are not in use during streams or recordings. If necessary, open the task manager to check and terminate any unnecessary processes running in the background.

2. Restart your PC

Rebooting rather than shutting down can resolve temporary issues that lead to resource shortages.

3. Review OBS settings

By lowering your stream’s output resolution or setting the bitrate lower, you can reduce the load on the CPU and memory.

Adjust Sound Settings to Match OBS

If PC sound settings are causing audio delays, check and modify them through the following steps:

1. Check detailed sound settings

Navigate to “Settings” → “System” → “Sound” → “Advanced sound settings” in Windows.

2. Select the playback device

From the “Advanced sound settings,” select the playback device you are using and click “Properties.”

3. Unify the sampling rate

Open the “Advanced” tab under “Properties” and set the sampling rate to “24-bit, 44,100Hz” or “24-bit, 48,000Hz.” Next, choose the same sampling rate in the “Audio” tab of OBS settings to ensure they match.

After applying the settings, conduct a stream or recording to check if the audio delay issue is resolved. Ensuring the sampling rates in both the PC and OBS match is crucial for improving audio and video synchronization.

Lower OBS Settings for Low-Spec PCs

If your PC specs cannot meet the demands of OBS, adjusting settings can help prevent audio delays. Follow these steps for adjustments:

1. Check CPU load

Select “View” → “Statistics” from the OBS menu to check your CPU usage. If the numbers appear in red, it indicates that the load is too high, necessitating a review of the settings.

2. Adjust audio bitrate

Open OBS “Settings” → “Output” tab and set the “Audio bitrate” to an appropriate level. Each streaming platform may recommend different values, but for YouTube, 128Kbps is standard.

3. Change settings to lower load

Adjust the resolution and frame rate in OBS under “Settings” → “Video.” For example, lowering the resolution from 1920×1080 to 1280×720 or changing the frame rate from 60fps to 30fps can alleviate PC load.

By optimizing these settings, you can maximize your PC’s performance and stabilize OBS’s operation.

Update OBS to the Latest Version

If your OBS version is outdated, bugs may lead to audio delays. Follow these steps to update to the latest version and resolve issues:

1. Check for OBS updates

Select “Check for Updates” from the “Help” menu in the OBS software or on the official website to verify if a newer version is available.

2. Implement the update

If a newer version exists, download and install OBS from the official website. During the installation, confirm that previous settings are carried over.

3. Verification and testing

After the update is complete, test your streams or recordings to see if the audio delay issue has been resolved. If improvements are not observed, consider potential issues with other settings or equipment.

Improve Internet Instability

Instability of the internet environment can cause audio delays. Use the following methods to reassess your network setup and enhance streaming stability:

1. Check line stability

Conduct a speed test and verify upload speeds and Ping values. Ensure that the required speed for streaming (e.g., over 10 Mbps) is available. High Ping values may indicate issues with connection stability.

2. Optimize Wi-Fi settings

Adjust the placement of your router and use it in areas with strong signal. If instability persists, prioritize wired connections to avoid delays or disconnections.

3. Consider changing your internet service

Upgrading to high-quality fiber-optic lines or superior mobile routers can significantly enhance internet speeds and stability during streaming.

Fixing Gradual Audio Delay in OBS Due to Device Issues

If audio delays are caused by issues with connected devices, you may need to make adjustments to the following devices:

• Adjust delays in cameras and microphones
• Utilize external audio interfaces

Below, we will introduce specific solutions related to devices.

Adjust Delays in Cameras and Microphones

Audio delays caused by device-specific latencies in cameras and microphones can be addressed using the following methods:

1. Check for delays

Verify the specifications or settings of the devices in use to identify the extent of any delays.

2. Manually adjust settings

Open “Advanced Audio Properties” in OBS and input the delay value in the “Sync Offset” of the relevant audio track. For example, if the delay is 50ms, input “50ms” to synchronize audio and video.

3. Close unnecessary software

Terminate any applications or browsers not in use during streaming to reduce overall PC load. This may help stabilize device performance and decrease delays.

Utilize External Audio Interfaces

The processing capabilities of a PC’s built-in sound card have limitations, which can impose constraints on audio quality and latency. By introducing an external audio interface, you can expect improvements in sound quality and reductions in audio delays.

1. Connect the external audio interface

Connect the external audio interface to your PC via USB or another method. When selecting one, consider models capable of fast processing and low latency.

2. Select the device in OBS

Advance to “Settings” → “Audio” in OBS and select the external audio interface as your audio device. This will optimize audio input processing.

3. Take advantage of the benefits

External audio interfaces not only minimize latency but also improve sound quality and support simultaneous use of multiple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gradual Audio Delay in OBS

Here are frequently asked questions regarding audio delays in OBS, along with their solutions.

Can beginners fix audio delay issues in OBS?

Fixing audio delays can sometimes be accomplished by beginners if they systematically dissect the causes.

Start by simplifying your environment and testing the problem. For example, temporarily disable plugins, virtual audio devices, or capture cards to see if audio delays improve. If specific devices or software are identified as the cause of the problem, simply adjusting the corresponding settings can resolve the issue.

However, if the problem is complex and difficult to pinpoint or if multiple factors are involved, finding a solution may prove challenging. Consulting with someone knowledgeable is also an option.

Can audio delays be prevented in OBS even with insufficient PC specs?

Even with inadequate PC specs, you may be able to avoid audio delays by adjusting OBS settings. For instance, lowering resolution, frame rates, or audio bitrates can reduce the load on your PC. Check your CPU usage from “View” → “Statistics” in OBS, and if the numbers show in red, it’s time to revisit your settings.

However, if your PC is excessively underpowered or using an older model, you may need to consider a hardware upgrade as a fundamental solution.

For further details on the necessary specs for OBS, check the following article.
» OBS Requirements Guide: From Recommended PCs to Running Without a GPU!

How to resolve audio delays when using OBS on a Mac?

When utilizing OBS on a Mac, audio delays may occur. You can try these settings to potentially reduce the audio delays.

1. Set the output mode

Navigate to “Settings” → “Output” in OBS and change the “Output Mode” to “Advanced.” Next, set the encoder in the “Streaming” tab to “Apple VT H264 Hardware Encoder.” It is also recommended to adjust the bitrate to 2,500Kbps and the audio bitrate to 128Kbps.

2. Video settings

For “Video,” unify both “Base Resolution” and “Output Resolution” to “1280×720” and set the scale filter to “Lanczos (Sharpened scaling, 36 samples).”

The above settings may help alleviate audio delays.

Conclusion

OBS audio delays can be classified into those that persist consistently from the start and those that widen as streaming time increases. The former can often be improved by adjusting the sync offset, while the latter requires reviewing OBS settings, PC environment, and connected devices.

In particular, mismatched sampling rates, insufficient PC specs, and incorrect settings of capture devices are the primary causes of gradually widening audio delays. Carefully dissecting the issues while examining the entire streaming environment is crucial for achieving stable audio synchronization.

By referencing the content of this article, fine-tune your OBS settings and PC environment to build a comfortable streaming setup where audio and video are perfectly aligned.