When researching V-Liver equipment, you might worry that you need a complete setup before you can start streaming. In reality, some apps let you stream with just a compatible smartphone — there’s no need to invest in expensive microphones or mixers right away.

That said, the equipment you need depends on your streaming style. Casual voice chatting on a smartphone requires different gear than running an avatar on a PC or capturing console game footage. Since each app has different device compatibility, PC streaming support, and external equipment options, the first step is deciding what kind of streams you want to do and which app to use.

This article covers the equipment V-Livers need, organized by streaming style — smartphone, PC, and more. From budget-based setup examples to microphone and mixer selection, connection methods, and audio troubleshooting, we explain everything beginners need to know.

Smartphone vs. PC: A Full List of Equipment V-Livers Need

The equipment a V-Liver needs varies depending on whether you stream from a smartphone or run an avatar on a PC. Some smartphone apps let you start without any external gear, while PC streaming typically requires a model, software, and tracking devices.

Let’s start by breaking down the differences between streaming styles.

Some Smartphone Apps Require No External Equipment

Several V-Liver apps let you start streaming with just a compatible smartphone. Examples include IRIAM, REALITY, and Mirrativ (which features built-in avatar functionality).

However, the required avatars, illustrations, and streaming methods differ by app. Some services let you create avatars within the app, while others require you to prepare your own illustrations — so be sure to check beforehand.

When starting with a smartphone app, an external microphone or mixer isn’t mandatory. Try streaming with your phone first, and add equipment later once you identify specific issues with audio quality or functionality. This approach helps you avoid unnecessary spending.

PC Streaming Requires a Model and Software

If you want to animate an avatar on a PC, you’ll need the PC itself along with a model, streaming software, and a tracking setup.

While the specifics vary by configuration, here are the main items typically used:

• Avatar model
• Microphone or headset
• Tracking software
• Streaming software
• Webcam or compatible smartphone (depending on the tracking method)

For face tracking, some software supports compatible smartphones in addition to webcams. Rather than automatically purchasing a webcam, check which devices your chosen tracking software supports before deciding.

Equipment Checklist by Streaming Style

Here’s a summary of the main equipment used for each streaming style. The actual requirements vary by app and streaming method, so use this table as a general guide.

Streaming Style	Main Device	Audio Equipment	Tracking Device	Other
Smartphone voice/chat streaming	Compatible smartphone	Built-in mic is fine	Not needed for voice-only	Phone stand
Smartphone with improved audio	Compatible smartphone	External microphone	Depends on the app	Adapter / wired earphones
Smartphone singing/BGM streaming	Compatible smartphone	External mic / mixer as needed	Depends on the app	BGM playback device / cables (varies by setup)
PC avatar streaming	PC	Built-in or external mic	Webcam or compatible smartphone	Streaming & tracking software
PC game streaming	PC	Built-in or external mic	Depends on the method	Streaming software / capture card for consoles

Check Your App’s Compatibility Before Buying Equipment

Before purchasing any equipment, verify that your device meets the app’s system requirements. If your device doesn’t meet the specifications, added equipment won’t help if the app itself can’t run properly.

Key items to check include:

• Supported OS and recommended devices
• PC streaming support
• Tablet compatibility
• External microphone and mixer support
• BGM and screen sharing features
• Network stability

PC streaming support also varies by app. For example, IRIAM doesn’t have an official PC app, while Mirrativ supports PC streaming via OBS. REALITY also offers a game streaming feature using OBS with an official plugin.

For your internet connection, stability matters just as much as speed. If your Wi-Fi is unreliable, switching to a different Wi-Fi network or mobile data may help — though be mindful of data usage when streaming over mobile.

System requirements and supported features can change over time. Before purchasing any device or equipment, check the latest information on your app’s official page.

Next, let’s look at what each type of equipment does and how to choose the right one.

What Equipment Do V-Livers Use? How to Choose by Type

When choosing equipment, it’s important to consider not just price and reviews, but whether it’s compatible with your streaming content and device. Here, we’ll cover the roles and selection criteria for microphones, mixers, earphones, tracking devices, and more.

Choose a Microphone Based on Type, Polar Pattern, and Connection

The main types of microphones used for V-Liver streaming are dynamic and condenser microphones. Each has its own characteristics, but the microphone type alone doesn’t determine how it will sound.

Type	General Characteristics	Selection Guide
Dynamic microphone	Generally durable; many are designed for close-up use near the mouth	When you want to capture mainly your voice with the mic positioned close
Condenser microphone	Many models have excellent high-frequency response and capture subtle sound nuances	When you want to capture vocal nuances in a relatively quiet environment

Another factor to consider is the polar pattern — this indicates which directions a microphone picks up sound from.

A cardioid (unidirectional) pattern picks up sound mainly from the front, making it a good candidate for streams focused on capturing your voice. An omnidirectional pattern picks up sound from all directions, which can be useful when you want to include ambient sounds.

However, how much ambient noise gets picked up isn’t determined by the polar pattern alone. Distance from your mouth, input gain, and room acoustics all play a role, so consider your actual streaming environment when choosing.

If ease of operation during streams is a priority, consider models with a physical mute button or touch panel. This lets you quickly silence the mic when a cough or household noise might come through.

The three main connection types are:

• XLR: Connects to a mixer or audio interface. Requires a device with XLR input and a mic preamp
• USB: Connects to a PC or compatible smartphone. Verify compatibility with your device and app
• 3.5mm: Connects to a compatible mic input jack. Check 3-pole/4-pole compatibility, CTIA standard, and plug-in power support

Here are some example microphones to consider when planning your equipment setup:

Product	Type	Connection	Additional Requirements / Notes
Behringer XM8500	Dynamic	XLR	Requires an XLR cable and a mixer or similar device with mic input
SHURE SM58	Dynamic	XLR	Requires an XLR cable and mixer. A stand is also needed if mounting
SHURE MV7+	Dynamic	USB-C / XLR	Check device compatibility for USB. XLR requires a cable and mixer
Audio-Technica AT2020 (XLR model)	Condenser	XLR	Requires a device with XLR input and 48V phantom power

These are configuration examples, and operation with all streaming apps is not guaranteed. Check the manufacturer’s supported devices and OS before purchasing, and always run audio tests before going live.

Choose a Mixer or Audio Interface Based on Your Streaming Needs

In simple terms, an audio interface primarily converts analog audio from microphones into digital signals for your PC or smartphone.

A mixer, on the other hand, is used to combine multiple audio sources — like your mic and BGM — and adjust the volume balance. However, since some products combine both functions, you can’t judge by the product name alone.

If you want to use an XLR microphone or adjust the balance between your mic audio and BGM during a stream, check the following:

• How it connects to your smartphone or PC
• Type of microphone input jack
• BGM input jack
• Phantom power support
• Headphone output
• Loopback function
• External power requirements

Loopback is a feature that sends audio playing on your PC or smartphone back to the streaming output along with your mic audio. The specific audio routed and setup method differ by product, and some configurations may not use it at all.

Some XLR condenser microphones require 48V phantom power. Check your microphone’s power specifications before purchasing.

When connecting to a smartphone, some mixers require external power. Check not just the unit itself but also the cables and power supply.

Don’t Forget Earphones, Headphones, and Accessories

Prepare wired earphones or headphones to monitor the balance between your voice and BGM. If you want to minimize sound leakage, closed-back headphones are also an option.

Bluetooth connections may introduce audio latency due to the nature of wireless communication. For real-time audio monitoring, wired options are generally the simpler choice.

Common accessories you may need beyond the main equipment include:

Accessory	Main Purpose
Mic stand / boom arm	Maintains consistent distance between the mic and your mouth
Pop filter	Reduces plosive sounds caused by direct breath hitting the mic
Phone stand	Keeps your device in a stable position
XLR cable	Connects an XLR microphone to a mixer or interface
Adapter	Matches your device’s port to the equipment’s connection type
External power supply	Powers the mixer when required by the model or connection method

For adapters, check not only whether the connector fits physically but also whether it supports audio input and output. A charging-only adapter won’t transmit microphone audio to your device.

Choose a Camera or Smartphone for Face Tracking

How you apply facial expressions to your avatar depends on the app and tracking software you use.

Some smartphone apps read facial expressions through the device’s front camera. In this case, a separate webcam isn’t needed.

When using tracking software on a PC, some programs support compatible smartphones in addition to webcams. For example, VTube Studio — a popular choice for Live2D models — supports face tracking via either a webcam or an iPhone/Android device.

The required resolution and frame rate depend on the software. For VTube Studio, for instance, a webcam resolution of 1280×720 or higher and a frame rate of 15–30 fps are recommended as guidelines.

Camera specs alone don’t determine tracking accuracy. Also check that your face is properly within the camera’s frame, that nothing obstructs your eyes or mouth, and that the software settings are configured correctly.

Streaming Console Games? Check How to Capture the Video

For game streaming, how you capture the video depends on the type of game you’re playing.

Game Type	Main Capture Method
PC games	Game Capture or Window Capture in streaming software
Console games	Capture device, or compatible Remote Play feature
Mobile games	App’s screen sharing or game streaming feature

PC games running on the same computer can be captured through the streaming software’s Game Capture feature, so a capture card typically isn’t needed.

To capture console game footage on your PC, you can use either a capture device or a compatible Remote Play feature like PS Remote Play.

When connecting a Nintendo Switch to a capture device, you’ll need a model that supports TV output along with its dock. The Switch Lite doesn’t support TV output, so it can’t be used with standard capture devices.

If you plan to stream mobile games, check whether the app you use supports screen sharing or game streaming.

Now that you understand how to choose each type of equipment, let’s look at how much it all costs.

How Much Does V-Liver Equipment Cost? Budget-Based Setup Examples

One of the biggest concerns when gathering V-Liver equipment is the cost. Here, we’ll present budget estimates and setup examples based on prices as of July 2026.

Additional Budget Estimate	Setup Example	Best For
0 yen	Your existing compatible smartphone + built-in mic	People who want to try smartphone streaming first
Around 5,000–15,000 yen	Smartphone-compatible mic + adapter as needed	People bothered by built-in mic audio or placement
Around 30,000–60,000 yen	XLR mic + mixer + cables + power supply	People who want to adjust audio for singing streams or BGM

Actual prices vary depending on the products and connection methods you choose. Be sure to factor in the cost of cables, adapters, stands, and external power supplies — not just the main equipment.

0 Yen Additional Cost: Try Streaming with Your Existing Smartphone

If you already own a compatible smartphone, you can try streaming without buying an external mic or mixer. However, some apps may require you to separately prepare illustrations or avatar models.

Secure your smartphone in a stable position and adjust the distance and angle following the app’s instructions. It’s also important to choose a location where air conditioning, TV, or outdoor noise is minimized.

After your first stream, you’ll notice areas for improvement — voice volume, background noise, whether you need BGM, and so on. By identifying these issues before shopping, you’re less likely to buy equipment you don’t actually need.

Around 5,000–15,000 Yen: Consider a Smartphone-Compatible Microphone

If your built-in mic’s audio quality or position bothers you, consider an external microphone. In this price range, clip-on lavalier mics and microphones designed for smartphones are common options.

Before purchasing, check not just the connector type but also:

• Whether it supports audio input
• Whether it’s compatible with your OS and device
• Whether you need an adapter
• Whether there’s verified compatibility with your streaming app

Even if the connector physically fits, an adapter that doesn’t support audio input won’t let you use the microphone. Check the manufacturer’s listed compatible devices and OS versions.

Since app-level compatibility isn’t always guaranteed, always run an audio test before going live after purchasing.

Around 30,000–60,000 Yen: Get a Microphone, Mixer, and More

If you want to try singing streams or adjust the balance between your mic and BGM in real time, a setup combining an XLR microphone with a streaming mixer is a strong option.

While the specifics vary by configuration, this type of setup typically includes:

• XLR microphone
• Mixer or audio interface
• XLR cable
• Wired earphones/headphones
• Smartphone connection cable
• Adapter as needed
• External power supply (depends on model and connection method)
• BGM playback device as needed
• Mic stand and pop filter

If you want to incorporate BGM, also verify that the device has the necessary BGM input jack or Loopback functionality for your purposes.

The Yamaha AG03MK2 is one example of a streaming mixer used in this type of setup. However, the required cables and power method vary by model. Check the manufacturer’s documentation to verify compatibility with your device before choosing.

For a detailed guide on connecting the AG03 series with IRIAM, check out this article.
>>IRIAM Streaming Equipment Guide: Must-Have Gear and Budget-Based Setup Recommendations

PC Streaming Costs Depend on Whether You Already Have a PC

The cost of PC streaming varies significantly based on whether you already have a usable PC. If you can use an existing PC, you save on the purchase cost of the computer itself.

However, in addition to a microphone and tracking devices, you may also need to pay for avatar models and premium software features. If you need to buy a new PC, that cost is added on top.

The required PC specifications depend on the streaming software, avatar model, game demands, and stream quality. Even within avatar streaming, a just-chatting setup and a multi-source setup with game footage have very different requirements.

For more on choosing streaming software, check out this article.
>>Best VTuber Software for Streaming: Free Tools and How to Choose by Purpose

Now that you have an idea of what equipment you need, let’s look at how to connect everything.

How to Connect V-Liver Equipment: Basic Setup Guide

One of the trickiest parts after gathering your equipment is connecting everything to your device. This section walks you through connecting a mic directly to a smartphone, adding a mixer and BGM playback device, and basic PC streaming connections.

Check Connectors, Compatibility, and Power Requirements First

Before connecting anything, verify the specifications of your device and equipment.

• Does your device meet the streaming app’s system requirements?
• Does your smartphone use Lightning, USB-C, or 3.5mm?
• Which OS and devices does the equipment support?
• What type of cable is required?
• Does the adapter support both audio input and output?
• Does the mixer or audio interface require external power?
• Can you charge your smartphone during the stream?
• Are the app’s mic permissions and mute settings configured?

External devices may not work properly depending on the combination of device, OS, and adapter. Always check the manufacturer’s listed compatibility before connecting.

Connecting a Compatible Mic Directly to Your Smartphone

The simplest setup is connecting a compatible microphone directly to your smartphone. With fewer devices in the chain, it’s easier to troubleshoot if audio isn’t working.

Smartphone-compatible mic → Adapter (if needed) → Streaming smartphone

When using a Lightning or USB-C adapter, check not only the physical connector but also whether it supports audio input. A charging-only cable or adapter won’t transmit mic audio to the device.

Not all USB microphones work with every smartphone or streaming app. For 3.5mm connections, the plug’s pole count and standard must also match your device’s specifications.

After connecting, use a recording app to verify that audio is being captured from the external mic. Then check the streaming app’s mic permissions and mute settings, and test that audio is reaching the actual stream.

Connecting a Mixer and BGM Playback Device to Your Smartphone

If you want to incorporate BGM from a separate device or adjust the mic-to-BGM balance in real time, adding a mixer to your setup is a good option.

Mic → Mixer → Streaming smartphone
BGM playback device → Mixer input

Some apps don’t allow you to play BGM from another app in the background on the same device. In that case, use a separate device — such as a computer, tablet, or spare smartphone — for BGM playback. For example, IRIAM does not support playing BGM from a separate app on the same device during a stream.

Where you control BGM volume depends on the input type and mixer. Also check the playback device’s volume and adjust the mic-to-BGM balance before your stream.

When using commercially available or third-party music, be aware that neighboring rights (such as those held by performers and record producers) may apply in addition to the composer’s copyright. Even for royalty-free music, check the distributor’s terms regarding live streaming, monetization, and credit requirements. Some apps may also have their own music usage rules and reporting procedures.

Connect the Mixer Using the Right Method for Your Device

How you connect a mixer to your smartphone depends on the model. Even with the same mixer, the cables required for an iPhone versus an Android device may differ.

For example, with the Yamaha AG03MK2, the connection method varies by device:

iPhone with Lightning: AG03MK2 → Included USB cable → Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter → iPhone

iPhone with USB-C: AG03MK2 → USB-C to USB-C cable → iPhone

Android: AG03MK2 → CTIA-standard 3.5mm 4-pole stereo mini cable → Android

The AG03MK2 does not support USB audio input/output with Android devices. For Android devices without a headphone jack, you’ll need a USB-C adapter that supports both audio input and output. Additionally, audio sent to Android is mono.

When connecting the AG03MK2 to a smartphone, you also need to provide 5V/1A or higher external power to the unit. This is specific to the AG03MK2 — other mixers have different cable and power requirements, so always check the manufacturer’s manual.

For a detailed guide on connecting the AG03 series with IRIAM, check out this article.
>>IRIAM Streaming Equipment Guide: Must-Have Gear and Budget-Based Setup Recommendations

Basic PC Streaming Setup for Avatars and Games

If your chosen service supports PC streaming, you’ll route audio, avatar visuals, and game footage into your streaming software.

With an XLR mic: XLR mic → Audio interface → PC

With a USB mic: USB mic → PC

Tracking setup example: Webcam or compatible smartphone → Tracking software → PC

Avatar visuals + mic audio + game footage → Streaming software → Streaming platform

To capture console game footage, you can use either a capture device or a compatible Remote Play feature.

With a capture device: Game console → Capture device → PC → Streaming software

The avatar animated by your tracking software is added to the streaming software as a video source. The exact method depends on the software combination, so check the official documentation for each.

For more on choosing streaming software, check out this article.
>>Best VTuber Software for Streaming: Free Tools and How to Choose by Purpose

Once everything is connected, run an audio test before going live. The next section covers what to check when audio isn’t working.

Common Equipment Troubles in V-Liver Streaming and How to Fix Them

Issues like your mic not picking up sound or BGM not reaching the stream are easier to resolve when you have a systematic troubleshooting approach.

Here’s a quick-reference table of symptoms, what to check, and how to fix them. Mixer-specific settings use the AG03MK2 as an example, as in the previous section.

Symptom	What to Check	Solution
External mic audio not coming through	Mic permissions / mute settings / connector / adapter	Check permissions and settings; remove external gear and test with the built-in mic
Mixer won’t power on	Power indicator / external power supply	Connect the appropriate power source for the model
Mixer audio not reaching the smartphone	Cable / connection method / adapter	Verify the connection method for your mixer and device combination
Mic audio is too quiet	Input gain / fader / distance from mouth	Gradually increase gain and reposition the mic
Mic audio is distorted/clipping	Input level indicator / input gain	Lower the gain; check PAD settings if available
BGM not reaching the stream	Input jack / playback device volume / output settings	Check cables, device volume, and adjust settings for your connection setup
Feedback/howling	Speakers / monitoring method / audio return settings	Use wired earphones; check for audio loop configurations
Audio cutting in and out	External devices / internet connection / device state	Remove external devices, restart app and device, switch networks

Start with Permissions, a Restart, and a Minimal Setup

If no audio is coming through at all, start by checking mic permissions and mute settings before adjusting any detailed configurations.

First, verify that the mic isn’t muted in the streaming screen and that mic permissions are granted to the app in your device settings. If nothing seems wrong, restart both the app and your device.

If the issue persists, disconnect the external mic and mixer and test whether audio comes through using only the smartphone’s built-in mic.

If the built-in mic works fine, the problem likely lies with the external mic, cable, adapter, or mixer settings. Reconnect each piece of equipment one at a time to identify at which point audio stops working.

If the built-in mic also fails, check the app’s official help resources. For audio dropouts, try restarting the app and device, plus switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

For example, IRIAM’s official support recommends restarting the app and device, switching networks, disconnecting external devices, and checking mute settings when audio isn’t working or is cutting out.

When Audio Is Too Quiet or Distorted, Adjust Input Levels

Mic volume is affected not just by equipment settings but also by the distance between the microphone and your mouth.

On a mixer or audio interface with adjustable input gain, gradually increase the gain while speaking. At the same time, check that you aren’t positioned too far from the mic.

Conversely, if audio sounds distorted or clipped, the input level may be too high. If you see an indicator showing excessive input levels, use it as a guide to lower the gain.

On the AG03MK2, adjust the GAIN so that the PEAK lamp lights up briefly only when you speak loudly. If it lights up frequently, lower the GAIN and check the PAD setting if necessary.

Before upgrading to an expensive mic, start by revisiting the distance from the mic and your input settings.

For BGM and Feedback Issues, Review Connections and Settings

If BGM plays on the playback device but doesn’t reach the stream, check the cable connections, the playback device’s volume, and the mixer’s input jack.

Some models have output settings that control which audio is sent to the stream. On the AG03MK2, when routing BGM from the AUX input together with mic audio, INPUT MIX in the STREAMING OUT settings is one example. The appropriate setting varies depending on your connection method, such as when routing audio from a USB-connected device.

Feedback (howling) occurs when a speaker’s output is picked up by the mic again, creating a loop of amplifying sound. In this case, switch from speakers to wired earphones or headphones.

However, if audio is looping due to settings like Loopback, simply switching to wired earphones won’t resolve it. Check which device’s audio is being routed where.

When using DAW software with the AG03MK2, the LOOPBACK setting can sometimes cause audio loops. Yamaha recommends selecting DRY CH1-2 or INPUT MIX in this situation.

If none of these steps help, disconnect equipment one piece at a time to return to a minimal setup and isolate the cause. If the issue still can’t be resolved, contact the app’s or equipment manufacturer’s support team.

Next, let’s address some frequently asked questions about equipment purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions About V-Liver Equipment

Finally, here are answers to common questions people have when choosing V-Liver equipment.

Is It OK to Buy Used Streaming Equipment?

Used equipment can be a good option for saving money. However, compared to new products, there’s a higher risk of defects or missing accessories. Before purchasing, check the following:

• Whether the model number and generation match the product you want
• Whether input/output jacks and phantom power have been tested
• Whether knobs and faders produce noise when moved
• Whether accessories like USB and power cables are included
• Whether it’s compatible with your device and OS
• Whether there’s a warranty or return policy

When buying online, listings that say “tested” may not specify which functions were actually checked. Choose sellers with detailed testing notes or clear return policies for peace of mind.

Since used microphones are held close to the mouth, also check the grille and windscreen for dirt, odor, or wear. Knowing whether replacement parts are available will help you maintain the mic in good condition after purchase.

Should I Stream from a PC or a Smartphone?

Neither option is inherently better — it depends on the type of streaming you want to do.

Smartphone streaming is a good fit when:

• You want to start with your existing device
• Your focus is chatting or using in-app avatars
• You want to avoid complex setup

PC streaming is a good fit when:

• You want to do game commentary
• You want to create custom stream layouts
• You want to use Live2D models and tracking software
• You want to manage multiple video and audio sources

One approach is to start with smartphone streaming and transition to a PC setup once you want to expand your activities. This gradual transition lets you keep initial costs low while figuring out exactly what equipment you need.

However, PC streaming support varies by app. Some services don’t have an official PC app, so check whether your preferred app supports PC streaming before making plans.

Conclusion

The equipment a V-Liver needs depends on the app and streaming method. Some smartphone apps let you start without buying external microphones or mixers. On the other hand, animating an avatar on a PC typically requires equipment along with an avatar model, tracking software, and streaming software.

When choosing equipment, factor in not just the main unit’s price but also cables, adapters, and external power supplies. Since connection methods and compatibility vary depending on the combination of your device, app, and equipment, checking compatibility before purchase and running audio tests before going live are essential. When using BGM, be sure to also review the distributor’s terms of use as well as copyright, neighboring rights, and the streaming app’s own rules.

Start by trying a stream with the device and equipment you already have. Once you identify specific issues with audio, BGM, or usability, you can add what you need — this way, you’ll avoid unnecessary spending while building a streaming setup that works for you.