Multistream with OBS: A Comprehensive Guide to Streaming on Multiple Platforms

What Is Multistreaming?

Multistreaming refers to the process of broadcasting a single live stream to multiple platforms at the same time. For instance, you could simultaneously stream a gaming session on Twitch, a tutorial on YouTube, and a Q&A session on Facebook Live. This strategy saves time and effort, as you can reach different audiences without the need to stream separately on each platform.

Multistreaming is a powerful tool for anyone looking to grow their online presence, including musicians, content creators, gamers, and businesses.

Why Multistream with OBS?

OBS Studio is an open-source streaming software that provides flexibility and control over your live streams. Here are some key reasons why using OBS for multistreaming is beneficial:

• Free and Open Source: OBS is completely free, making it accessible to streamers of all levels.
• Customization: OBS allows you to fully customize your stream layout, transitions, scenes, and sources.
• High-Quality Streaming: You can stream in high resolution with OBS, ensuring your content is delivered with optimal clarity.
• Advanced Plugin Support: OBS supports third-party plugins like Restream, Streamlabs, and others that allow you to multistream with ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Multistream with OBS

Let’s walk through the process of setting up multistreaming in OBS. This guide will cover both free and paid options, including third-party services like Restream and Streamlabs, as well as manual methods using custom RTMP servers.

Step 1: Download and Install OBS Studio

First, make sure you have the latest version of OBS Studio installed on your computer. You can download it from the official website here. OBS Studio is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Step 2: Set Up Your Streaming Platforms

To multistream, you will need to connect OBS to multiple streaming platforms. Popular platforms include:

• Twitch
• YouTube
• Facebook Live
• Twitter (formerly Periscope)
• LinkedIn Live

Each platform has its own stream key, which you will need to input into OBS. Here’s how you can find the stream key for each platform:

1. Twitch: Go to your Twitch Dashboard, navigate to Settings > Stream, and copy your stream key.
2. YouTube: In your YouTube Studio, click Create > Go Live, then navigate to the Stream tab to find your stream key.
3. Facebook: In Facebook Live Producer, you can start a new live stream and retrieve the stream key from the settings panel.

You can also choose to multistream to custom RTMP servers, giving you more control over the broadcast process.

Step 3: Choose Your Multistream Method

There are two primary methods for multistreaming with OBS:

1. Using Third-Party Multistreaming Services: Platforms like Restream and Streamlabs provide an easy way to multistream. They offer cloud-based solutions, allowing you to send your OBS feed to one server, which then distributes it to multiple platforms.
2. Manual Multistreaming via OBS Plugins: Alternatively, you can use plugins to manually multistream to multiple platforms from OBS.

Let’s explore both methods in more detail.

Method 1: Multistream with Restream (Third-Party Service)

One of the most popular multistreaming services is Restream. Restream allows you to broadcast to over 30 different platforms at once, and it offers both free and paid plans.

1. Create a Restream Account

• Visit the Restream website and create a free account.
• After signing up, log in to the Restream dashboard.

2. Connect Streaming Platforms

• In the Restream dashboard, click on Add Channel.
• Select the platforms you want to multistream to, such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live. You’ll need to authorize each platform or provide the stream key.

3. Configure OBS for Restream

• In OBS, go to Settings > Stream.
• In the Service dropdown, select Restream.io.
• Click Connect Account (Recommended) to log in, or manually input the Restream stream key.

4. Start Streaming

• Once connected, click Start Streaming in OBS, and Restream will distribute your live stream to all connected platforms.

Method 2: Multistream with OBS Plugins (Manual Setup)

If you prefer not to use a third-party service, you can multistream directly from OBS using plugins. The most popular option for this is the OBS Multistream Plugin.

1. Install OBS Multistream Plugin

• Download the OBS Multiple RTMP Plugin from the OBS Plugin Repository.
• Follow the installation instructions, and once installed, restart OBS.

2. Configure Multiple Outputs

• After installing the plugin, open OBS and go to Tools > Multiple Output.
• Click Add New Target, then enter the stream key and server URL for each platform you want to multistream to (e.g., Twitch and YouTube).
• You can add multiple targets depending on the number of platforms you wish to stream on.

3. Start Multistreaming

• Once your platforms are set up, click Start Streaming. OBS will now broadcast your content to all the configured platforms simultaneously.

Optimizing Your Multistream Setup in OBS

To ensure a smooth and high-quality multistream, it’s essential to optimize your OBS settings.

1. Adjust Bitrate and Resolution

• Since multistreaming can put extra strain on your network, reduce your stream’s bitrate and resolution to ensure stability.
• Go to Settings > Video and adjust your Output Resolution. For most platforms, streaming in 720p at 2500-4000 kbps works well.
• If your internet connection is strong, you can increase the resolution to 1080p and the bitrate to 4500-6000 kbps.

2. CPU Usage Preset

• Multistreaming demands more from your computer, so it’s important to select a CPU Usage Preset that matches your hardware’s capabilities.
• In Settings > Output, choose a lower preset like Superfast or Veryfast if your CPU struggles with higher settings.

3. Monitor Your Stream Health

• OBS has built-in tools that help you monitor the performance of your stream. Keep an eye on the Dropped Frames, Bitrate, and CPU Usage displayed at the bottom of the OBS window to ensure everything is running smoothly.

Ready to monetize your talent?

Take the next step in monetizing your talent and turning your passion into profit. Explore our platform’s monetization features and start earning from your live performances today.

Get started now!

Multistreaming Tips for Success

Multistreaming can be incredibly beneficial, but there are some best practices you should follow to ensure a smooth experience:

1. Use High-Speed Internet: Since you are streaming to multiple platforms at once, ensure your internet connection can handle the extra load. A stable upload speed of at least 10 Mbps is recommended.
2. Engage with All Platforms: Make sure to engage with audiences on all platforms. Use tools like Restream Chat to monitor comments and interact with viewers across multiple channels.
3. Brand Consistency: Maintain consistent branding across all platforms, from logos to overlays, to build a recognizable identity.
4. Monitor Platform-Specific Requirements: Different platforms have unique streaming requirements (e.g., bitrates, video resolutions). Ensure you meet these to avoid quality issues.

Why Choose Liveroomsz for Multistreaming Your Performances?

At Liveroomsz, we understand the importance of reaching audiences on multiple platforms. That’s why our platform supports multistreaming with OBS, making it easy for artists to broadcast their performances to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and beyond.

Maximize Your Reach with Liveroomsz

Whether you’re a musician, comedian, or performer, Liveroomsz lets you multistream with ease, increasing your audience reach and engagement.

Sign up today and start multistreaming your performances across platforms with our integrated OBS setup.