Microphone Setup

If you're just getting started, a USB microphone is usually the easiest choice. It connects directly to your computer and gives you solid quality without extra gear like an audio interface.

Mic placement matters just as much as the mic itself. Keep these basics in mind:

• Distance: Keep the microphone roughly 6 to 12 inches from your mouth.
• Angle: Aim it slightly off-axis to reduce plosives like harsh "p" and "b" sounds.
• Mounting: Use a boom arm or stand to keep the mic stable and reduce desk noise.

Once the mic is in place, dial in these settings inside your streaming software:

• Input Device

  In OBS, Streamlabs, or your preferred software, choose your microphone as the input device.

• Gain Levels

  Set the gain so your voice sounds full and clear without peaking. Staying in the green to low yellow range is a good target.

• Monitoring

  Use headphones while monitoring so you can catch echo, hum, or feedback before viewers do.

These filters can help your microphone sound cleaner and more controlled:

• Noise Suppression

  Helps remove steady background noise like fans or room hum.

• Compressor

  Balances loud and quiet moments so your voice stays more consistent.

• Equalizer (EQ)

  Shapes your tone so your voice sounds clearer and easier to understand.