Console gaming & audio streaming optimisation

 

HOW DO I OPTIMIZE THE AUDIO SETTINGS FOR MY GAME CONSOLE STREAMING SESSIONS?

 

In the world of streaming, audio quality is an essential element in terms of providing an immersive experience for your viewers. Whether you’re a console gamer who loves playing solo games, or a console gamer who’s really into multiplayer games and looking for interaction, sound clarity can make all the difference.

This tutorial is designed to guide you through setting up your Hercules Stream 200 XLR audio mixer, in order to optimize every nuance of sound in your streaming sessions. Let’s take a look at the steps you need to take to get the best possible sound that will enhance your voice, the game’s sound effects, and much more.

How to set up my audio controller for solo game console stream with XLR mic
STREAM 200 XLR

How to set up my audio controller for multi game console stream with XLR mic
STREAM 200 XLR

Understand the audio needs for streaming

To succeed in streaming, it’s of crucial important to understand the specific requirements in terms of audio. High-quality audio involves more than just a clear voice: it also encompasses the sounds in your games, the background music, and other sound elements that contribute to an immersive experience. Before we dive into setting up your audio controller, let’s take a moment to understand these needs so that we can take care of everything that needs to be done.

Choose the right audio controller

Choosing the right audio mixer for your needs is the first crucial step. Consider the number of inputs that you’ll need to connect your microphone, game console, and other devices. Audio quality, compatibility with your hardware, and other features specific to your needs must also be taken into account. At Hercules, we’ve developed the Hercules Stream 200 XLR audio controller, which can meet all the needs of game console streamers — whether it’s for solo or multiplayer gaming sessions!

Connect the mixer and your devices

Making the connections for your Hercules Stream 200 XLR couldn’t be simpler. Everything has been designed to let you easily connect your game console, XLR microphone and headphones.

Here are the connections that you’ll need to make:

  1. The power cable (USB-C)
  2. USB headphones
  3. XLR microphone
  4. The game console, via the optical port

Configure the audio settings

Once all of the elements are connected, it’s time to dive into the audio settings. The included software lets you very easily manage up to 8 different sources: OBS, microphone, game console, music, Discord, Web browser, etc. It also allows you to manage the different scenes — but, most importantly, to independently manage the audio for the creator (you) and the sound that will be heard by your audience. Find out how to adjust the gain, equalize your sound, and mix the different audio sources to achieve a perfect balance.

Test and adjust the audio levels

The testing phase is crucial to ensure optimal audio quality during your streaming sessions. Learn how to perform live tests and adjust the audio levels according to the game and context. Also, discover how to use audio feedback to ensure that each sound element is properly balanced, avoiding potential problems during your livestream.