Windows 11 · Windows
Fix OBS Recording or Stream With No Audio
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Trace the missing OBS source through device selection, mixer, monitoring, and track assignment, then verify with a fresh recording.
Identify the exact symptom and scope
Before changing missing OBS audio, identify the missing source and whether it fails in monitoring, the live mix, one recording track, or the saved file player. Write down the exact error, affected device or app, and when it occurs; retest that same symptom after each change. Keep the model, version, and last successful state available for official support.
Match the repair to the symptom
Trace one signal from operating-system device through OBS source, mixer, Advanced Audio Properties, track assignment, and output format.
Check source meters
Play sound and speak while watching Audio Mixer; no movement means OBS is not receiving that device or application.
Select exact devices
Set Desktop Audio and Mic/Aux explicitly or add dedicated sources, then avoid capturing one device twice.
Check mute and tracks
Unmute the source, open Advanced Audio Properties, and ensure it is assigned to the stream or recording track.
Verify the output file
Record a short test and open it in a player that exposes all audio tracks; remuxing does not create audio that was never captured.
Retest the original symptom
Meters move for the intended source and a fresh recording contains it on the expected track when played in a multi-track-aware player.
Troubleshoot missing OBS audio
If meters never move, monitoring works but output is silent, duplicate devices appear, or only one application bypasses Desktop Audio, stop broad resets and return to the last known state. Capture the exact error, versions, account or device scope, and the failed step before using the official support channel.
Video walkthrough
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.