As the quality of digital content creation continues to rise exponentially, it is crucial to take care of not only the visuals but also the audio. Whether you stream a videogame or record podcasts, it's always handy to split or combine multiple audio inputs. In the article below, we will explain what Virtual Audio Cable is, the different options to choose from, and the setup process behind them. Let's dive in!
What are Virtual Audio Cables?
Virtual Audio Cables, commonly called VACs, are software tools that integrate separate audio sources into one unified output and vice versa. These applications enable you to seamlessly blend multiple audio inputs and transmit them as a single audio feed into OBS Studio or as a microphone source in video games. A good example of VACs' practical use is merging a microphone input with music from an audio player or web browser. On top of that, some tools also give you in-depth mixing possibilities, such as control over the stereo panning of your audio sources.
Choosing a Virtual Audio Cable Software
VB-Cable
Our go-to solution. VB-Cable is probably the best Virtual Audio Cable tool for Windows. It has seamless integration with any application and a relatively easy setup process.
Pros
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Fast to install
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Free
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No additional software required
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Works well with Windows
Cons
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The setup process is a bit complicated
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More inputs and outputs are behind a paywall
VB-Audio VoiceMeeter
VB-Audio VoiceMeeter is basically the same piece of software as VB-Cable, but it's oriented towards real-time mixing and combining different sources into one. It has a nice graphical user interface which is easy to understand for everyone familiar with any other audio software.
Pros
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Easy to install
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Good Interface
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Has a mixing console
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Multiple outputs
Cons
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Lack of inputs (only 3)
Soundflower
Soundflower is a free and open-source alternative to the VB-Cable for Mac users.
Pros
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Mac compatibility
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Free
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Open-source
Cons
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Complicated setup process
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Does not support M1/M2 Macs
Loopback
Loopback is a premium alternative for Mac with a one-time purchase license. Its significant advantages over other tools are regular updates and an easy-to-use interface.
Pros
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User-friendly interface
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Easy to install
Cons:
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No volume control per source
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Not free
Configuring the Virtual Audio Cable on Your PC
The setup process for VAC tools might differ for different platforms and needs, but overall logic is pretty similar for any of the software mentioned above. Because VB-Cable is probably the most popular tool out there, we will stick with the instructions for it below.
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Download the VB-Cable tool.
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Extract the archive you just downloaded.
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Run the VBCable_Setup_x64.exe file as Administrator.
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Click on Install Driver, and reboot your PC after the installation.
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Open your System Settings and go to Sound.
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You will see new CABLE Inputs and Outputs.
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Adjust the format of your audio sources if needed.
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Open the software with the audio source you want to combine (Discord, for example) and route it into the CABLE Input.
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Add more audio sources, such as an audio player or anything else, if needed.
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Now you can select a configured CABLE Output as an input device in any software of your choice.
Take note: You need to use VB-Voicemeeter or VB-Voicemeeter Banana to have a full advantage over mixing your sources.
Video Tutorials
Practical Application Tips
Practical usage of Virtual Audio Cabels is diverse and can help you with many tasks. Here are several examples:
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Mixing and routing audio for live-streaming
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Recording audio from different sources into one track
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Easier management and mixing of preconfigured audio sources
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Enhancing audio quality for gaming and communication
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Ability to split audio sources for easier manipulation
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Connect and stream audio from different apps
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Content creation in video games
Conclusion
You can use Virtual Audio Cables for gaming, streaming, or audio recording. With extensive mixing possibilities of some software tools we discussed above, this technology is essential for any content creator or casual user. It's easy, handy, and will save a lot of your time and energy. Thank you for reading till the end. We hope this article helps with making your audio quality better <3
