OBS captions for viewers: audio sources, text layers, and translation
Choose between OBS text and on-screen text
An overlay visible to the streamer is not necessarily visible to viewers. To put captions in the scene, use an OBS text source fed by a compatible tool or verify that the video source captures the overlay. If captions are only for you, read the Aurora alongside OBS guide for PC audio capture and overlay limits.
A local route inside OBS
- Decide whether to caption your microphone, one app, or both. OBS can capture one application’s audio separately on Windows. Watch the mixer to confirm the intended source moves when the right person speaks.
- Avoid capturing the same device in both Desktop Audio and an individual source. OBS warns that duplicate audio sources can cause echo. If Application Audio Capture cannot isolate an app, its guide describes virtual audio cable routes.
- For recognition and text inside OBS, consider LocalVocal: the local plugin adds a filter to a speech source and can send the result to a text source or stream captions. Check its OBS version requirement, languages, and options before installing it.
- Add the text to the scene and adjust contrast, size, position, and safe margins. Make a short recording and inspect the finished file with sound: the preview alone cannot show whether the final video is readable or the voices are in sync.
OBS’s sources guide explains creating and ordering layers. Keep separate the audio your audience hears, the audio your caption tool receives, and the text your audience sees; each can require a different configuration.
Where Aurora fits
Aurora Subtitles listens to Windows system audio or microphone input and shows captions or translations in a configurable overlay. It is useful when your priority is reading them on your own desktop, including outside OBS. If you want to broadcast that overlay, check in a recording that your chosen video source captures it; do not assume automatic integration with an OBS text source. Review languages and requirements before buying.