Live Streaming with MediaShout and OBS
MediaShout works great with OBS (Open Broadcasting Software) to overlay lyrics and scripture on your live stream. This guide walks you through a low-cost streaming setup that keeps your Main Display for the congregation while streaming to Facebook, YouTube, or other platforms.
Before You Start
System Requirements: This setup uses OBS alongside MediaShout, which requires adequate computer resources. Test everything before going live. If you prefer a simpler, more reliable solution with minimal setup, consider our streaming partner BoxCast, which includes hardware, automatic stream management, recording, and hosting.
Important: We do not officially support OBS. For OBS-specific questions, consult the OBS community forums or OBS tutorials.
Choose Your Scenario
Pick the setup that fits your needs:
- Scenario 1 (Live Audience): Keep your Main Display for the congregation. Capture your Stage Display output for the stream. MediaShout continues to project in the room while OBS streams Stage content online.
- Scenario 2 (Online-Only): No in-room projection needed. Capture your Main Display for the stream. Use Stage Display for worship team confidence/notes only.
Step 1: Set Up MediaShout Displays
Configure MediaShout with both Main Display and Stage Display running, just as you normally would for a service. External monitors should be connected to your computer.
Step 2: Install and Configure OBS
Download and install OBS. When you launch it, go through the setup wizard. It will ask for your desired resolution—1920x1080 is standard HD, or use 1280x720 for less CPU strain. Choose the settings that work for your internet speed and computer.
Next, connect your streaming account (YouTube Live, Facebook, etc.). OBS will guide you through authentication and stream keys. If you get stuck, use the OBS Help or Settings panel.
Step 3: Add Your Video Input
In the OBS control window, click the + button under Sources to add a video input. If you have a webcam or camera connected, it will appear in the menu. Select it.
Confirm the device settings and resolution. Your video feed will now appear in the OBS preview.
Step 4: Add MediaShout Display Capture
Click the + button under Sources again, but this time select Display Capture.
OBS will ask which display to capture. Choose based on your scenario:
- Scenario 1: Select your Stage Display output
- Scenario 2: Select your Main Display output
Flip through the options until you see MediaShout content on a black background. That's the right one.
Step 5: Position MediaShout in Your Stream
In the OBS preview, drag the MediaShout layer to where you want lyrics or scripture to appear in the stream (usually lower third or corner).
Important: Make sure your MediaShout template has a solid background color (black works best). This color will become transparent in OBS, leaving only the text visible.
Step 6: Remove the Background Color (Color Key)
Right-click on the MediaShout layer in OBS and select Filters.
Click the + button and choose Color Key.
Select Custom Color and click the color picker. Choose the background color you're using in MediaShout (typically black or green). Click OK.
Now only your lyrics and scripture text appear in the stream, with the background transparent. Click Close when done.
Step 7: Add Audio from Your Soundboard
Click the + button under Sources and select your audio input device. You'll need to route audio from your church soundboard to your streaming computer via:
- A simple audio cable (3.5mm to dual 1/4") from your soundboard to your computer's audio input, or
- An external USB audio interface for better quality
OBS has advanced audio sync options if you need to delay video or audio to match—check the OBS documentation for details.
Step 8: Test and Go Live
In MediaShout, add your songs and content to the script as normal. If using Stage Display output, click Sync to Stage to send content from Main to Stage.
In OBS, preview your stream layout with video, MediaShout text, and audio working together. When everything looks good, click Start Stream.
You're live. Monitor your stream on your streaming platform (YouTube, Facebook, etc.) to confirm all layers are showing correctly.
MediaShout 6 vs. 7 Notes
MediaShout 7 users: Use the Sync to Stage button to transfer content from Main Display to Stage Display before streaming.
MediaShout 6 users: Click Edit Stage and delete or hide any extra elements (like "Next Line" tokens or "Stanza Name") that you don't want visible in the stream.
Performance & Troubleshooting
Running OBS and MediaShout together uses significant CPU. If you experience lag or dropped frames:
- Lower OBS resolution to 1280x720 or reduce frame rate to 24fps
- Close unnecessary programs
- Ensure your internet connection can handle your bitrate
For OBS-specific issues, consult the OBS forums or online tutorials.
Want Something Simpler?
If you'd rather skip the technical setup, BoxCast offers a plug-and-play streaming solution designed for churches. It includes hardware, automatic stream management, recording, hosting, and website embedding—with no advanced configuration needed.
Need Help?
For MediaShout-specific questions, email Support@MediaShout.com. For OBS support, visit the OBS community forums.
Learn More
Watch a recorded webinar on using OBS with MediaShout: Click here