To show the current playlist filename in an OBS YouTube Live stream, play the playlist through an OBS VLC Video source and place a separate OBS text source over it. The text source needs to receive updated text when VLC changes items: try the TUNA plugin’s text-file output, or use a custom OBS script to write the current item’s filename to a text file. TUNA is a community-reported option, not a guaranteed feature, so test it with your OBS version, operating system, plugin, and media before relying on it live.
What you need
- OBS Studio and VLC installed. OBS’s Media Sources guide says the VLC Video source supports playlists; for 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. OBS Media Sources guide
- A playlist in an OBS VLC Video source.
- A separate OBS text source for the overlay.
- A way to update a text file with the playing item’s filename when the playlist advances, such as TUNA or a custom script.
The overlay is not the same thing as VLC’s playlist or media title. VLC distinguishes an item’s path, optional playlist name, and title metadata. Embedded title metadata may be different from the filename, so choose deliberately which value to display.
Set up the playlist and overlay in OBS
- Install VLC. Match VLC’s architecture to OBS. The OBS guide specifies 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
- Add the video playlist. In OBS, add a VLC Video Source and configure its playlist. The exact controls can vary by OBS version; consult the Media Sources guide for the current source details.
- Add a text source. In the same scene, add a text source and position it over the video where the filename should appear. Configure the source to read from a text file, and select the file that your plugin or script will update.
- Connect item changes to the text file. The file must be refreshed when the playing playlist item changes. A static text file will display its existing contents but will not automatically know which VLC item is playing.
- Test transitions and the final stream output. Advance through several playlist items, check that the overlay updates and remains readable, then confirm the result in OBS’s preview and on a private or unlisted YouTube test stream before using it in a public broadcast.
Option 1: Try TUNA’s text-file output
OBS forum users have described using the TUNA plugin to write details about the playing file to a text file, then displaying that file with an OBS text source. One OBS forum member, HanZie82!, wrote on November 21, 2020: “TUNA will put all the info of playing file in text file, and in OBS you can use said text file to display right on the stream.” That is an individual community report, not an official OBS guarantee. OBS forum discussion
Reports are mixed: another OBS forum discussion mentions TUNA but includes a user report that it did not work for their video case. Compatibility may depend on the installed OBS, plugin, operating system, and media format. Treat TUNA as a route to test, not a dependable universal solution. OBS forum discussion
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Option 2: Build a custom script
OBS supports Lua and Python scripts. A custom solution can observe playlist-item changes, obtain the current item’s path, extract the final path component, and write it to the text file used by the OBS text source. OBS’s official scripting guide establishes that scripting is supported; it does not provide a ready-made filename-overlay recipe. The event handling, API calls, and cross-platform behavior need validation for the OBS version and environment you use. OBS Scripting Guide
When the requirement is the actual filename, have the script derive it from the item path rather than blindly displaying title metadata. For local files, the filename is usually the last component of the path. Remote URLs and URL-encoded paths require deliberate handling: encoded characters may need decoding, and a remote resource’s URL path may not correspond to a friendly filename. VLC’s API distinguishes the item path from title information, so verify the value for your media. VideoLAN VLC Lua API documentation
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Filename, title, and compatibility checks
- Confirm what the source is writing. If the overlay shows a polished title instead of the file’s name, check whether the output is using embedded title metadata or a playlist label.
- Test a deliberate mismatch. Use a test video whose embedded title differs from its filename. If the overlay must show the filename, confirm it displays the path’s final component rather than the embedded title.
- Test each relevant media type. Check local files and any remote URLs in your playlist separately; path formats and encoding can differ.
- Retest after updates. A plugin or script that works with one combination of OBS, VLC, and operating system is not thereby validated for every combination.
Troubleshooting
The text never changes
Check that the text source reads the same file the plugin or script updates, and that the update mechanism detects playlist changes. A text source only displays the file’s contents; it cannot infer the active VLC item on its own.
The overlay shows a title instead of a filename
VLC treats a media path and title metadata as distinct values. Change the handoff to use the item path and extract its final component, then test with a file whose embedded title is intentionally different.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
The plugin does not work with video files
Community reports include a video case where TUNA did not work. Verify the installed plugin and versions, try the exact media format used in production, and consider a custom script if the plugin cannot provide the needed value.
The displayed name is encoded or awkward for a remote item
Inspect the value being written. For remote URLs, decide how to decode URL-encoded characters and whether the last URL path component is an appropriate label; it may not be a human-friendly filename.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
VLC Video source is unavailable or fails to load
Confirm VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS. The OBS guide calls for 64-bit VLC when using 64-bit OBS.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Keep the live stream running without an OBS computer
If the goal is specifically to keep uploaded videos playing on YouTube when your computer is off, StreamNeo is a cloud alternative: upload a recording or playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It loops uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not provide this OBS text-overlay workflow or stream from a camera. Each slot supports uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. See StreamNeo for details.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Start a free day by registering at StreamNeo.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
