Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Use OBS Studio to combine the radio station’s audio with a rotating image slideshow, then send the scene to a YouTube live stream. Before you start, confirm you have permission to rebroadcast the station and use every image; YouTube scans live streams for third-party content and can interrupt a broadcast over a match.
Before you set up the stream
Confirm rebroadcast and image rights
Listening to a station does not give you the right to rebroadcast it on YouTube. Confirm that the station’s permissions cover live streaming on YouTube and the relevant territory. Use background images you own or have permission to use for this purpose.
YouTube says it scans all live streams for matches to third-party content. If it detects a match, it may replace the stream with a placeholder image, issue a warning, or interrupt or terminate the stream if the content continues. Even licensed material can cause an interruption if the rights holder has not added your channel to its Content ID allowlist. See YouTube’s live-streaming copyright guidance and resolve allowlisting with the rights holder before going live.
Identify the station feed
Get the station’s actual stream URL and determine its format. Whether OBS can use that URL directly depends on the feed format, your OBS version, and your setup; do not assume every station URL will work as a source. If it does not, ask the station for a compatible feed or use an audio source method the station authorizes.
Recommended Free Tools
#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.
Install OBS and, if needed, VLC
OBS Studio is free and open source. Its VLC Video Source can play a media playlist and provides loop and shuffle options, but it is available only when VLC is installed. For 64-bit OBS, install the matching 64-bit version of VLC. See the OBS VLC Video Source guide.
Create the YouTube live stream
- In YouTube Studio, select Create → Go Live, then create a stream or schedule a broadcast.
- In the encoder setup, retrieve the YouTube server URL and stream key. Enter these in OBS when you configure its streaming connection. Keep the stream key private: anyone with access to it may be able to send a signal to your channel.
- If you schedule a broadcast, check the Live Control Room after OBS connects. Confirm that the preview shows the intended audio and visuals. When the broadcast is set to start manually, click Go Live in Live Control Room. YouTube’s encoder live-streaming instructions describe this workflow.
Build an OBS scene with radio audio and rotating images
Add the audio source
- In OBS, create a scene for the broadcast.
- Add the station feed using a source method compatible with its format and your setup. Confirm that its audio appears in the OBS mixer and that the source is not muted.
- Watch the mixer while the station plays. Keep the signal from clipping. If you use a browser or another player instead of a direct OBS source, check that desktop audio is not capturing the same station a second time.
Add and arrange the background
For a still-image rotation, add an OBS Image Slide Show source and select your cleared images. Set its timing and transition controls in the interface version you are using; a universal interval or transition value is not established here. Use a fixed sequence for predictable order, or choose shuffle if you want the order randomized.
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.
Alternatively, add a VLC Video Source and create a playlist of images or video items. Enable Loop Playlist to repeat the list; enable Shuffle Playlist if you want randomized playback. OBS describes this source as similar to an Image Slideshow. If you prefer a continuous motion background, OBS Media Source can play a compatible video file with its Loop property enabled. Keep the station audio on its own source so image or video playback does not determine whether the audio continues.
- Resize and crop the image source so it fills the OBS canvas without unwanted borders.
- Arrange the source order so any station logo or title overlay appears above the background. Use overlays only if you have the rights to them.
- Watch the scene preview long enough to confirm images change as intended and that the framing remains suitable for the whole sequence.
Connect OBS and verify the broadcast
- In OBS, open Settings → Stream, select the YouTube service, and enter the server URL and stream key supplied in YouTube Studio. Labels can vary with OBS versions.
- Start streaming from OBS. Check the YouTube Live Control Room preview for both the picture and audio before starting a scheduled broadcast manually.
- Listen for uninterrupted station audio, confirm the mixer does not clip, and observe at least one image change. Leave the setup running long enough to notice connection or playback problems before announcing the stream.
If you are unsure about encoder settings, OBS’s Auto-Configuration Wizard is a starting point for basic settings. OBS notes that increasing dropped-frame counts can indicate an unstable connection or a bitrate your connection cannot sustain. See the OBS streaming guide and FAQ; the appropriate settings depend on your connection and output requirements, so do not treat one bitrate as suitable for every setup.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteRank #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.
Plan for scheduled broadcasts and longer runs
YouTube distinguishes a stream, which carries the audio-video signal and delivery settings, from a broadcast, which is a distinct YouTube video. YouTube documents reusing an encoder stream for recurring broadcasts. A recurring stream setup therefore does not make one broadcast an indefinite event.
YouTube Help says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. For a continuous radio schedule, plan how and when to end and restart broadcasts, and decide how you will handle resulting archives. The cited guidance does not establish unattended operation beyond that threshold, so do not assume one broadcast can run indefinitely.
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
Troubleshoot common problems
- The station URL will not play in OBS: The feed may use a format or delivery method your source cannot handle. Verify the URL and format with the station, then use a compatible, authorized source method rather than assuming all internet radio URLs work directly.
- The YouTube preview has no audio: Check that the station source is playing, visible in the OBS mixer, and not muted. If using an external player, check the chosen capture method and avoid routing the same audio through duplicate sources.
- The audio is distorted or too loud: Watch the OBS mixer and reduce the source level until it no longer clips. Recheck it with louder passages from the station.
- The background is static: Confirm the slideshow has multiple images and that its timing is configured, or verify that the VLC playlist is loaded and playing. If using VLC, confirm VLC is installed and matches OBS’s architecture.
- The playlist stops at the end: Enable Loop Playlist for a VLC Video Source. For an image slideshow, inspect the source’s current playback and transition settings.
- YouTube shows a copyright warning or interrupts the stream: Stop and resolve the rights issue with the station or rights holder. Confirm the license covers YouTube live streaming and ask the rights holder about adding your channel to its Content ID allowlist; a license alone may not prevent automated interruption.
- Dropped frames increase: Check network stability and whether the configured bitrate exceeds what the connection can sustain. Use OBS’s Auto-Configuration Wizard as a basic starting point, then test before relying on the stream.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is an always-on YouTube channel playing uploaded recordings rather than a live radio feed, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, and it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo plays uploaded videos, not a live camera or an internet radio URL. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start the free day.
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.
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.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
