what are voicemeeter outs

3 min read 24-01-2025

VoiceMeeter, a powerful free audio mixer, can seem daunting at first. Understanding its outputs is key to mastering its capabilities. This guide breaks down VoiceMeeter's outputs, explaining their functions and how to use them effectively. We'll cover everything from basic setup to advanced configurations.

Understanding VoiceMeeter's Output System

VoiceMeeter's strength lies in its flexible routing capabilities. Unlike simpler mixers, it allows you to send audio to multiple destinations simultaneously. This is achieved through its distinct output buses:

A1: This is your primary output. It's generally what you'll use to send audio to your default Windows playback device (your speakers or headphones). Think of it as your main audio output for everything happening in VoiceMeeter.
A2: A second, completely independent output. This allows you to simultaneously send audio to a different device, application, or even a streaming platform like Twitch or YouTube. Imagine using A1 for your headphones and A2 for your livestream audio.
Virtual Output (VB-Audio VoiceMeeter VAIO): This isn't a physical output like A1 and A2, but rather a virtual one. It acts as a software-based audio source that other applications can access. This is incredibly useful for routing audio into streaming software or other applications that need a specific input source. This is often used in conjunction with a dedicated audio interface and software such as OBS, Streamlabs or XSplit.
Hardware Output (Physical): This refers to the physical output jacks (if applicable). Many use a dedicated audio interface in conjunction with VoiceMeeter, leveraging this physical output for high-quality recordings and monitoring. If you don't have an audio interface, this simply references the primary (A1) and secondary (A2) output options.

How to Use VoiceMeeter Outputs Effectively

The power of VoiceMeeter comes from customizing how each input source is routed to these outputs. Here's a breakdown of common scenarios and how to configure them:

1. Basic Setup: Headphones and Speakers

Scenario: You want to hear your microphone and other audio sources both through your headphones and speakers.
Configuration: Route your microphone and other inputs to both A1 (speakers) and Hardware (physical).

2. Streaming Setup: Separate Audio for Stream and Headphones

Scenario: You're streaming and want separate audio mixes for your viewers and for your own listening.
Configuration: Route your microphone to both A1 (headphones) and A2 (streaming software). Route your game audio or music only to A2. This lets you monitor your stream audio in your headphones without it being picked up by your microphone. This eliminates feedback.

3. Advanced Setup: Multiple Applications and Devices

Scenario: You're using multiple applications (e.g., a game, music player, and voice chat) and want to control their individual audio routing.
Configuration: This requires careful routing of each input to the desired outputs (A1, A2, Virtual Output) within VoiceMeeter. This allows you to control the audio volume and balance between your different applications.

4. Using the Virtual Output (VB-Audio VoiceMeeter VAIO)

Scenario: You want to send your audio to a streaming program or another application.
Configuration: Many streaming programs (OBS Studio, Streamlabs Desktop, etc.) will recognize the VB-Audio VoiceMeeter VAIO as an input source. Simply select it as your audio source within your streaming software. Configure your input routing in VoiceMeeter to send the desired audio to the VAIO.

Troubleshooting Common VoiceMeeter Output Issues

No sound: Double-check your Windows sound settings. Ensure VoiceMeeter's outputs are selected as your default playback devices.
Feedback/Echo: This usually means your microphone is picking up audio from your speakers. Reduce your microphone input gain or adjust your routing to prevent audio loops.
Audio clipping: Reduce the output volume levels in VoiceMeeter to prevent distortion.

Conclusion

Understanding VoiceMeeter's outputs is crucial for harnessing its full potential. By mastering its routing capabilities, you can create sophisticated and customized audio workflows for gaming, streaming, music production, and more. Experiment with different configurations to find the setup that best suits your needs. Remember, the virtual output (VAIO) is your key to integrating with other applications. This opens a huge range of advanced audio routing possibilities.