A Full Guide to OBS Studio Separate Audio Tracks (2026)

Learn how OBS Studio Separate Audio Tracks work. We'll cover what split tracks are and all the steps you need to record separate audio tracks on OBS.

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

7 min read

Recording separate audio tracks when you’re podcasting gives you invaluable control and the ability to edit precisely during post-production.

Unfortunately, not all recording software includes this feature. Luckily, OBS Studio, one of the most popular free and open-source podcasting platforms out there, does.

In this article, we’ve created a full guide to recording audio on separate tracks using OBS Studio.

TL;DR

OBS Studio is a free and open-source video and live-streaming platform.
Split audio gives you invaluable control during editing & makes it easier to repurpose your content.
You can record up to 6 separate audio tracks with OBS Studio by toggling your output settings.
Riverside makes recording split audio and video even easier because it automatically records up to 10 participants on individual tracks.

What does it mean to split an audio track?

Split audio means recording each source of audio onto an individual track. In a podcasting context, each participant is recorded onto their very own audio track.

Benefits of split audio

More control during editing

The first major advantage of split audio is that you get far more control over how you edit and manipulate your recording during post-production. You can easily eliminate glitches or mistakes in the audio or dialogue without impacting the overall recording.

Easier to repurpose

Another huge benefit of split audio is that it is much easier to repurpose your recordings. Since you have isolated tracks rather than all your audio funneled onto one, you can choose to play with just one audio source to create promotional material, highlight key quotes, and more.

Can you record split audio tracks in OBS?

Yes, you can record on OBS with up to 6 separate audio tracks at once. Follow our guide below to get yourself set up properly.

How to record on OBS studio with separate audio tracks

Here’s a full guide on how to record separate audio tracks on OBS Studio:

Step 1: If you haven’t already, download OBS Studio for free from the website.

Step 2: Once you’re all set up, head to your OBS audio settings from the lower-right corner of your OBS Studio window.

Step 3: Then head to the ‘Output’ tab of your settings window.

Step 4: Toggle the ‘ Output Mode’ to ‘ Advanced’ then click on the ‘Recording’ tab.

Step 5: Tick Audio Track 1 - 6, according to the number of tracks that you want to record.

Riverside: An OBS alternative for split audio tracks

Though OBS Studio is a great option for creators or podcasters, especially those on a budget, it’s not the only platform out there. There are many OBS alternatives.

What is Riverside?

Riverside is a browser and app-based podcasting platform. Its key USPs include automatic local and multitrack recording, the ability to record both video and audio, and an in-built intuitive editor.

Key Features of Riverside

Remote recording. You can record with up to 10 remote participants on Riverside.
Multitrack recording. Riverside automatically records every participant’s audio, video and screen captures on individual, separate tracks.
Local recording. Each guest is always recorded directly on their own device rather than over the internet.
HD video and audio. You can rely on Riverside for studio-quality results, with up to 4K video and 48kHz WAV audio.

Recording split audio with Riverside

Recording split audio with Riverside is straightforward because it’s a default setting. Just hit record and Riverside will capture each of your guests’ audio and video on an individual track.

Step 1: Create your Riverside account if you haven’t already. Log in.

Step 2: Click the purple ‘+ New Studio’ button in your dashboard.

Step 3: Name your studio and select your recording type. If you’re ready to record right away, you can click ‘Enter Studio’.

Step 4: When you hit ‘Enter studio’, you’ll first be invited to check your camera and microphone in the lobby.

Step 5: When you’re happy, click ‘Join Studio’.

Step 6: Once you’re in the studio, invite your guests using the ‘copy link’ or ‘invite by email’ button.

Step 7: When everyone is ready, hit the red record button and enjoy your session. Each participant will be recorded on their individual track.

Step 8: Once you’ve finished, click the red record button to stop your session. Wait for all files to upload, then click the red ‘leave’ button and ‘end session for all’ to end your recording session.

FAQs on OBS Split Audio Tracks

How do I split two audio tracks in OBS?

OBS can record audio separately but you need to toggle your settings to do so.

Why is OBS not picking up desktop audio?

If OBS Studio isn’t correctly picking up your desktop audio, try checking your device settings and installed drivers.

How to record separate audio obs

Recording split audio with OBS is easy. Simply head to your advanced output settings and check boxes 1 - 6 to record 6 separate tracks.