How do I stream audio to Facebook Live?

Streaming live audio to Facebook is a great way to engage with your audience in real time. Whether you want to go live with a podcast, radio show, or music performance, Facebook Live makes it easy to broadcast your audio straight from your phone or computer.

What You Need to Broadcast Audio on Facebook Live

To get started streaming audio to Facebook Live, you’ll need:

A Facebook account and Facebook Page

The Facebook mobile app or access to Facebook on a desktop browser
A high-quality external microphone or audio interface
Audio cables to connect your audio device to your phone, computer, or streaming software

Reliable internet connection
(Optional) Streaming software like OBS or StreamYard

How to Go Live on Facebook With Audio

With the Facebook Mobile App

Streaming audio live from your phone is easy with the Facebook app. Here’s how:

Open the Facebook app and tap the “Live” icon in the status box.
Give your live video a title and description.
Tap “Go Live.”

Plug your external microphone into your phone using an audio cable or adapter.
Position your phone near your audio source and tap the mic icon to switch audio input to the external mic.
Monitor your audio levels and make any adjustments needed.

Tap “Finish” when you’re done broadcasting.

From a Desktop Browser

You can also go live from your desktop by:

Go to your Facebook Page and click “Go Live” in the status box.

Give your live video a title and description.
Click “Go Live.”
In your audio software like GarageBand or Audacity, select Facebook Live as the output.

Start your audio broadcast and monitor levels.
When finished, stop the live stream in your audio software.

With Streaming Software

For the most control over your audio stream, use streaming software like OBS or StreamYard:

Connect your external audio device to your computer.
Configure your streaming software with the audio device as input.
In the software, select Facebook Live as the destination and provide your Page details.

Customize your audio settings, overlays, and scene transitions in the software.
Start your live stream and monitor audio levels.
Interact with viewers’ comments on Facebook as you broadcast.

Stop the stream when you’re done.

Tips for Streaming Audio on Facebook Live

Use a High-Quality Microphone

Invest in a good USB or XLR microphone to deliver clear audio for your listeners. Condenser mics designed for vocals tend to work well.

Monitor Your Levels

Watch your audio meters and make sure your levels don’t peak. Normal speaking volume should register between -12dB to -6dB.

Use an Audio Interface

An external sound card or audio interface helps provide clean gain and minimizes interference.

Check Your Streaming Software Settings

Dial in your audio settings like bitrate, sampling rate, channel layouts in your streaming software for optimal quality.

Promote Your Live Stream

Hype up your audio broadcast on your other social media channels to drive listeners to tune in.

Interact With Your Audience

Acknowledge and engage with live commenters to build a connection.

Audio Broadcasting Tips

In addition to technical setup, follow these tips for a successful audio live stream:

Promote your event ahead of time across your social platforms.

Test your equipment and internet connection beforehand.
Keep your energy up and speak clearly throughout the broadcast.
Have backup audio ready to play if needed.

Interact with live commenters and respond to questions.
Keep videos under 90 minutes if possible to maintain engagement.
Analyze metrics afterward to improve for next time.

Common Issues and How to Troubleshoot

If issues arise during your Facebook Live audio stream, here are some troubleshooting tips:

Issue	Troubleshooting Tips
No sound or low volume	Check microphone or cable connections Adjust gain levels in software or on interface Switch to different audio input device Boost streaming bitrate
Echo or distortions	Reduce gain levels Adjust audio buffering settings Enable noise suppression Use pop filter on microphone
Stream disconnects	Check internet connection stability Try wired connection over WiFi Change to different streaming server or CDN Lower bitrate or resolution
Limited audience engagement	Promote stream schedule across platforms Engage and respond to more comments Run giveaways or contests to incentivize participation Analyze metrics to optimize content strategy

Conclusion

Broadcasting live audio to Facebook is an easy and powerful way to engage with your audience. With some preparation and the right tools, you can stream podcasts, music, radio shows and more. Focus on audio quality, interact with viewers, and troubleshoot issues promptly for best results.

Now you have a guide to help you successfully set up your own audio live streams on Facebook. Just go live, have fun, and bring meaningful content to your listeners!