Commentary transforms a camera feed into an experience. Whether you are calling a match, narrating a ceremony, or providing context during a school show, live commentary keeps viewers engaged and gives them a reason to stay. Here is how to set it up.
Microphone options
A headset microphone is the simplest option for solo commentary. It keeps the mic at a consistent distance from your mouth and blocks out ambient noise. USB headsets work directly with OBS and most streaming software.
For a more professional setup, a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM58 on a short desk stand gives rich, broadcast-quality audio. Connect it via an audio interface to your computer. This is the setup used by most sports commentators.
Mixing commentary with ambient sound
Viewers want to hear the crowd, the whistle, and the atmosphere alongside the commentary. The best approach is to use two audio sources in your encoder: one for the commentary microphone and one for ambient sound from a second mic or a feed from the venue PA.
In OBS, set the commentary mic slightly louder than the ambient audio. Use the audio mixer to balance the two so the commentary is always clear but the atmosphere comes through in the gaps.
Remote commentary
If your commentator cannot be at the venue, they can join remotely via a voice call or video call. Tools like Discord, Zoom, or even a phone call can feed audio into OBS via a virtual audio cable or the system audio capture.
The remote commentator watches the stream on a slight delay and provides commentary based on what they see. This works well for matches and events where play-by-play accuracy is not critical.
Add commentary, add value
Commentary makes your stream worth paying for. PassCast makes it easy to stream with professional audio and charge viewers for the experience.
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