Gaming PC Mic for Zoom and Streaming

[charlie_kthrn]

Hello Everyone!

I hope you're all having a fantastic day. I've got a question that's been bugging me recently, and I thought this community would be the best place to turn to for some expert advice.

Context: I'm owner of a gaming PC (lenovo.com/de/de/d/gaming-desktops/), and lately, I've been using it for much more than just gaming. With the rise of remote work and online meetings, I've been wondering if I can use my gaming PC to stream during Zoom meetings. Additionally, I'm curious if my single gaming headset microphone will work for both streaming and Zoom.

Specifics:

• Error Codes: I haven't encountered any specific error codes, but I did notice some audio issues when trying to set up both streaming and Zoom.

• Device Type: My gaming PC is a custom-built rig with a powerful CPU, GPU, and a single 3.5mm gaming headset with microphone combo. I'm also using a Logitech webcam for video.

• Zoom Version: I'm currently using Zoom version 5.8.3 (the latest at the time of posting this).

Troubleshooting Steps Taken So Far:

1. Default Microphone: I've set my gaming headset microphone as the default recording device on my PC's audio settings.

2. Zoom Settings: In Zoom, I've selected my gaming headset microphone as the audio input device.

3. Testing: I've tested the microphone in Zoom, and it works fine when I'm speaking. However, when I try to stream simultaneously, the audio quality seems to drop on the stream.

• Is it possible to simultaneously stream on platforms like Twitch or YouTube while using Zoom for meetings on the same gaming PC?
• Can a single microphone (the gaming headset's built-in mic) work for both purposes without compromising audio quality? 

I'm open to the idea of investing in a separate microphone if that's the recommended path for achieving the best audio quality during both streaming and Zoom meetings. I'd appreciate any insights or tips from the community. If anyone has experience with this kind of setup or has encountered similar issues, please share your wisdom!

Thanks in advance,

Charlie

[ExpertswhoJohn]

The answer is simple.
You can use the same device for Zoom and gaming at different times.

You CAN use a different device for the two at a time.

If you want to simultaneously use the same device for both, you would have to add a third-party audio app to duplicate the audio so each could pick up separately.

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