Co-Lecture with Jayvounter : Hardware & Gear Guide for Vtuber

Basic VTuber Hardware & Gear Guide

Hey, aspiring VTubers! Ready to set up a reliable streaming environment? This guide has been personally co-reviewed by JayVounter, a seasoned specialist with hands-on experience helping both indie and corporate VTubers build their streaming setups. With his expert insights, you can trust these recommendations to elevate your content effectively. Whether you're a beginner or aiming to refine your setup, these essentials will support your goals. And remember to consider your specific content needs—popular gear isn’t always the best fit!

💻 PC vs. Laptop for Streaming

The first decision is between a PC and a laptop:

• PC: Provides more power for the price and is easier to upgrade.
• Laptop: Ideal for portability and limited space. A decent gaming laptop starts around $1,000 USD.

Choose whatever fits your situation!

🎙️ Choosing Your Microphone: USB vs. XLR

Quality audio is key to professional streaming:

• USB Microphones: Plug-and-play for easy setup.
• XLR Microphones with Audio Interface: For those who need higher-quality sound and future upgrade flexibility, an interface like the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen or Audient iD14 MK2 is worth an investment.

Choose from the purpose you'll be using.
Are you a singer? Just Chatting? Want to explore ASMR?

🎧 Headphones

Choose based on your streaming needs:

• Consumer Headphones: Great for casual streaming.
• Professional Monitor Headphones: Ideal for accurate audio quality.

For casual streams, any good headphones will do. But if you're diving into serious audio work, invest in professional monitors—because true sound demands precision.

🎙️ ASMR Setup

If ASMR is your niche, try the high-end one, 3Dio FS Pro II, or the budget one, AKG Lyra. These microphones provide realistic, immersive sound perfect for ASMR streaming. 

For authentic ASMR, a condenser mic with a stereo or binaural diaphragm is ideal. The 3Dio FS Pro II captures immersive 3D sound, while the AKG Lyra offers a budget-friendly alternative with versatile stereo capture modes.

🎥 Webcams & Handcams

For hand-tracking or additional camera angles, a 1080p 60fps webcam is recommended for both model tracking and IRL content. This allows flexibility for unique content like handcam and bodycam streams.

🎮 Capture Cards

If you're streaming from multiple devices, game consoles, a capture card is essential. Highly recommended options include:

• Elgato Game Capture HD60 S+
• Razer Ripsaw HD

If you're using an iPad or iPhone and want to share your screen on OBS, you can reduce latency by using a capture card with the right HDMI adapter. This setup offers a faster, more stable connection compared to screencasting, which relies on Wi-Fi and can introduce delays.

🔧 Additional Equipment

Optimize your production quality with these extras:

• Stream Deck: Quick access to commands and controls.
• Mic Stand: Position your mic precisely.
• Extra Monitor: Essential for multitasking.
• Lighting: Smooth, adjustable lighting options from brands like Nanlite and Elgato improve webcam tracking quality.

Basic VTuber streaming equipment typically includes a PC or laptop, a smartphone (preferably an iPhone for high-quality face tracking), and a good-quality microphone. A second monitor is highly recommended to manage stream controls and chats more easily. Additional equipment, like lighting and a green screen, can be added based on your budget and streaming needs.

📋 Explore More

Gain deeper insights and in-depth commentary from our exclusive live lecture sessions, available only to NEXAS talents. Good luck building your dream setup, and happy streaming!

Jay made a very comprehensive guide on how to record for mixing cover as well, go check them out! Recording Guide Thread(Currently available only in Thai)