Vtuber Guide: Preparations Before Streaming, Required Hardware and Software

Becoming a virtual streamer isn't difficult. The process may seem complicated, but as long as you master the key steps, you can smoothly start your streaming journey. This article is designed for complete beginners and will explain the essential preparations you need to make before going live: Virtual identity profile -> Creating a live2d virtual avatar model -> Preparing streaming content -> Setting up your streaming environment -> Clicking 'Go Live'. Let's get started now.

1. Build Your Virtual Identity Profile

Your virtual persona is the starting point of your streaming career. A persona is not just an attractive appearance—it also includes the character's voice, personality, speaking style, preferences, and other dimensions. The more detailed the persona, the more realistic the character becomes. A good virtual persona doesn't have to be perfect in every aspect; it must quickly create memorable points for the audience. For example, she/he could be a beautiful girl who loves singing and dreams of becoming an idol, a punk mage who can travel through the past and future, or a vampire who is active at night. In the early stages, character creation doesn't need to be overly complex. You can refer to the following character profile categories for inspiration and filling out your persona. The main categories are:

1. Basic Information (Name, Gender, Age, Race, Occupation, Birthday, Zodiac Sign, Hobbies, Favorite/Disliked Foods, Treasured Items, Theme Colors, Signature Items, etc.)
2. Appearance Features (Hair, Face Shape, Facial Features, Skin Tone, Body Type)
3. Outfit Design and Poses/Actions
4. Personality and Voice Characteristics: Personality Tags, Voice Traits
5. Worldview and Story Background
6. Other Information and Supplementary Settings

2. How to Communicate with Artists for Commissioned Artwork

After completing the character card, you will move on to the stage of creating the character's 2D illustration. If you have drawing skills, you can create it yourself. If you lack drawing expertise, it is recommended to commission your favorite artist on a professional platform such as Draw Market. These platforms provide rights protection for both parties involved in the commission, helping to avoid potential disputes over interests.

Commission Process

Step 1: Go to the Draw Market official website, and visit the commission page. Browse or search to find an artist whose style you like and whose prices meet your expectations. If you like the artist, you can follow their profile or add their showcase to your favorites.

Step 2: Go to the artist's showcase details page, select the usage scope, desired delivery time, and project description (you can upload your character card information). Once completed, click submit request, and the artist will receive your commission request.

Step 3: After the artist accepts your commission, they will contact you via the site's message system (top right corner) to discuss details. Once both parties have agreed on the specifics and negotiated the price, you will need to pay a deposit. The artist will then begin working on your commission. At key stages—sketch, coloring, and final draft—the artist will submit progress for your confirmation. Please make sure to reply promptly and clearly state any revision requests. The order is only considered complete after you have confirmed receipt of the final draft.

Pay special attention to two commission-related matters

1. Scope of Use: Personal use refers to non-commercial, non-profit purposes, typically for personal collection or self-printed materials; Commercial use refers to authorized commercial usage, usually for personal videos or other content creation, where the artist retains the copyright of the artwork—modifications and resale are not permitted; Buyout licence means purchasing the copyright outright, allowing for commercial profit, sale of related physical merchandise, etc., and is generally more expensive. Since VTubers often profit from livestreams and sell derivative merchandise, it is recommended to directly purchase a Buyout licence for the artwork.

2. In the early stages, be sure to communicate thoroughly with the artist to avoid delays caused by revisions later on. If you don't have a draft sketch, you can provide reference images of other characters to the artist. If it's a purely text-based design (no reference images, only a textual description of the character), the artist will have more creative freedom, and the price may also increase. Additionally, it's important to emphasize the character's key signature features.

3. VTuber character illustrations differ from regular artwork because they are used for subsequent costume/model creation and require high precision. It is best to find an artist with high drawing accuracy or experience in Live2D illustration splitting. When communicating with the artist, request that the delivered PSD file has the character illustration properly split and layered; otherwise, you will need to pay extra to hire a separate modeler to split the illustration.

Common character illustration splitting requirements

The livestream mainly focuses on the upper body of the character, so facial features, hair, and other details need to be meticulously separated. In the PSD layers, each layer must be accurately named. You can describe the separation requirements to the artist or model splitter as follows:

Head: Hair layers in front and back, each section separated
Facial features: Eyebrows, ears, eyes (eyelids, eyelashes, sclera, eyeballs), nose, mouth (open), cheeks, oral cavity and teeth
Body: Torso, arms and limbs, neck, clothing that is covered
Other decorative components

3. Creating Live2D model

After completing the character illustration, you should contact a modeler to create the Live2D model. With a clear, layered PSD file, the model creation process will be much smoother. The modeler will confirm with you the dynamic effects you want to achieve based on the illustration. Depending on the complexity of the illustration and the level of detail in the movements, production costs can range from 200-1500+$. Generally, unless it's for a professional or large-scale project, a Live2D model is sufficient for basic streaming needs. 3D models are more expensive and require more specialized and costly equipment for streaming. Here, we'll introduce the basic production process for Live2D models.

Required software for production: Live2D Cubism

This is the professional Live2D production software used universally. The official website also provides usage tutorials and instructions . The modeler will import your PSD file into the Cubism Modeler software, which will automatically generate various 'parts' based on the layers.

The second step is to create meshes and binding. For each layer, draw the mesh and use 'deformers' to adjust the movement 'parameters' of each mesh, presenting dynamic effects for various actions, such as turning the head left, right, up, or down, and the swaying of hair, clothing, and accessories. Automatic blinking and breathing cycles are also set to make the model more lifelike.

In addition to the standard character poses, if you have other action scenes, such as playing games or singing, or other facial expressions (starry eyes, angry, disdainful, darkened face, etc.), you need to confirm with the model artist the specific action effects you want to achieve in those scenarios and trigger them via hotkeys. For example, if your livestream mainly involves singing, you need to create standard mouth shapes for A, I, U, E, O, and closed mouth positions. This way, when you sing, the visual effect for viewers will be much more realistic.

After the rigging is completed, the modeler will send you a folder containing files such as .moc3, .json, or .physics3.json physics files. You can download the Live2D Viewer or VTuber Studio from Steam, import the model files to test and review them, and confirm any modification details with the modeler.

4. Setting Up the Livestream Environment

Now that you have the necessary character illustration and model for streaming, you can set up your streaming environment and prepare your content! Since streaming requires running both streaming software and game software simultaneously, it demands high hardware performance. Depending on your streaming scenario, you can refer to the following hardware and software recommendations.

1. Use a PC for streaming

Depending on your budget, you can choose between single-PC streaming or dual-PC streaming. Single-PC streaming means all software runs on one computer, which requires high performance; otherwise, in memory-intensive scenarios like live streaming games, the viewing experience may be significantly affected.

Dual-PC streaming uses two computers and requires a capture card. One computer runs essential streaming software such as VTuber Studio and OBS, while the other handles the actual live content. The advantage of this setup is that neither computer needs to be extremely high-end, but it does take up more desk space. Additionally, switching between the two computers when managing live and recorded materials can be a bit cumbersome.

Choose your computer configuration based on whether you use a single-PC or dual-PC streaming setup and your budget. If you opt for a single-PC streaming solution, the minimum recommended specs are as follows (*for reference only, please purchase according to your own needs). Streaming and VTuber Studio software are quite demanding on CPU performance, while game software requires both GPU and CPU power. Additionally, when running multiple programs simultaneously, 16GB of RAM may not be sufficient; 32GB of RAM is recommended.

CPU: i3-12100F / R5 3600
Graphics Card: RTX 2060 / RTX 3050
Memory: 16GB
Streaming Resolution: 1080P

Is a Mac computer suitable for live streaming? The answer is yes, but there are quite a few limitations. First, the plugin ecosystem for live streaming software like OBS and Streamlabs on Mac is not as complete as it is on Windows. Second, running large-scale games while streaming on a Mac is not as smooth as on Windows. Therefore, it is not recommended.

 

Hardware	High-performance PC/laptop (required) Camera (required) Microphone (required), or dedicated sound card device Capture card
Software (PC)	VTuber Studio—for motion capture of avatar models OBS (free), streamlabs, etc.—recommended streaming software Live streaming platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, TikTok

2. Mobile Live Streaming

It is recommended to use iOS/iPad, or a high-performance Android phone (for Android devices, please ensure that your device can properly run Google ARCore)

Pure mobile solution:

Option 1: Use the Live feature in TikTok or YouTube App to import the live2d model with

Option 2: Use the VTube Studio App together with the screen sharing feature of the TikTok/YouTube App to share the screen of the VTuber Studio App

PC + Mobile Linkage Solution:

Run OBS and VTuber Studio model software on your PC, then use third-party apps such as Streamlabs App or Larix App to connect to OBS on your computer and stream the video feed to your mobile device for live broadcasting

3. Microphone Selection

Depending on the type of interface, it is mainly divided into three categories:

The 3.5mm jack microphone is commonly found in regular music headphones. Its recording and noise reduction performance is average, but it is the most affordable option. It does not require an additional dedicated sound card, and prices range from tens to several hundred or even a thousand.

USB interface microphones: These offer moderate sound quality and connect to computers or mobile phones via USB, making them very convenient to use. No additional independent sound card is required, and the price ranges from several hundred to around one thousand. For beginner VTuber streamers, they are more than sufficient for everyday use and are highly recommended.

XLR Canon interface microphone: Requires use with a dedicated sound card, setup is relatively complex, but offers the best audio quality. It is also the most expensive option. Streamers who focus mainly on singing can consider upgrading to enhance their voice experience, but it is not recommended for beginner streamers.

4. Usage of Capture Cards

What is a capture card? The main function of a capture card is to transfer the display from one device to another. If you want to stream games from platforms like PS5, XBOX, or Nintendo Switch, you will need to purchase a capture card.

Commonly used external capture cards typically feature USB 3.0 or Type-C interfaces, with prices ranging from tens to over a thousand. The higher the price, the better the captured image quality and the lower the latency.

The capture card works best when paired with two HDMI cables and a monitor (secondary display) to reduce screen transmission latency. For example, if you want to transmit the PS5 console's display to a PC, you can refer to the following steps:

Step 1: Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDMI OUT port on the PS5 console dock to the IN port on the capture card

Step 2: Use the second HDMI cable to connect the OUT port of the capture card to the HDMI port of the monitor/TV

Step 3: Use a USB data cable to connect the capture card to the PC used for streaming

Step 4: On your main computer, go to the OBS interface and in the Sources window, click '+' to add a new Video Capture Device. From the list of existing devices, select the name of your capture card (if you have already connected the capture card via USB cable, OBS will automatically detect it). For audio settings,

In the mixer window - Advanced Audio Settings, set the capture card's game audio as a source and configure it to 'Monitor and Output'. This way, the game audio will be audible during the livestream.

4. VTuber Studio User Guide

After installing the hardware and software, you need to import your avatar into VTuber Studio. Refer to the following steps to import the avatar and configure the parameters. The navigation bar is on the left side of the interface, and the main commonly used functions are: model import and removal, background and accessory management, and model parameter settings.

Step 1: Import the suit file

Click the 'Import Model' button -> In the pop-up dialog, click 'Open Folder' -> The system will automatically open the VTuber Studio folder. In the Live2dModels folder, you can see free sample models from other software. Unzip the zip model file provided by the model creator and drag it into the folder. Once done, return to the VTuber Studio interface and click the import model button. You will see your model button at the bottom; click it and your model will be loaded and displayed.

Step 2: Turn on the camera and test the capture effect

Click the settings button in the VTuber Studio interface, then click the camera button in the upper left corner and select your camera. The software will request access to your webcam and begin capturing your facial expressions. You can blink, close your eyes, lean your upper body forward or backward, and sway left or right to see the dynamic effects displayed.

Step 3: Complete other parameter settings

You can further fine-tune the model parameters; here are some commonly used settings.

If your model includes additional expression/action switches (file format: .exp3.json), you can add and set hotkeys in the shortcut key and expression settings.

VTuber Studio offers powerful features. In addition to standard screen capture, you can explore other functions in the settings menu, which may lead to unexpected discoveries.

5. OBS Streaming Setup Guide

Now open OBS. Once you've finished setting up your stream, you can start broadcasting! It's a good idea to prepare a few stream covers, default background images, and temporary 'away' screens in advance. Also, go to File > Settings > General to configure preview, projection, and other general settings.

How do you display a Live2D model from VTuber Studio on your livestream broadcast screen?

Step 1: Go to VTuber Studio -> Click the second button on the navigation bar to change the background -> Scroll down to find 'Color Picker' -> Select and confirm -> Turn on the 'Transparent Streaming Switch' -> After finishing, click the × at the end of the navigation bar to hide it, adjust the model's position, and keep VTuber Studio in the foreground (do not minimize it)

Step 2: In OBS, go to 'Sources' and click '+', then add 'Game Capture'. Set the mode to 'Capture Specific Window', select VTuber Studio as the window, and check 'Allow Transparency'. Your avatar will now appear on the livestream screen, and you can adjust its position and size within the window.

Step 4: Decorate your streaming room. On the main interface, go to 'Source' and click '+' to add an image. You can upload a local background image to set up your streaming room decorations. You can also add text and apply filter effects to the text, such as a scrolling effect.

If you are streaming gameplay or running other applications, after opening the game/application window, go to OBS -> Sources -> Add new Game/Window Capture -> Select the software you want to capture -> Adjust the captured display as needed, and make sure to place the capture window for your avatar at the top of the source list to prevent it from being covered by other application windows.

Step 3: Live stream broadcast settings. Connect to your streaming platform account. Using Twitch as an example, go to your Twitch Creator Dashboard and click on 'Stream'. Copy your stream key, then open OBS and go to Settings > Stream. Select 'Twitch' as the service, paste the copied stream key into the stream key field, and click 'Confirm'. Generally, your stream key does not change, but it's best to verify it before each broadcast.

In the settings, adjust the following parameters; others can remain at their default values or be modified as needed:

Video Bitrate: The amount of video data transmitted per unit of time. Higher bitrate results in clearer image quality, but requires better internet speed for both you and your viewers. It is generally recommended to set the bitrate between 4000-6000.

Recording path: Change to another drive with more space, avoid saving to the C drive. For recording quality, select high quality or lossless to facilitate later video editing.

Audio: Select and adjust your audio device

Video -> General: Adjust the canvas resolution according to your monitor. Usually, 1920*1080 is sufficient, but you can also stream in 2K resolution.

Advanced -> Stream Delay: Set according to your own needs, usually used for special emergency situations, such as encountering inappropriate chat messages or unexpected streaming incidents. During the delay period, you can quickly respond and switch the screen to prevent such content from being broadcast to viewers.

After completing the above steps, click 'Start Streaming' in the bottom right corner of OBS to begin your Vtuber streaming journey!

6. Live Stream Begins! Important Things to Keep in Mind

1. For beginner VTubers, the focus should be on content planning and preparation rather than advanced equipment and special effects. You can upgrade your gear and stream visuals later based on feedback from your initial broadcasts.

2. During the livestream, the streamer needs to stay active and interact with fans at all times to avoid awkward silences in the stream. It's also important to remain patient and approachable, as there will be few followers at the beginning, and the streamer will often need to talk to themselves while live.

3. As a virtual streamer, your live broadcast scripts need to match your character and image. If you go out of character (OOC), it will significantly decrease your fans' viewing experience.

4. Pay attention to the rules of each streaming platform to avoid using prohibited language or streaming banned games/applications. Serious violations may result in your personal account being banned.

5. Maintain copyright awareness and pay attention to the copyrights of images, media, music, etc. For certain specific content streams, you need to confirm with the streaming platform in advance and obtain authorization from the copyright holder to avoid infringement. Also, your video clips are very likely to be edited and rebroadcast by users, which may lead to negative public opinion.

Conclusion

The success of a virtual streamer does not happen overnight; it often requires long-term dedication, carefully crafted engaging content, and active fan management and operations. Most importantly, it demands a genuine passion for this profession.

For more VTuber-related operation strategy guides, advanced tutorials on stream setup, and practical VTuber tools and resources, be sure to follow Draw Market to help every VTuber achieve their streaming dreams.