Note: This article will explain how to use Loopback to share pre-recorded audio in Crowdcast. If you don't wish to use a third-party tool, Chromium-based browsers (ie. Chrome, Brave, EDGE) do support sharing audio directly from a screen-share.
What is Loopback?
Loopback is a third-party software that enables you to combine the audio from multiple sources, including microphones, browsers, videos, and takes that combined audio into Crowdcast to be heard by all attendees.
Who is it for?
Loopback is for Mac users who are looking to play music or share a video during an in-browser Crowdcast event or session.
Where do I download it and is it free?
You can download Loopback and start your free trial here. After 20 minutes, noise is overlaid on any audio passing through an active virtual audio device. Turn the device off, then back on to reset the trial.
Once you've tested it out and you decide that it fits your needs you can purchase a license key for to unlock Loopback for a single user on one or more Macs.
We've worked with Rogue Amoeba to get you an exclusive discount. Use coupon code CROWDCAST10 to save 10% off Loopback.
What if I have more questions regarding Loopback?
For questions about Loopback, please contact the experts themselves over at Loopback's Support Center.
How to use Loopback
Once you've downloaded and installed the trial or paid version of Loopback, you'll create a new virtual audio device, which will combine audio from your microphone and your desired media playing app(s).
1. Click the New Virtual Device button to create a new device, and give it a descriptive name. Here, the device's name has been set to “Loopback and Crowdcast" by clicking on the pencil to edit.
2. You won't use the Pass-Thru source which is included by default, so remove it by clicking to highlight it, then press the Delete button.
3. Add the desired audio sources by clicking the (+) button next to the Sources header. As seen below, the “Spotify” app source has been added, as well as the iMac's Microphone device called “iMac Microphone”.
4. You'll notice the audio levels moving when you start talking through your microphone or playing your music or second audio source.
5. The volume of your audio sources is controlled through that specific source and not within Loopback. For example, if I wanted "Spotify" to be in the background while I'm talking, I'll lower the volume from within "Spotify."
6. The main volume control is located under your Devices.
At this point, the virtual device is now ready for use throughout your system. It will remain available until you toggle it off or delete it, even when Loopback isn't actively running.
How to connect Loopback to Crowdcast
Now that you've created your virtual device, you'll need to select it as the input device within Crowdcast.
1. Enter the greenroom.
2. Hover over your video to reveal the audio/video menu and click on the gear icon to change your microphone source.
3. You'll then see a pop up where you can choose your microphone. From the dropdown menu select Loopback as your microphone and click Save.
And that's it!
Your Crowdcast events will now contain all the audio you specified. Audio from both your microphone, as well as any other apps you've added, will automatically be merged together by Loopback into a virtual audio device. Crowdcast will see this virtual device as a normal microphone, and all the desired audio will be heard by your attendees.
Run through a few tests and listen to the replay or register as an attendee from a different device so you can hear what your attendees will hear during your event.
For questions about Loopback, please contact the experts themselves over at Loopback's Support Center.
Have questions or suggestions? Email us at [email protected]. Happy Crowdcasting! 🎥