Ultimate Guide: Using Elgato Stream Deck as a Soundboard for Games and Discord

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Setting up the Stream Deck
3. Downloading and Activating Sound Pad
4. Integrating Sound Pad with Stream Deck
5. Adding Sound Effects to Sound Pad
6. Adjusting Sound Settings
7. Testing the Sound Effects
8. Additional Features of Sound Pad
9. Troubleshooting Common Issues
10. Conclusion

How to Use Your Stream Deck as a Soundboard

The Stream Deck is a powerful tool that can be used for various purposes, including as a soundboard. In this article, we will guide You on how to set up your Stream Deck to play sounds with your friends or while playing games. Unlike other tutorials, we will Show you how to route the sound effects through your microphone so that others can hear them as well. So, let's get started!

1. Introduction

The Stream Deck is a versatile device that allows you to customize buttons with icons and actions. By integrating it with soundboard software, you can enhance your streaming or gaming experience by adding sound effects. However, most tutorials only demonstrate how to play sounds that are only audible to you. In this article, we will show you how to use your Stream Deck as a soundboard that others can hear.

2. Setting up the Stream Deck

Before we dive into the details, you need to have the Stream Deck software installed on your computer. If you haven't done so already, visit the Elgato Website and download the software. Install it and connect your Stream Deck to your computer. Once everything is set up, we can move on to the next step.

3. Downloading and Activating Sound Pad

To turn your Stream Deck into a fully functional soundboard, you will need to download and activate the Sound Pad software. Go to your favorite search engine and look for "Sound Pad" or visit the official website. Download the software and install it on your computer. Please note that while there is a free version available, you will need to purchase a license to unlock all the features. After purchasing the license, you will receive an email with the activation code.

4. Integrating Sound Pad with Stream Deck

Now that you have both the Stream Deck and Sound Pad installed, it's time to integrate them. Open the Stream Deck software and navigate to the "More Actions" section. Here, you can find add-on programs that can extend the functionality of your Stream Deck. Look for the Sound Pad integration by Bar Raider and install it. This integration allows you to control Sound Pad directly from your Stream Deck.

5. Adding Sound Effects to Sound Pad

Before you can start playing sound effects, you need to add them to Sound Pad. Open Sound Pad and Create categories to organize your sound effects. Right-click and select "Add Category" to create a new category. Once you have the categories set up, you can add sound files to them. Right-click on a category, select "File," and then choose "Add Sound Files." Browse your computer to select the sound effect files you want to add. Repeat this process for all the categories and sound effects you want to use.

6. Adjusting Sound Settings

To ensure that your sound effects are balanced and not overpowering, it's essential to adjust the sound settings. Open your computer's sound settings and make sure that the output device is set correctly. Additionally, check the input device to ensure that it matches your microphone. If you are using voice modulation software, make sure it is also properly configured. Finally, go to the advanced sound options and decrease the volume of Sound Pad slightly, so the sound effects are not too loud.

7. Testing the Sound Effects

Now that everything is set up, it's time to test your sound effects. Open a communication software like Discord and join a voice chat with your friends or any other participants. As you speak, you should see your microphone icon turn green. This indicates that your microphone is working correctly. Now, press the buttons on your Stream Deck that correspond to the sound effects you added. You should see the microphone icon light up whenever a sound effect is playing, indicating that others can hear it as well.

8. Additional Features of Sound Pad

While we have focused on using Sound Pad as a soundboard, it also offers additional features. You can integrate background music for your streams or YouTube videos by setting up buttons to play full songs. This allows you to create a more immersive and entertaining experience for your audience. Take some time to explore the various options in Sound Pad to make the most out of your Stream Deck.

9. Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter any issues during the setup process or while using your Stream Deck as a soundboard, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can try. First, ensure that both the Stream Deck and Sound Pad software are up to date. Check if any settings in your computer's sound options are causing conflicts. If you're still experiencing problems, visit the official websites of Elgato and Sound Pad for FAQs and support.

10. Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully transformed your Stream Deck into a fully functional soundboard. Now you can play sound effects and have some fun with your friends and fellow gamers. Remember to use the Sound Pad software to organize your sound effects and create categories for easy access. Feel free to experiment with different sound effects to customize your gaming or streaming experience. Enjoy!