Key Types of AV Equipment for Gaming

Video games have come a long way from unwieldy arcade games sitting in the corner of the local pizza shop. Game streaming can be a full-time (and lucrative) job. But you need the right gaming technology to keep your sessions up with the competition. Below, we cover the key types of AV equipment for gaming.

Key Types of AV Equipment for Gaming

We will skip over the consoles and controllers. You likely already know what basics you need, but what do you need to take your sessions to the next level? This guide will specifically focus on the types of AV equipment that are best for streaming video games.

Headphones

Quality headphones can transform a game. Wired headphones technically provide the best sound. However, wireless Bluetooth headphones provide more freedom of movement and experience. 

Capture Device

Video gaming can lead to candid cinematic moments. But without a capture device, they will come and go, just like they never happened. Most consoles have some built-in capture software, but it is rarely high quality. A capture device can store your gaming content in a designated storage device in real time. It will let you enshrine some of your most epic gaming moments in stone (or silicone).

Microphone

We wish you luck at this stage. Finding the best gaming microphone can often feel like trying to find the right car. There are many variables to consider that most people are not even aware of. The good news is there is something for every budget level. We recommend you look for something in your budget that fits the style you want, stand microphone versus wearable, and your personal aesthetic.

Lighting

Lighting can make or break your streaming videos. One of the biggest mistakes people make when recording a stream for the first time is discounting how important lighting is.

Every situation will require slightly different lighting, and game streaming will require a moderate approach. The streamer should be clear and visible but not glowing or highlighted. Let the gameplay speak for itself.

Camera

With a camera, you get what you pay for. You might be able to find cheap cameras that claim to be 1080p or even 4K, but if they have a price tag under $100, it likely is too good to be true.

That said, starting with something cheaper is not always a bad idea. As mentioned above, the gameplay is the core experience, and most streamers have only a small partition of the stream screen dedicated to video of them. Lower-quality cameras will not be as significant of an issue as a low-quality microphone or capture service.

Cables, Adapters, Extenders

Gaming can require a variety of cables, plugs, and prongs. Not every device will have a slot for what is needed. When setting up your gaming station, check to see if everything can be plugged into where it needs to be. 

Adapters

While you can always get adapters, it is better to plug devices in directly because each adapter offers a new place for something to get unplugged or go wrong. For example, if your computer only has USB-C slots, avoid purchasing anything that uses a USB-3 cord so you can bypass the need for an adapter. Adapters are a helpful tool, but they are best reserved for when you have no other option.

Extenders

In general, when you have a lot of things to plug in, using a surge protector power strip is usually a good idea. Not only can it help keep all your cables organized, but it also improves electrical safety. Blowing a fuse at the wrong moment is never good.

Cables

If you are working with consoles, the cables included with the console tend to prove sufficient. The latest-gen consoles come with quality HDMI cables and power supply cords. Still, you can upgrade your cables if you want some extra length or durability.

In any case, make sure you organize your cables well. Tripping over them or unplugging something in the middle of a boss fight can quickly ruin the mood.

Top Source for AV Equipment for Gaming

Kanex Pro is a leading audio-visual equipment retailer for customers who want the best. Expect premium materials, cutting-edge tech, and top-tier customer support.