Apply 3D LUT to VLC Media Source in OBS Studio

This article provides a straightforward, step-by-step guide on how to apply a 3D LUT (Look-Up Table) to a VLC Media Source within OBS Studio. By applying a LUT filter, you can instantly color grade, correct, or stylize your video playback to match your stream’s overall aesthetic.

Prerequisites

Before beginning, ensure you have the following: * OBS Studio installed on your system. * The VLC 64-bit desktop application installed (this is required for OBS Studio to recognize and enable the “VLC Video Source” option). * A 3D LUT file (typically in .cube format) saved on your computer.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Add your VLC Video Source

  1. Open OBS Studio.
  2. In the Sources dock at the bottom of the screen, click the + (plus) icon.
  3. Select VLC Video Source from the dropdown menu.
  4. Name the source and click OK.
  5. In the properties window, add your playlist or individual video files, then click OK.

Step 2: Open the Filters Menu

  1. Locate your newly created VLC Video Source in the Sources dock.
  2. Right-click on the VLC Video Source and select Filters from the context menu (or select the source and click the Filters button above the Sources dock).

Step 3: Add the Apply LUT Filter

  1. In the Filters window, look at the bottom-left pane labeled Effect Filters.
  2. Click the + (plus) icon at the bottom of this pane.
  3. Select Apply LUT from the list of available effect filters.
  4. Give the filter a name (e.g., “Color Grade LUT”) and click OK.

Step 4: Load Your 3D LUT File

  1. With the “Apply LUT” filter selected, look at the right side of the Filters window.
  2. Click the Browse button next to the “Path” field.
  3. Navigate to the folder where your .cube LUT file is stored.
  4. Select the LUT file and click Open.

Step 5: Adjust the Intensity

  1. Use the Amount slider below the file path to adjust the opacity of the LUT.
  2. A setting of 1.00 applies the LUT at 100% strength, while lower values blend the color-graded look with the original video source.
  3. Once you are satisfied with the look in the preview window, click Close to save your changes.