Private Broadcast

Last night I was having some tech difficulties and sometimes I like to test my mic levels and such before I really start going. Is there a way to do a private stream so I can test this stuff out without anyone else being aware. Like for instance is there a way I can go live without it notifying my followers who have notifications. I imagine it was annoying for some as I went off and on last night when I had difficulties.

Also I am aware in OBS there is a way to do a preview stream, but I don't get to really test my audio levels that way I seem to need a second device to check that on. Any suggestions on how to do an audio test?