The idea behind this is to say the output is exactly the same as what was put in. Conventional wisdom states that in order for a system to be bit perfect it must act as a pass-through device, not altering the digital data in any fashion through the use of matrixing, DSP, or other means. There are lots of layers here, and I’ll talk about them more in-depth in our upcoming optimization guides.īefore diving into the software comparison, I need to address bit-perfect playback. This doesn’t mean they make no difference, it just explains why some people will hear a tremendous difference while others will not. some people will hear a tremendous difference while others will not.īecause many operating systems can be optimized outside of playback software, the benefits of these audio applications may diminish. Simply put, you want the operating system to focus on audio and not useless services, and you want the audio signal to reach the computers output with as little handshaking as possible. One of the main concepts behind high-end playback software is to aid in the elimination of background processes and improve the ability of non-real-time operating systems to process real-time audio information.

However, the differences in supported file formats, file management systems, user experience vary greatly. It should also be mentioned that with a properly designed and optimized music server or HTPC, the sonic benefits and differences between operating systems and playback software shrink and selection most often can be made based on form and function.

While audible differences can occur in going from an entry-level software like iTunes to one of the audiophile playback engines mentioned below, the transition between high-end software boils down to a preference between real cherry flavor and artificial cherry flavor. Choosing the right audiophile playback software can be a daunting task.

Audio player software for pc