VLC can also check online for album art and metadata to enrich playback experience, such as providing track information when playing audio CDs. While it isn't as intuitive as iTunes as a media manager, VLC is much more flexible in terms of file formats. Enriched playback experienceįor music, VLC plays more or less any audio file and features an equalizer and playlist creation. Functions such as changing the video's size, jumping to a specific time point in the video, and taking a quick screengrab are available using the hotkeys. VLC media player also has great hotkey support and, if you learn the shortcuts, it can be controlled without touching your mouse.

It's simple to watch and pause videos, and to control their volume, using your mouse. There is also a timeline that shows the full length of the video with a slider to move through the video. In playback mode, the play, pause, stop, full-screen and volume controls are easily accessible onscreen. During software installation, a user can set VLC as the default media player, meaning that whenever they click on an audio or video file it will automatically open in VLC. Visually, the player is not very exciting, although a selection of audio visualizations - graphic shapes and signs that respond to the audio being played - can be used to add color and interest to the display.įor those who prefer a more visually interesting interface, KMPlayer is fully customizable and allows users to open multiple windows for controls, playlist, or equalizer.Īt a very basic level, VLC media player is an easy program to use for simple viewing of videos and listening to audio. The VLC interface for Mac is lightweight, fast, and simple with a single-window for everything. Simple interface and easy basic functionality

Users can also use VLC to convert files and, in addition to all the formats and physical media it will play, many streaming protocols are supported. Because the software plays almost anything, VLC is a great alternative to iTunes, RealPlayer, and Quicktime.

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