Winamp beats iTunes in desktop performance
My new machine came loaded with iTunes and I resigned myself to use it, since I normally avoid multiple apps for the same task. I’m so much used to using Winamp’s shortcuts that it was a pain to use iTunes in the similar way to switch and change my track while busy doing some work. So, I thought what the heck let me install Winamp. And so, I did.
The same track on Winamp (in its default settings) sounded a lot better. Now, let me tell you upfront that this is a non-tech compare from an end-user. I’m sure the geeks will take this one apart. My settings were simple. Same percentage of volume on both iTunes and Winamp and no preset setting on Winamp equalizer and no special plugin enabled other than the default install. And I didn’t touch my Altec Lansing speaker-woofer set.
After that brief test, I notched it up one level. Put Winamp’s equalizer on (which until then was at 0db on all levels) and selected a preset. That just ripped iTunes’ quality apart. Now, I’m wondering if it has been the bitrate that’s actually doing the job for iTunes without its inherent capacity to play better. Just my take. Time to say bye bye to iTunes from my desktop.
Go ahead try it and let me know if I’m the only one hallucinating.
There is very little difference in audio quality between most MP3 Players these days, why not take a Blind ABX test to be sure of your finding? Adding a DSP (Equaliser) while taking such a test is usually not recommended.
I use itunes because I love the way it organises the library and has a very good AAC encoder. To my ageing ears quality doesn’t register that much these days.
Apr 18, 05 at 16:35Suman: I have nothing against iTunes and I’m aware of the neat library organizer and does a good job at it, just not enough as a player. Vaguely reminds me of this story. We can get converters and organizers of the music as third party apps. But as a better player, I’m not convinced.
Apr 18, 05 at 20:47