HD Playback on 64 bit Vista

zappeh · 15 Jan 2008 at 20:59

I've just built a new PC with the intention of using it as a media centre. It's an Intel Dual Core E2180 with 2 GB RAM so should have plenty of power to run 720p videos. I'm running on 64bit Vista.

I'm using the CCCP codec pack and Media Player Classic, but I'm having problems with frames being dropped when playing HD movies (be they .wmv, .mkv, the format doesn't seem to matter). This is causing noticeable jerking on playback.

I'm assuming the hardware has enough power to play 720p files, so I'm thinking its either an issue with the codecs or Vista. Does anyone have any recommendations on tweaking the codec settings, or other codecs and players I could use? Or should I try putting XP on it as I've heard that 64 bit vista isn't great for video playback?

Furton · 15 Jan 2008 at 22:19

Try vista codec package & vista codec package 64bit components

bledd · 16 Jan 2008 at 00:17

what graphics card do you have?

zappeh · 16 Jan 2008 at 01:25

The Vista codec pack has improved things a great deal, thanks for the tip.

bledd. said:
what graphics card do you have?

Geforce 2400 pro. I don't intend to do any gaming on this box so have a low end graphics card. Would a better one help? If so, what would you recommend, bearing in mind I'm on a budget?

dbmzk1 · 16 Jan 2008 at 08:26

You should uninstall the codec pack and just use ffdshow with Media Player Classic Homecinema. Much simpler and I've found it a lot better too! Only issues I've had is that some WMV files (non-HD ones) crash MPC, but work in WMP. No idea why, but it doesn't bother me really.

http://ffdshow-tryout.sourceforge.net/
http://tibrium.neuf.fr/

fumbles · 16 Jan 2008 at 12:10

Geforce OR ATi 2400 pro?

If its GeForce, then yes, if ATi/AMD then no. (for upgrading that is).

NathanE · 16 Jan 2008 at 19:23

Try the VLC player. It seems to be pretty good for HD playback.

Just make damn sure your video output processor is set to Direct 3D.

I have a Geforce 7600GS (passively cooled, so nothing special!) and it plays 720p just fine. I don't have any 1080p content so not sure on that one.