What is the best codec solution for Windows 64?

[sibeer]

Just wondering what is generally recommended as the best media codec package/packages/applications for Vista 64. Any configuration advice would also be appreciated.

I want to play all the usual internet downloads like mkv's, avi's, vob's, etc, all streaming formats (hoping real alternative and quicktime alternative are compatible), DVD's and if possible have compatibility for HD-DVD/Bluray for when I eventually get one for the PC rather than using my PS3.

I also want to forward the 5.1 stream to my amp untouched from the onboard card of my Abit IP35.

If possible I would like to keep as much of this functionality in Media Center as possible. I like the interface and have the remote programed into my Harmony so find loading files for Mediaplayer Classic a pain.

Don't want much then

 

[Chris1712]

KMPlayer + CoreAVC Pro + FFDshow. All wrapped in mediaportal if you want something in one place.

 

[Bony Maloney]

There can be only one: http://shark007.net/ Also install the "Vista X64 components" for great movie thumbnails.

 

[1337z0r]

Vista codec pack all day everyday + Media Player Classic Home Cinema.

 

[bledd]

Bony Maloney and 1337z0r are correct.

 

[peterattheboro]

Vista codec pack all day everyday + Media Player Classic Home Cinema.

 

[sibeer]

Thanks for the quick response.

 

[sibeer]

Vista codec pack all day everyday + Media Player Classic Home Cinema.

Does Media Player Classic Home Cinema integrate itself with Windows / Vista Media Center? If so it must be the stuff of dreams

 

[JonB]

VLC?

 

[sibeer]

Oh and does the codec pack include something similar to AC3 Filter if necessary?

 

[Snookray]

Vista codec pack has AC3 filter in with it.

 

[csmager]

Vista codec pack has AC3 filter in with it.

The x64 components part doesn't though, so you won't be able to hear AC3 through media center. And there is no x64 version of AC3filter either.

Apparently CCCP works, but I've yet to investigate if that's true and if so, how!

 

[sibeer]

Well that is somewhat a blow. Surely I am not the only Vista 64 user who wants to sent Digital 5.1 to my amp for processing???

 

[Chris1712]

I use AC3 filter just fine with vista ultimate x64, dolby/dts works a treat.

 

[Xtrema]

I use AC3 filter just fine with vista ultimate x64, dolby/dts works a treat.

Works fine for me too.

 

[csmager]

Well that is somewhat a blow. Surely I am not the only Vista 64 user who wants to sent Digital 5.1 to my amp for processing???

It will pass it through fine. AC3Filter decodes the 5.1 to 2.0 - so if you didn't have an amp to decode it (as ac3filter won't touch it in Media Center x64), then you'd hear nothing at all.

e.g. I have two HTPCs - one with a decent 5.1 setup, and the other with 2.0. On the 5.1 one (running 32-bit), I had to uninstall AC3filter to get DD/DTS out of the amp. On the 2.0 one (running 64-bit), I hear nothing on files with DD.

 

[allday247]

i'm using CCCP here on Vista64. works fine.

 

[Snakedoctor]

The x64 components part doesn't though, so you won't be able to hear AC3 through media center. And there is no x64 version of AC3filter either.

Apparently CCCP works, but I've yet to investigate if that's true and if so, how!

Yes it does work. You have to set the audio filters in the x64 components to be s/pdif and 5.1. Mine works fine through a digital amp.

 

[csmager]

Yes it does work. You have to set the audio filters in the x64 components to be s/pdif and 5.1. Mine works fine through a digital amp.

As I've said, I know this as I've done it. Ac3filter doesn't work though, so you won't get it decoded to 2.0 if you don't have an amp/decoder.