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Topic: Windows "low latency mode" (Read 1304 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: Windows "low latency mode"

Reply #1 –
Thanks for the link, that article was fascinating and well-written.  Do you use the inbox Microsoft HDAudio drivers?  I've noticed that choice but never understood it until I read the article.  I am still using RealTek HD Audio drivers.

Re: Windows "low latency mode"

Reply #2 –
No. Low latency mode is useless for an audio player. You need low latency only in scenarios that happen in realtime. It's a must for monitoring live recording if you need to react in realtime too. For games the latency can't be too high or sound effects would go out of sync with player actions. But in music player the playback doesn't need to start 1 ms after you hit play. No one will be annoyed if it takes 10 ms for the first samples to be heard.
Also as the FAQ on the page says, low latency mode increases power consumption and puts higher stress on the system.
Stable, reliable and glitchess playback are the targets with foobar2000.

Re: Windows "low latency mode"

Reply #3 –
Actually, this paragraph from the MSFT article caught my attention ...

Quote
When an application uses buffer sizes below a certain threshold to render and capture audio, Windows enters a special mode, where it manages its resources in a way that avoids interference between the audio streaming and other subsystems. This will reduce the interruptions in the execution of the audio subsystem and minimize the probability of audio glitches. When the application stops streaming, Windows returns to its normal execution mode.

That's why I asked if foobar2000 uses Windows "low latency mode" ...

I wonder what is this "special mode" all about... and how it differs from the usual WASAPI Exclusive mode of operation...

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Re: Windows "low latency mode"

Reply #4 –
This mode is not well known and not many apps use it. Here's one: https://asb2m10.github.io/dexed/
Also, you can use it with the RTL Utility: https://oblique-audio.com/rtl-utility.php

Unlike WASAPI Exclusive the 'low latency mode' is not exclusive; it lets you play audio from other apps at the same time.
The main downside I noticed is you don't get low latency with all devices (sound cards).

Re: Windows "low latency mode"

Reply #5 –
Exclusive has always allowed lower latency than non-exclusive mode. Nothing in the "low latency" mode prevents you from using exclusive mode WASAPI.