showard, et al.:
Using the HTPC as a .wav jukebox is a great idea, but it's just the tip of iceberg in terms of what can be done on the music side of the equation with the HTPC, IMO. It often seems that mostl of the focus in the HTPC forum is on the
video side of the equation and the sound quality issues are forgotten.
One big topic there, however, is the possibility of using the HTPC as a pre/pro with analog outputs directly to the amps. This idea is intriguing because it would give you complete control over the music reproduction in the digital domain with PC software, rather than relying on what the pre/pro manufacturer has decided. The current state-of-the-art is not that great, though -- perhaps the M-Audio Delta Theater card will advance things -- but it still will handle the D/A conversion inside the computer case, which may introduce unwanted noise and interference. In theory, however, the PC could become an excellent pre/pro, especially if it offered multi-channel parametric equalization, unlimited selection of crossover points (and slopes) for each channel, and upgradeable decoding for future surround-sound formats. WinDVD and PowerDVD, afaik, offer Dolby Digital, DTS, and perhaps DPLII in the software.
My research into available software equalization tools has led me into the scary world of MIDI and music composition tools. One promising application is
Graphic Equalizer Studio Version 2.0 . I haven't had time to experiment with it yet, but it looks promising.
Another cool thing that can be done with HTPC is to project visualations on your big screen during music playback. Great for parties and background music.
Finally, the HTPC can be used as a diagnostic tool to discover problems with your in-room frequency reponse. There are several real time analysis tools for the PC that, when combined with a good microphone, can generate a frequency-response graph of your system that graphically shows your room modes and other problems. Ones I've found include
EFT 5 Room Analyzer and
SpectraPlus .
I plan to keep experimenting with these tools as time allows, and I'll keep folks posted. Please do the same!
- Ken
P.S. - showard -- like your website.
