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+---- Thread: Audio Output Device Types (/showthread.php?tid=128870)
Audio Output Device Types - THRobinson - 2012-04-14 16:13
I have a Win7 system with an ATI HD5670 video card running a single HDMI cable to my TV for audio/video.
When picking Audio Output devices, I get many options
WASAPI: AMD HDMI Output (AMD High Definition Audio Device)
WASAPI: Digital Audio (HDMI)(High Definition Audio Device)
WASAPI: Speakers (Behringer USB WDM Audio 2.8.40)
WASAPI: Digital Audio (S/PDIF)(High Definition Audio Device)
WASAPI: Speakers (High Definition Audio Device)
DirectSound: AMD HDMI Output (AMD High Definition Audio Device)
DirectSound: Digital Audio (HDMI)(High Definition Audio Device)
DirectSound: Speakers (Behringer USB WDM Audio 2.8.40)
DirectSound: Digital Audio (S/PDIF)(High Definition Audio Device)
DirectSound: Speakers (High Definition Audio Device)
DirectSound: Primary Sound Driver
The Behringer ones are for a small USB attachment that connects my guitar to GuitarRig when the media server isn't running.
Basically wondering, for my audio through HDMI...
1) WASAPI vs DirectSound... What's the dif?
2) AMD HDMI Output vs Digital Audio (HDMI)... what's the dif?
Lot's of choices, but to get sound out of the TV I know it's the AMD/HDMI options, just not sure if a difference between the 4 that show up. I'm not running 5.1 sound or anything (yet) currently just the built in speakers on the Sony Bravia, so, maybe there is no difference until I attach a receiver? Surround Sound? For now though, just 2.0 stereo.
Anyone have a simple answer? Thanks.
RE: Audio Output Device Types - DDDamian - 2012-04-14 16:22
Simple and short answer is: running through TV speakers no difference at all.
When you get a receiver you want to rock the WASAPI AMD HDMI for sure (in Exclusive Mode). Way better sound plus all the passthrough formats like DTS-MA, AC3, etc.
I'll try remember to come back with more technical details later if you like.
RE: Audio Output Device Types - THRobinson - 2012-04-14 16:38
Well, may be a while before I go for surround sound given space limits right now... so figured probably no different since not running anything fancy.
Just wanted to double check in case there was a difference for when playing 5.1 through 2.0... some movies are VERY loud for music and effects and can't hear a thing for when there is talking and wasn't certain if one option was better than another for those situations (when only a 5.1 track is available) or just simply out of luck for now. Was debating a sound bar or 3.1 system simply because of all the 5.1 movies I have where music/effects are 3x louder than speech.
RE: Audio Output Device Types - DDDamian - 2012-04-14 18:21
Yeah, without a receiver that will always be an issue.