Selecting a Video Player

Other Video Players

In addition to DVD and Blu-ray players, a vast array of flash and hard-drive based players are available in today's marketplace. While PianoVideos are generally compatible with these devices, there are a few things you should consider.

Importing: Since PianoDisc distributes PianoVideos on optical discs, you'll need a way to import these into your video player. If your player does not have an optical drive for that purpose, you may need to use a computer to encode the video. Encoding video using a computer usually requires a moderate degree of technical knowledge. If you aren't comfortable with that, you may prefer to choose a standard DVD or Blu-ray player.

Audio Quality: When encoding a video, you'll likely have choices to make regarding audio and video quality. Since PianoDisc encodes data onto one of the audio channels, it is important to ensure the audio quality (even if compressed) remains relatively high. Generally speaking, audio compression at 192 kbps or better yields acceptable results. However, if you experience incorrect notes or significant dropouts, you many want to encode audio at an even higher bit rate.

Adjustable Line-Out/Volume: While not strictly required, a player with an adjustable line output level, or even an independent volume control, will allow you to set the correct volume level to minimize playback errors. With an iQ, an independent volume control also adds the ability to raise or lower the piano volume directly from your player. If you can't find a model with this feature, don't worry, we'll cover ways to still make your player work.

Effects Processing: Some players feature audio effects to simulate specific environments. Presets for "Concert Hall", "Arena", and "Cinema" are all common. While these setting can add ambiance and excitement to standard videos, it is important to ensure all special effects are turned off when playing PianoVideos. Since our videos use an audio channel for piano data, the effects can cause playback errors or other undesirable effects. Make sure your player has all effects settings turned off.

Audio Output: Today, players come with a wide variety of audio output options. From optical TOSLINK to HDMI. To work with a PianoDisc system, you'll need to ensure the player has analog audio outputs. These are usually red and white colored RCA jacks. Additionally, you'll need to make sure that the analog audio outputs remain active regardless of the video connection. That can be a little more difficult to quantify. Some players disable analog audio output when connected to a display via HDMI. If you aren't sure what your player supports—don't worry, as this won't be an issue in most cases. Once everything is connected, check your player's audio settings if the analog outputs are not enabled.