Uncovering the Best XMP Alternatives for Your Audio Playback Needs
XMP, or the Extended Module Player, is a powerful command-line module player known for its ability to handle a vast array of mainstream and obscure module formats like Protracker (MOD), Scream Tracker 3 (S3M), Fast Tracker II (XM), and Impulse Tracker (IT). While XMP excels in its niche, users often seek alternatives for a variety of reasons, including a desire for a graphical user interface, broader format support, or specific features like music library management or extensive customization. This guide explores the top XMP alternatives available today, helping you find the perfect audio player for your needs.
Top XMP Alternatives
Whether you're looking for a feature-rich music management system, a lightweight player, or something with a familiar interface, there's an XMP alternative out there for you. Here are some of the best options:
foobar2000
foobar2000 is an advanced freeware audio player primarily for Windows, also available on Android and iPhone, making it a versatile XMP alternative. It boasts extensive customization, a lightweight footprint, and supports a wide range of audio formats including MP3, MP4, AAC, and more. Key features like a customizable UI, music library, plugins, and gapless playback make it a powerful contender for those seeking comprehensive control over their audio experience.
Audacious
Audacious is an excellent open-source XMP alternative, free, lightweight, and based on GTK+. It runs on Windows, Linux, and various *nix platforms, focusing on audio quality and supporting a wide array of formats. Its extensibility via plugins for features like crossfading, an equalizer, and Last.FM Scrobbler makes it a flexible choice for users who value customization and a clean audio experience.
DeaDBeeF
DeaDBeeF is a free and open-source modular audio player available across GNU/Linux, *BSD, OpenSolaris, macOS, and Windows. It stands out as a strong XMP alternative due to its lightweight nature, fully customizable interface, and extensibility through plugins. Features like audio conversion and support for hotkeys enhance its utility for users seeking a highly adaptable player.
XMPlay
XMPlay is a tiny and portable freeware audio player for Windows and PortableApps.com. As a direct XMP alternative, it natively plays many module formats like XM, IT, and MOD, alongside OGG, MP3, and WMA. Its lightweight design and extensibility via plugins make it an excellent choice for users who prioritize portability and efficient playback of various audio files, including its namesake module formats.
Qmmp
Qmmp is a free and open-source audio player available on Windows, Linux, and BSD, designed with a user interface similar to Winamp or XMMS. This makes it a familiar and accessible XMP alternative, especially for those who appreciate classic player layouts. It includes features like a built-in media converter and Last.FM Scrobbler, enhancing its appeal for general audio playback needs.
Delix
Delix is a plugin specifically designed for XMPlay, allowing it to open and play various exotic audio files originating from the Amiga computer. While not a standalone player, it serves as a valuable extension for XMPlay users looking to expand its module playback capabilities, making XMPlay an even stronger XMP alternative for niche format enthusiasts on Windows.
Chipmachine
Chipmachine is a free and open-source fullscreen demoscene/retro Jukebox/spotify-like music player available on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It focuses on instant incremental search to locate songs in its database, catering to users with large music collections, particularly those interested in chip-tune and demoscene music. As an XMP alternative, it offers a distinct interface and organization method for specific audio genres.
BZR Player
BZR Player is a small, free music player for Windows known for its incredible ability to play over 640 file formats, including retro and old game console music files like C64 (SID) and Atari. This extensive format support makes it an exceptional XMP alternative for users with diverse and obscure audio collections who require a player capable of handling almost anything thrown at it.
Ultimately, the best XMP alternative depends on your individual preferences, whether you prioritize a specific operating system, open-source status, a rich feature set, or a minimalist design. Explore these options to find the audio player that perfectly fits your workflow and listening habits.