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A simple to use media player that contains basic media codecs built right in

A simple to use media player that contains basic media codecs built right in

Vote: (156 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Mpcstar

Version: 4.2

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(156 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Mpcstar

4.2

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Lightweight and simple design
  • Supports popular file types
  • Blocks advertisements

Cons

  • Codecs are not updated automatically
  • Few options allow for users to refine playback

MPCStar is a self-contained and simplified media player for audio and video files. The application was developed because other media players have started to become exceedingly complex. Users may get confused by the networking and other options in larger, more complicated players. In response to this trend, MPCStar seeks to provide a direct and simple way to watch videos or listen to music without having to learn technical details or deal with a cluttered display. MPCStar is distributed as freeware, and the application is updated regularly. It sometimes updates to include the newest codecs and file formats for popular videos.

Something that sets MPCStar apart from other media players is what is excluded from the application. MPCStar does not attempt to be a comprehensive media player. Instead, the developers decided to include only the most common and popular codecs with the software. The codecs are what allow different video formats to be played. MPCStar allows users to choose around a dozen codecs to be installed with the program. Users can choose to install as few or as many as desired. All of the codecs are tied to the program and do not require extensive system updates. The downside of this is that the player cannot access codecs already installed on the computer.

Everything about MPCStar was created to be as user-friendly as possible. The main interface is just a viewing window with some basic controls on the bottom. Users load a file by clicking on the main viewer. There is play button and buttons that allow the user to rewind or fast-forward the clip or movie. A playlist is available as a sidebar that allows fast access to previously-watched videos or all the videos in a given directory. Other options are hidden in various menus accessed via icons around the interface.

The playback quality is very good with MPCStar. The lightweight design allows the program to play even the longest clips without skipping or having issues with buffering. The player can handle up to two simultaneous tracks of subtitles. It even has an option to allow users to resynchronize subtitles that are not matching the video. The program can block pop-ups and ads. The options menu gives users the ability to customize an entire series of hotkeys that will make watching, moving through and adjusting movies simple without having to open menus. MPCStar can also be used as an audio player. It has some basic features that allow audio files to be refined for better sound quality. However, it really shines as a video player.

A few options are available for managing and editing video files. There is a video converter included. The converter only allows videos to be converted into the MP4 format that is used commonly on mobile devices. A drawback of the simplicity of the application is that codecs are not updated as needed. This can cause movies to stop playing over time. MPCStar is an excellent basic media player for people who want a simple experience.

Pros

  • Lightweight and simple design
  • Supports popular file types
  • Blocks advertisements

Cons

  • Codecs are not updated automatically
  • Few options allow for users to refine playback