How to play MP3 files in C?

Question

I\'m looking for the easiest way to play a MP3 file in C. I am looking for either a library, in which I could just call the function on the filename, or an executable that w

Answer 1

If you are on Windows or OSX, I recommend BASS (http://www.un4seen.com/bass.html)

You can download the library and look at code sample to get started. The "contest" example in C directory is a good start point.

Answer 2

alternatively something someone's already written that will just run and quit.

You can use mpg123 (or the fixed point port of it, mpg321)

mpg123 <mp3file>

will play an mp3 file and quit.

Answer 3

The BASS DLL is really easy to use and will probably do what you need. It is only free for non-commercial use though.

If you need more control, you will need a codec (I prefer libMad) and some sound output API like DirectSound on Windows or ALSA or Linux (or whatever Linux guys use for sound this week)

Answer 4

On Win32, you don't need any library. Use standard Win32 api (mp3 is native)

See on Adv. Win32 api newsgroup : news://comp.os.ms-windows.programmer.win32 where it 's a FAQ.