Audacious

Audacious plays your local music with playlists, an equalizer and various interface choices.

Developer Audacious-project

Version 4.6.1 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

Looking for an alternative to Audacious?Compare Qmmp, Quod Libet, Amarok, Strawberry Music Player.Compare alternatives

You can drag numbers and folders to the player and compose playlists. Audacious focuses on playing music without an extensive streaming environment around it. You can use a modern interface or choose a classic Winamp-like view. Included plug-ins add features such as effects and information when playing. Which interface and components are available depends on your platform and package. For a large archive with complicated library management, another player can offer more structure; for instant listening the set-up remains clear.

Which software suits you?

Compare Audacious with alternatives

If you have your own music collection, compare the management of tags, playlists and large folders. One player mainly offers a clear playback interface, the other many extensions or library functions. Also see how you can take settings and playlists to another computer.

Differences between Audacious and Qmmp, Quod Libet, Amarok, Strawberry Music Player
SoftwareWhat can it do?Platform and licence
AudaciousYou are viewing this app You use a light music player with playlists and plug-ins. You can opt for a simple interface or appearance that connects to classic audio players. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
QmmpView this alternative You get an audio player with a compact, skinnable interface and plug-ins. The emphasis is on playing locally, not an extensive media server. Windows, LinuxOpen source
Quod LibetView this alternative You search and organize your music collection on tags and custom searches. The flexible library is relevant in many or irregularly tagged files. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
AmarokView this alternative You combine a music library with playlists and context information within the KDE environment. Check the integration with the music sources you use. LinuxOpen source
Strawberry Music PlayerView this alternative You organize and play a local music collection in a library-oriented player. That fits if you want to centrally manage music files. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You use Audacious if you want to play your own audio files and adjust the controls. It's interesting if you like a classic player setup.

Getting started

Download the appropriate version. The current Windows build requires 64-bit Windows 10 or newer; older Windows versions need a different, older release.

Privacy

Local music can be played without an online account. Streams and plug-ins that retrieve song lyrics do connect to external services; enable only what you need.

Good to know

Audacious focuses on playing music and has less library management than some larger music programs. Available plugins vary per package.

Please note

Check the audio output and start with a neutral equalizer. Multiple reinforcing effects in succession can cause overcontrol and make comparison more difficult.

Advantages

  • You can play files and folders directly.
  • You can choose from different interface forms.
  • You get expandable playback functions via plug-ins.

Things to consider

  • The package content differs from one platform to another.
  • Library management is less extensive than some alternatives.
  • Online plugins have their own data streams.

Download Audacious

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Version history

4.6.1

This maintenance release contains error corrections and minor improvements within the 4.6 series.

The current Windows version requires 64-bit Windows 10 or newer. After updating check your audio output and used plugins.

Report a new version

Is there a newer version of Audacious? Send the version number and a link to the official announcement. Our editors will check it. No login is required.

Our verdict

Audacious fits with easy listening to your own collection with some space for personal service. The best start is a sober configuration with only the required plug-ins.

Choose Audacious when you want to listen to your own albums or playlists and not look for an extensive online catalogue. Check the layout and track data with music you know. The interface choice is a preference, while correct tags remain decisive for recognizable playback. Additional effects are optional and do not automatically improve the source. For extensive library maintenance, you need to assess whether the necessary management functions connect to your collection.

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