VLC Media Player is one of the most popular and widely used media players in the world. It’s known for its ability to play a wide range of media formats and its user-friendly interface. However, many users only scratch the surface of its capabilities. Here are 5 innovative ways to use VLC as a media player:
1. Conversion and Streaming
VLC’s built-in conversion capabilities allow you to convert almost any media format to a different format. This means you can take a 4K video recorded with your smartphone and convert it to a format that can be played on your laptop or TV. You can also use VLC to convert audio files to different formats, such as MP3 to WAV or FLAC to MP3.
But that’s not all. VLC also allows you to stream media files to other devices on your network. Simply open VLC, select "Media" > "Open Network Stream", and enter the IP address of the device you want to stream to. You can stream videos, music, or even live TV channels from websites like Twitch or YouTube.
2. DLNA and Chromecast Streaming
VLC has excellent support for DLNA and Chromecast streaming. If you have a DLNA-enabled device or a Chromecast device, you can use VLC to stream media files to it wirelessly. To do this, simply open VLC, select "Media" > "Open Network Stream", and enter the IP address of your device. From there, you can stream videos, music, and photos to your TV, tablet, or smartphone.
3. Media Processing and Effects
VLC has a range of media processing and effects capabilities that allow you to enhance, manipulate, and transform your media files. For example, you can use the "Effects and Filters" menu to add audio or video effects to your videos, such as slowing down or speeding up the playback, adding watermarks or subtitles, or even detecting and removing noise from your audio files.
You can also use VLC to deinterlace videos, de-noise audio files, or even add 3D effects to your movies. These features are ideal for video editors, cinematographers, and anyone looking to add some creative flair to their media files.
4. Screen Capture and Recording
VLC has a built-in screen capture and recording feature that allows you to capture video or audio from your computer screen. This feature is ideal for recording tutorials, capturing gameplay footage, or even creating educational videos. To use this feature, simply open VLC, go to "Tools" > "Screen Capture", and select the area of your screen you want to capture.
You can also record your screen by going to "Media" > "Open Capture Device" and selecting the video or audio device you want to capture. From there, you can record your screen without having to install any third-party software.
5. Media Center and Customization
VLC’s media center feature allows you to turn your computer into a media hub, accessible from any device on your network. Simply open VLC, go to "Settings" > "All settings", and enable the media center feature. From there, you can access your media files from any device on your network, even if you’re not on the same network.
You can also customize VLC to your heart’s content, with a wide range of skins, themes, and plugins available. You can change the interface, add custom buttons and menus, or even create your own custom plugins using VLC’s API.
In conclusion, VLC is a powerful media player that offers a range of innovative features and capabilities that go far beyond your average media player. By using these 5 features, you can unlock a whole new world of media processing, conversion, streaming, and customization.
