How to play PCM: hot topics and practical guides on the Internet
In the past 10 days, digital audio technology, especially PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) playback method, has become a hot topic. This article will introduce the PCM playback method in detail based on the hot topics on the entire network, and attach structured data for reference.
1. What is PCM?

PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is an uncompressed digital audio format that converts analog signals into digital signals through sampling and quantization. It is the basic encoding method for audio files such as CD and WAV, and has high-fidelity characteristics.
2. PCM-related hot topics on the entire network in the past 10 days
| Ranking | Topic keywords | Discussion popularity | Main platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PCM vs DSD sound quality comparison | 85,000+ | Audio forum, Zhihu |
| 2 | Tutorial on playing PCM on mobile phone | 62,000+ | Station B, Douyin |
| 3 | Hi-Res PCM resource acquisition | 47,000+ | Tieba, Xiaohongshu |
| 4 | PCM player recommendation | 35,000+ | E-commerce platform, evaluation website |
3. Complete guide to PCM playback
1. Hardware equipment requirements
| Device type | Recommended configuration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| computer | Support 24bit/192kHz sound card | Requires professional driver installation |
| mobile phone | Android devices equipped with USB DAC | Apple needs third-party apps |
| Professional player | Fiio, Shanling and other brands | Support native DSD decoding |
2. Software playback solution
Recommended playback software for different platforms:
| Platform | Recommended software | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Foobar2000 | Support ASIO output |
| macOS | Audirvana | memory playback technology |
| Android | USB Audio Player Pro | Pass-through DAC function |
| iOS | NePlayer | ALAC lossless support |
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is there noise when playing PCM files?
A: Possible reasons: ① Sampling rate mismatch ② Driver problem ③ File damage. It is recommended to check the audio device settings and update the driver.
Q: How to convert PCM to other formats?
A: You can use professional software such as Adobe Audition and dBpoweramp. Be careful to choose a lossless format (such as FLAC) when converting to avoid quality loss.
4. Observation of the latest trends
According to recent data, PCM playback technology shows the following development trends:
| trend direction | Specific performance | growth rate |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless PCM transmission | Popularity of LDAC encoding | +32% month-on-month |
| Cloud PCM playback | Tidal Hi-Fi subscription growth | +28% month-on-month |
| Vehicle PCM system | Standard equipment for high-end models | +19% month-on-month |
5. Summary
As the basic technology of high-fidelity audio, PCM playback is receiving more attention with the popularity of Hi-Res audio. Users can choose appropriate hardware devices and playback software according to their own needs, while paying attention to the development direction of emerging technologies such as wireless transmission. Keeping device drivers updated and set up correctly is key to getting the best playback results.
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