[Mp4-tech] MPEG-4 Codec Choice?

[Charles]

>> Microsoft doesn't support MPEG-4.  You can just use QuickTime, or
>> install an MPEG-4 splitter and codecs for DirectShow.
>
> The below is somewhat of an oversimplification.  Microsoft actually
> does provide decoding capablity for MPEG-4 video coded using the
> MPEG-4 Visual Simple Profile, and has for a very long time.  

Yeah, I was torn between saying "Microsoft doesn't support MPEG-4" and
"Microsoft has poor, pointless support for old MPEG-4 Video bitstreams,
considering that Windows Media Player can't play MPEG-4 files, which even if
it could, doesn't support AAC".
Thanks for clearing that up.   :O)
> The Windows Media Player also has the ability to operate using
> installed third-party software decoders.

Yep, that's what I meant by "or install an MPEG-4 splitter and codecs for
DirectShow".  Because they're DirectShow components, they'll work not only
in Windows Media Player but potentially anything that supports DirectShow
(e.g. the Media Center Edition UI, etc.).
Basically, download the full version of K-Lite Codec Pack and install
CoreAVC, CoreAAC, and the Haali Media Splitter.  You'll then be able to play
MPEG-4 files in Windows Media Player.
Since Apple's AVC decoder is so inefficient in comparison to CoreAVC, this
configuration will allow you to smoothly play Apple's 1080p trailers on many
boxes that choke and stutter when using QuickTime.
Or, just use VLC.
-- Charles