Real Alternative wiki

From Software Informer

Real Alternative is a codec pack created for playing RealMedia files on Microsoft Windows operating systems without installing RealPlayer. The pack can be used with any DirectShow-enabled media player, such as Media Player Classic, which is included as part of the package. The pack was designed by KL Software using Real Media Splitter, an open source video filter, and Real Media Codecs. It is bundled with many free codec packs. Users who prefer Real Alternative often cite dissatisfaction with the official RealPlayer software.^[1]

[edit] Legality

According to Karl Lillevold of RealNetworks, KL Software simply re-packages RealNetworks' DLLs and distributes them without permission, which means that he believes that the codec pack is illegal.^[2] No legal action by RealNetworks has been taken against KL Software.

[edit] Limitations

Older versions of Real Alternative were unable to provide some of the original RealPlayer's functions. Some files, like .smi and .smil files, only played the first part of a clip and the Real Time Streaming Protocol (rtsp://) didn't play in DirectShow media players, but did work in Media Player Classic. These shortcomings were fixed in later versions.

[edit] See also

• RealPlayer
• Helix
• QuickTime Alternative
• Winamp Alternative
• Media Player Classic
• VLC media player
• Combined Community Codec Pack

[edit] Notes

1. ↑ Adam Stone. "Real Alternative: Better Than the Real Thing?". WinPlanet Reviews. Jupitermedia Corporation. http://winplanet.com/article/2684-.htm. Retrieved on 2007-09-10. 
2. ↑ Karl Lillevold, RealNetworks (2005-12-01). "RealPlayer 10.5, installation, performance, etc.". Doom9. http://forum.doom9.org/showthread.php?threadid=68399. Retrieved on 2006-08-22.