64-bit

Q:

When do I need 64-bit codecs and DirectShow filters?

A:

Important to remember is that 64-bit applications can only use 64-bit codecs/filters, and 32-bit applications can only use 32-bit codecs/filters. The 64-bit versions of Windows can run both 32-bit and 64-bit applications. Most software is still 32-bit, so you will need a 32-bit codec pack for them. Only a few applications are 64-bit and thus need a 64-bit codec pack. An example of a 64-bit application is Windows Media Center. Windows Explorer is also a 64-bit application. Both a 32-bit and a 64-bit version of Windows Media Player is included with x64 versions of Windows. The 32-bit version is used by default for compatibility reasons. So if you plan to use WMP you need the 32-bit codec pack! It is recommended to install both the 32-bit codec pack and the 64-bit codec pack. Then you can play everything in any application. The order in which you install the packs does not matter.

Q:

Why isn't a 64-bit version of MPC-HC included in the pack?

A:

For several reasons: Users are expected to install both the 32-bit and the 64-bit versions of the pack. To save space, applications like MPC-HC and MediaInfo are only included in the 32-bit pack. It is recommended to use the 32-bit version of MPC-HC. It has better compatibility because some codecs and filters are only available for 32-bit. For example madVR. The 32-bit version also has better stability. Some problems and bugs only exist with the 64-bit version. There is no significant performance difference. It is possible that a future version of the pack will include a 64-bit build of MPC-HC. For now, it is recommended to use the 32-bit version of MPC-HC. Back to FAQ index