Hi,

I have been trying different software for Audio CD playback using SPDIF output, and I found every software has different sound quality. I am confused which software actually play the CD audio without alteration (EQ, echo effect etc).

Have tried powerdvd, foobar2000, kmplayer, XMBC. All have different sound experience, even volume.
There is no EQ setting found in powerdvd, foobar and XMBC, so the sound output should be 'unaltered'?

1) foobar2000 sounds plain.
2) powerdvd is richful and the vocal stands out, volume needed is half of all other players, but i suspect there is echo or EQ adjustment on it.
3) XMBC is the blend of foobar and powerdvd, also richful but not to the extend of powerdvd
4) kmplayer is between foobar and XMBC.

My question is, which software (any software that exists) actually gives pure audio ouput?
What i observed is not only Audio CD, even other media formats are affected.

CD Drive: Pioneer BDR-203
Soundcard : Auzentech HTHD
SPDIF: Optical
AMP: Beyer HBC1, bypass mode
Headphone: Beyer T5p