JRiver Media Center
JRiver, Inc. • Media Player
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Managing a large, diverse digital collection is a complex task. JRiver Media Center is a comprehensive software solution designed to organize, play, and network virtually all media types, including music, video, images, and television.
This application is much more than a simple media player; it functions as a powerful digital jukebox and a complete home theater PC (HTPC) front-end. Its core strength lies in its ability to handle high-resolution audio formats, such as FLAC and DSD, which appeals directly to audiophile users seeking bit-perfect playback.
With support for multi-zone audio and video, alongside robust DLNA/UPnP streaming capabilities, the software allows users to enjoy their content across a home network on various devices.
In This Post
Getting Started with JRiver Media Center
Configuring Bit-Perfect DSD Playback (Windows)
- Navigate to Tools > Options.
- In the left-hand tree, select Audio.
- Under Audio Device, choose your ASIO or WASAPI Exclusive output device.
- Click the Device Settings button.
- Locate the Bitstreaming section and select the DSD or DSD over PCM (DoP) option, depending on your Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) support.
- Ensure that the DSP and Output Format settings are configured to No Change for all bit depths and sample rates to maintain bit-perfect output.
Why: This configuration is essential for audiophiles to bypass the operating system’s audio mixer and the software’s internal DSP, sending the native DSD stream directly to a compatible DAC. This process ensures the highest possible audio fidelity without any unwanted resampling or processing.
Creating a Custom Smartlist for Unplayed Media
- Right-click on the Playlists header in the left-hand tree and select New Smartlist.
- Name the list (e.g., Unplayed High-Res Audio).
- In the Rules section, click Add New Rule.
- Set the first rule to: [Media Type]=[Audio].
- Add a second rule: [Played]= (where 0 indicates unplayed).
- Add a third rule: [Sample Rate]=> to filter for high-resolution files only.
Why: Smartlists automate library management. This specific recipe creates a dynamic playlist that automatically aggregates all high-resolution audio files you have not yet listened to, making it easy to track and prioritize new additions to your collection.
Download JRiver Media Center
Size – 42 MB
Windows
Download JRiver Media Center for Windows – x64
Download JRiver Media Center for Windows – x86
Mac
Download JRiver Media Center for Mac
Linux
Download JRiver Media Center for Linux – x64
Download JRiver Media Center for Linux – x86
Download JRiver Media Center for Linux – ARM
Download JRiver Media Center for Linux – ARM64
Android
Changelog Highlights in New Version
- NEW: Opus encoder for audio file conversions.
- Fixed: A crash in DLNA caused by a missing lock on startup of the DLNA Web Engine.
- Changed: When the window is restored from a MCC_MINIMIZE_WINDOW it is brought to the foreground.
For complete changelog, visit the official release notes.
Technical Details
| Software Name | JRiver Media Center |
|---|---|
| Version | 35.0.38 |
| License | Trial |
| File Size | 42 MB |
| OS Support | Windows 10+, macOS 10.13+, Linux |
| Language | Multi-language (15+ languages) |
| Developer | JRiver, Inc. |
| Homepage | https://www.jriver.com/ |
| Changelogurl | https://wiki.jriver.com/index.php/Main_Page |
| Last Updated | January 22, 2026 |
What Sets It Apart
- High-Resolution Audio Playback: The software supports advanced audiophile formats like DSD and FLAC, offering bit-perfect output through technologies like ASIO and WASAPI. This ensures the highest fidelity sound reproduction for critical listening.
- Theater View Interface: A unique 10-foot user interface is optimized for large-screen displays and remote control use in a home theater PC (HTPC) environment. This full-screen mode simplifies browsing media from across the room.
- Multi-Zone and DLNA Streaming: Users can play different media in different rooms simultaneously using the multi-zone feature, or stream content to compatible devices via the built-in DLNA/UPnP Media Server functionality.
- Robust Media Organization: The application excels at managing massive libraries with sophisticated tagging, customizable views, and powerful Smartlists. It automatically monitors folders and imports newly added files into the database.
- TV Recording and Management: With a compatible tuner card, the software can record broadcast and cable television, offering features like instant-replay, pause, resume, and TV EPG (Electronic Program Guide) download scheduling.
- Advanced DSP and Room Correction: Built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) tools, including a Parametric Equalizer and room correction features, allow for precise audio customization. This helps optimize sound output for specific listening environments.
Getting Started
Installation Steps
- Step 1: Click the download button above to get the installer for your operating system (Windows 64-bit is recommended).
- Step 2: Locate the downloaded file (e.g., MediaCenter350038.exe) and double-click to run the installer.
- Step 3: Follow the on-screen installation wizard, accepting the license agreement to complete the setup.
- Step 4: Upon first launch, the application will ask to begin importing your media files; you can stop this process and configure your media directories manually later.
Compatibility: The 64-bit version requires Windows 10 or newer. A separate 32-bit installer is available for older or 32-bit Windows systems.
Fix Common Problems
- Issue: Installation fails due to permissions → Solution: Right-click the installer file and select Run as administrator to ensure proper system access.
- Issue: Audio playback is distorted or noisy → Solution: Check your audio device settings in the program to ensure the correct output mode (e.g., ASIO, WASAPI) is selected and configured for your DAC’s capabilities.
FAQ
What is the license for JRiver Media Center?
JRiver Media Center is offered as a trial version (shareware) that provides a full feature set for 30 days. After the trial period, a license must be purchased to continue using the software.
Does JRiver Media Center support high-resolution audio formats?
Yes, it supports high-fidelity audio formats, including FLAC, DSD (Direct Stream Digital), and DSD over PCM (DoP), making it a popular choice among audiophiles.
Can I use JRiver Media Center on multiple operating systems?
Yes, the software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. A Master License is available that allows installation on all three operating systems.
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