What is a decoder, which ones do I need, and where do I get them?
A combination of audio decoders and video decoders are required for you to watch live tv and recordings. In simplistic terms, decoders take compressed audio/video frames, and decompresses them into audio samples for sending to the speakers, or video frames for displaying on the screen.
NextPVR is a non-commerical application, and ships without any decoders installed, since these would cost $$$ for me to legally license and distribute. Instead, NextPVR will make use of decoders you already have on your system. Some of these are supplied with Windows, some come from other applications you have installed, some are downloaded from Internet sources.
Below is info on what decoders you need and recommendations, the TL;DR answer: install the LAV decoders from HERE, then go to the Settings->Decoders screen, and set everything to the LAV decoders
It depends on the country you're in, the television system you're using, and sometimes the device you use. If you don't have a decoder you require, NextPVR will tell you what type of decoder it's missing. Here are some example decoder requirements for common user groups:
Software build / commit / log entry
Filename or media metadata
User-entered search/typo
Rather than chasing suspicious strings, identify the actual software you need:
| If you want… | Legitimate source | |--------------|-------------------| | A video editor with high quality | DaVinci Resolve (free tier), Shotcut, Kdenlive, or Adobe Premiere (trial/subscription) | | Audio plugin or DAW | Reaper (60-day full trial), Audacity (free), or Cakewalk (free) | | Game version 1.6 or “new” | Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG — official patches | | Windows/macOS software update | Microsoft Store, Apple App Store, or official developer’s site | | “Extra quality” codecs | K-Lite Codec Pack (official site, free and safe) | c2joyncom nwe 16 extra quality
If you saw “c2joyncom” on a website offering free downloads of paid software, close the tab immediately.
A. Typo or Obfuscated Warez Release The most probable explanation is that this is a mislabeled or deliberately obfuscated filename for a pirated version of an existing game or software. Common patterns include: Local search
B. Malicious Payload Distribution Cybercriminals often generate random keyword strings to bypass search engine filters and content blockers. When users search for obscure "extra quality" releases, they are directed to fake download pages. Files downloaded under this name have been reported to contain:
NextPVR is a 32bit application so will only see 32bit decoders on the machine. It can't see 64bit decoders, so these will not be listed.
NextPVR's decoder settings only apply to Live TV, and the playback of .ts recordings. For playback of other file types, like .mkv/.mp4/.avi, it's left to Windows to decide what decoders etc are used during playback. Installing LAV from HERE will often resolve issues with playback of these other file types.