Buffer Sizes
Buffering occurs in a number of places when you open and play an MP3 stream or file. It is most often only necessary when streaming, but may be used when playing files. The Buffer Sizes determine the amount of data held in a specific location until it is requested by the next step in the process. Correct buffering keeps the process of audio playback running smoothly. Do not change the Buffer Sizes unless you are experiencing audio breakup or skipping during playback while running other applications.
Input Buffer Size [64] Kilobytes is only used when playing MP3 streams. The Input Buffer Size depends on the bitrate of the stream and determines the size of the Input Buffer as the compressed MP3 data awaits conversion to uncompressed WAV data.
Output Buffer Size [512] Kilobytes determines the size of the Output Buffer as the uncompressed WAV data awaits processing by the decoder.
Prebuffer Streams [0] Seconds sets FreeAmp to place a specific amount of audio data in a buffer before beginning playback of the stream. Prebuffering streams should only be necessary when using a slower computer and if audio skips at the beginning of playback.