There’s a vast array of free and open-source music software available on the Linux platform, offering both maturity and sophistication. Linux boasts numerous music tools that provide enhanced functionality and seamless integration with various internet music services. With most desktop environments equipped with multiple audio players, alongside cross-platform applications and integrated media players, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice when it comes to music players.
Every music library is unique, and selecting the right open-source music player can truly elevate your listening experience, especially if you have a large collection.
namp is a minimalistic terminal-based music player for Linux and macOS, implemented in C++ / Qt.
Installation
I evaluated namp with the Manjaro distribution. There’s a package in the Arch User Repository which I installed with pamac, Manjaro’s GUI package manager.
Installation proceeded with no issues, so I’ll keep this part short.
In Operation
Running namp shows the keyboard shortcuts and how to start listening to your music collection.
Here’s an image of namp in action.
I mostly tested the software with FLAC and MP3s.
Summary
namp is a reasonable minimalistic terminal-based music player. Certainly nothing to write home about though.
I believe that a music player should always offer gapless playback. This means the seamless transition between consecutive audio tracks, keeping the original timing intact. It’s particularly important for genres like classical, electronic, concept albums, and progressive rock. Unfortunately, not all Linux music players provide this essential feature.
Sadly namp falls into the minority camp bereft of gapless playback. That’s a showstopper in my book. For the finest terminal-based Linux music players check out this roundup.
Website: github.com/d99kris/namp
Support:
Developer: Kristofer Berggren
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
namp is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.