PipeWire, an open-source multimedia framework, has rolled out version 1.2.2, a targeted update that addresses a range of bugs found in previous releases.
The release, compatible with prior 1.2.x and 1.0.x versions, focuses on a series of important corrections:
- Audio Performance: The update addresses a notable issue involving asynchronous node operations that previously led to audio crackling, xruns (buffer underflows and overflows), and occasional crashes in certain scenarios.
- Freewheeling Timeouts: A critical fix has been applied to manage freewheeling timeouts triggered by xruns, streamlining processes such as audio exports in applications like Ardour.
- JACK Compatibility: The JACK audio connection kit’s event mixdown processes have been adjusted, enhancing compatibility and performance with applications like Qsynth.
Apart from the abovementioned, PipeWire 1.2.2 also brings several system-wide improvements:
- SPA Layer Upgrades: A new flag has been added to better manage xrun recovery during audio processing, helping maintain consistent audio quality even when under strain.
- Node and Memory Management: The update ensures nodes are fully stopped when required, preventing sporadic xruns and scheduling issues. It also incorporates better memory management techniques, potentially reducing the overall memory footprint of multimedia applications.
- Module Stability: The stability of various modules has been reinforced, allowing them to remain loaded even when stream errors occur, facilitating quicker recovery from such errors.
Lastly, adjustments in handling audio events, especially within the JACK environment, ensure smoother operations. Changes include fixes to timestamp management and midi event delivery in applications like Qsynth, enhancing the overall reliability and user experience.
Refer to theย changelogย for more information about all changes in the new version.
