XMPlay v1.0 - Copyright (c) 1997-98 Ian Luck. All rights reserved
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Files that you should have found in the XMPlay package
======================================================
XMPLAY.EXE    The executable
XMPLAY.TXT    This file
FILE_ID.DIZ   BBS description file


What's the point?
=================
This is the stand-alone player version of XM-EXE, a program that creates
executables of XM files. So now there's no need to create an EXE to get
that XM-EXE quality! XMPlay can also play MODs.

As with XM-EXE, it's got the best (most accurate to FT2) XM reproduction
that I've heard from any player. All features/effects are 100% supported.
I hope ;)


Main Features
=============
* Balls-on Accurate
- plays XMs the way nature intended, unlike most other players.

* Sample Interpolation
- linear/spline interpolated sample mixing.

* Volume/Pan Ramping
- for output that's smoother than a baby's arse.

* 16 bit Sample Mixing
- 16 bit samples NOT converted to 8 bit, unlike some other players.

* 5 Band Equalizer
- adjustable gain at five frequency bands.

* Spectrum Analyzer
- Something to look at while the music plays. :)

* Surround Sound
- errr ... hmmm ... surround yourself in sound!

* Dragon droppings supported :)
- drag your XMs into XMPlay

* Nice GUI! :)
- customizeable colour scheme


The Equalizer
=============
If you don't have your sound card output going through an equalizer (or a
hi-fi with one) then you can use this option to provide one.

The equalizer's five centre frequencies are 70hz, 350hz, 1000hz, 3500hz
and 10000hz. By using the equalizer you can emphasise or weaken these
frequencies. For example, you can boost the bass by using a positive gain
at the low frequencies, or you can boost the treble by using a positive
gain at the high frequencies. The gains are meusured in dB, a gain of 10dB
doubles the level of the frequency, a gain of -10dB halves the level, a
gain of 0dB leaves the level as it is.


The "Output Options" Window
===========================
LI/SI = Linear/Spline Interpolation switch
R     = Ramping switch (off/normal/sensitive)
S     = Surround Sound switch
Eq    = Equalizer switch

The graphic equalizer sliders range from +10dB (top) to -10dB (bottom).


The "Colours" Window
====================
You can change the colour scheme of the GUI. Use the scroller on the right
to select the element you wish to change the colour of and then use the
three colour (red/green/blue) bars on the bottom. When you have finished
making changes, close the "Colours" window to apply the changes.

These are the 7 elements you can change the colour of :
        Text (includes the button text/symbols)
        Selected text (includes the button text/symbols)
        Inactive window frame and caption
        Activated window frame and caption
        Button frame
        Selected button frame
        Title text


The Keyboard Shortcuts
======================
 P (or Pause) = pause/play
         Home = restart
  left cursor = rewind
 right cursor = forward
      Page Up = previous track
    Page Down = next track
          +/- = adjust volume
            I = interpolation switch
            R = ramping switch
            S = surround sound switch
            Q = equalizer switch


Latest Version
==============
The latest version of XMPlay can always be found at the XMPlay homepage :

        http://www.icl.ndirect.co.uk/music/


Copyright, Disclaimer, and all that other jazz
==============================================
This program is free for non-commercial use, so if anyone tries to charge
you for it kick 'em where it hurts. But, if you can't live with the guilt
of using a quality piece of software like this without paying then by all
means send a few presidents heads (of the paper variety) my way, to ease
your conscience.

This software is provided as-is. The author makes absolutely no
warranties on it. You use it at your own risk. The author shall not be
held responsible for any damage that may result from its use, including,
but not limited to, burning your toast while being too engrossed in the
XMPlay "experience".

All trademarks and other registered names contained in the XMPlay package
are the property of their respective owners.


History
=======
1.0 - 15/7/98
-------------
First Release


Bug Reports, Suggestions, Coments, Problems etc...
==================================================
If you have any of the aforementioned you can email :

        xmplay@icl.ndirect.co.uk
