Yazsoft has introduced Playback Media Server 1.6 (http://www.yazsoft.com/products/playback/information), an update of their zero configuration media server for Mac OS X 10.5 and higher. The upgrade sports a redesigned media management system.
Version 1.6 also improves Spotlight query performance. iTunes, iPhoto, and Aperture integration has been completely overhauled. The “playback_discovery” process has been eliminated. And version 1.6 adds support for Adobe Lightroom 3.
Playback can share media stored in folders or even make entire disks available to a Playstation 3 or Xbox 360. No configuration is required. By default, it will share almost any content on the users system. And Playback automatically integrates with iTunes, iPhoto, and Aperture. Users can share all content from these applications transparently or choose specific playlists and albums.
Those who like to tinker will appreciate Playback’s built-in Access Control List (ACL) and bandwidth throttling. The ACL allows users to control which devices have access to their media. Bandwidth throttling limits the transfer rate from the computer to their UPnP device. This allows others on the network to do other Internet related activities, such as surf the web and check their email.
Media is served via lighttpd, the same technology that powers YouTube, Wikipedia, and other sites. Other Playback features include Growl notifications, Spotlight based searching, on-screen thumbnails (powered by QuickLook), and more. Playback even includes a Status menu, which displays live stream info at a glance.
Playback costs US$15 for three licenses, and can be purchased from the Yazsoft web site. A seven-day demo is available for download. Version 1.6 is a free update for registered users.
