Need help with cvlc on linux (ubuntu/raspberryPi)

[nsingh713]

Hi Everyone,

I am trying to automate playback of playlists (with multiple audio mp3 files) infinitely during scheduled intervals through cronjob and cvlc.

However, I am not clear how to achieve it. I can play a single playlist cvlc --loop file:///pathToPlaylist it plays, however, if I run another command then 2 cvlc process runs in parallel causing 2 music files to play together.

Is there a better way to automate the playback of the playlist and ensure only 1 cvlc process runs when the next playlist gets triggered? additionally, if there is an option to achieve cross fade between the tracks that will be helpful.

I appreciate your guidance on this issue.

Thanks

[nsingh713]

I managed to get only a single cvlc instance working by adjusting preferences through VLC GUI. However, I noticed that the sound has a bit of crackling & static sound. I am not sure if I have to manually specify the codec or default is good. I am testing using a VMware workstation (8gb ram, 2 vcpu). Eventually, I will use physical Raspberry 4b but just want to make sure that playback automation works before I invest $$$