HiFi Control

HiFi Control is a Windows desktop application that connects to and controls network-enabled HiFi equipment from brands such as NAD, Bluesound, DALI, Monitor Audio, Denon, and Marantz. The software supports BluOS and HEOS platforms, provides global keyboard shortcuts, Microsoft Surface Dial integration, Dirac Live profile comparison, and multi-device presets. It operates from the system tray, allowing users to manage playback and volume without opening a full window.

★★★★★

4.3(3 ratings)

• Global keyboard shortcuts. HiFi Control assigns key combinations that work while any other application is active. The user can raise or lower volume, skip tracks, pause playback, select a specific input, or load a saved preset without switching windows. Each command has its own configurable shortcut and operates in the background.
• Multi-device presets. A preset groups simultaneous actions across different connected audio devices. Pressing one key can change the living room amplifier input, start a playlist on the studio player, and adjust the kitchen device volume. Each preset stores the state of all involved devices and executes actions in a defined order.
• Dirac Live A/B profile comparison. For users performing room correction with Dirac Live, HiFi Control provides a function that toggles between two active correction curves on the same device. This allows real-time evaluation of sonic differences during listening. The application sends direct commands to the device Dirac processor.
• System tray mini player. Clicking the tray icon opens a compact window showing the current track title, artist, volume level, and playback status. From this panel the user can control basic functions (play, pause, previous, next, volume up/down) without opening the main interface.
• Microsoft Surface Dial support. When a Surface Dial is detected, HiFi Control assigns main volume control of the active device. Rotating the Dial sends the volume command to the selected amplifier or player. A long press can be configured to mute or switch between devices.
• Automatic device discovery on network. On startup, HiFi Control scans the local network for compatible devices (BluOS or HEOS). Each device is identified by its name, model, and IP address. If the IP changes (due to DHCP renewal), the software automatically reconnects and updates the address without manual intervention.
• Input and source selection control. For amplifiers with multiple inputs (optical, coaxial, HDMI ARC, USB, analog), the application allows direct source selection from a dropdown menu or via a keyboard shortcut. It also displays which input is currently active and allows renaming of each port label.
• Spotify and Tidal integration. HiFi Control connects to active Spotify Connect or Tidal Connect sessions on compatible network devices. The user can resume playback, skip tracks, adjust volume, and view track progress. Communication uses official APIs from each service without requiring additional applications.
• Local queue and playlist management. The application includes a queue manager that works with files stored on the PC or on network servers (DLNA, SMB). Users can create playlists, drag and drop to reorder songs, remove items, and save the queue as a preset. Playback is sent to the selected HiFi device.
• Direct links to product manuals. For each detected model, HiFi Control generates a button that opens the official manufacturer manual in PDF format (downloaded or online). This provides quick access to technical specifications, error solutions, or advanced command descriptions without manual web searching.
• Command line control. HiFi Control accepts arguments when launched from a shortcut or script. For example, "HiFiControl.exe --volume 45 --device livingroom" changes the volume without opening the graphical interface. This feature allows integration with automation tools such as AutoHotkey, EventGhost, or PowerShell scripts.
• Independent profiles for multiple zones. If a single physical device has multiple zones (for example, a NAD amplifier with zone 2 independent), HiFi Control creates separate controls for each zone. The user can name each zone (Living Room, Patio, Bedroom) and adjust volume, mute, and source individually. Keyboard shortcuts can also be assigned per zone.

Development history: HiFi Control was created by an independent developer specializing in audio automation. The first stable version was released in 2020, initially supporting only BluOS devices. Over subsequent years, HEOS support (Denon and Marantz) was added, along with Surface Dial integration, Dirac Live comparison, and multi-device presets. The software is written primarily in C# on the .NET framework (Windows Forms and WPF for the interface). Communication with network devices uses proprietary BluOS protocols (REST API and telnet) and HEOS (HTTP JSON).

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