Real Alternative

Q:I can't repeat (or stop and play again) RealMedia files in Media Player Classic
A:

This is a 'bug' (or limitation) in Media Player Classic.

The only way to replay the file is to re-open the file.


Q:Some .rm files cause Media Player Classic to crash
A:

Solutions:

  • Change the name of the file so that it only contains letters and numbers. Remove all non ASCII characters.
  • Rename the file from .rm to .rmvb

Q:I suddenly can no longer play .ram files in Media Player Classic. I get a "cannot render the file" error.
A:

Media Player Classic options -> Player -> Formats

Scroll down to "Real Media File". Behind it you should see "RealMedia". If you see "DirectShow", then click on it and change it to "RealMedia".

This option sometimes resets itself. It is currently unknown to us when and why that happens.


Q:I have problems playing some RealMedia files
A:

Use Media Player Classic. It can handle RealMedia files better than other players.

If you use an external instance of Media Player Classic, then make sure it is properly configured. See topic above.

Rename your file to .rmvb. If it already is a .rmvb file, then do the opposite, rename it to .rm.

Media Player Classic will play .rmvb files using DirectShow and .rm files using the RealMedia engine. That's why renaming can make a difference.


Q:I can't play streaming RealMedia in Windows Media Player
A:

You must use Media Player Classic to play streaming RealMedia. Other players are not supported.


Q:I have troubles displaying RealMedia files on my secondary monitor
A:

Rename your file to .rmvb


Q:Playback of QuickTime or RealMedia video is very pixelated in Media Player Classic
A:

This can be fixed by changing the rendering method.

MPC options -> Playback -> Output

Select either the DirectX 7 or DirectX 9 mode for QuickTime and RealMedia. At least one of the two should give proper playback.


Q:Is there a 64-bit version of Real Alternative?
A:

No.