Audio Devices

MZAP supports three types of audio output devices. The device type is configured via settings before initialization.

DirectSound

The legacy Windows audio API. Provides the widest hardware compatibility but highest latency.

• Use when: Maximum device compatibility is needed
• Latency: ~50-100ms
• Mode: Shared (other apps can use the device simultaneously)

WASAPI (Default)

Windows Audio Session API — the recommended choice for most installations.

• Use when: Good balance of latency and compatibility is needed
• Latency: ~10-30ms
• Mode: Exclusive (dedicated access) or shared
• Buffer: Configurable, default 50ms

ASIO

Audio Stream Input/Output — designed for professional audio hardware.

• Use when: Lowest latency and multi-channel I/O are required
• Latency: ~1-10ms
• Mode: Exclusive
• Inputs: ASIO input channels are available as audio capture sources
• Drivers: Requires ASIO-compatible hardware or ASIO4ALL

Device Initialization

When you click Initialize Devices, MZAP:

1. Initializes a silent internal device for stream operations
2. Enumerates all devices of the configured type
3. Filters out duplicate “Default” pseudo-devices
4. Creates zones for each channel on each device
5. Starts the level metering service

Hot-Plug Support

MZAP detects when devices are connected or disconnected. Use Refresh Devices to re-enumerate without restarting the application.