How to Use the Command 'play' from SoX (with examples)

The ‘play’ command is a versatile utility available within SoX (Sound eXchange), an open-source sound processing tool. This powerful tool allows users to play audio files of various formats based on their file extensions. Whether you need to play a single audio file or modify its playback characteristics, ‘play’ provides a range of useful functionalities to accommodate different audio playback requirements.

Use case 1: Play the given audio file

Code:

play path/to/audio_file

Motivation:
This basic use case is perfect for individuals who simply want to listen to an audio file without any additional processing or modifications. Whether it’s a music track, a podcast episode, or an audio recording, the need often arises to quickly preview a file to ensure it is the correct one or to enjoy its content. This command enables you to accomplish this effortlessly.

Explanation:

• play: This is the command that invokes the SoX play utility to execute audio playback.
• path/to/audio_file: This argument specifies the exact path to the audio file you wish to play. Replace this with the actual file path on your system.

Example output:
Upon execution, the specified audio file begins playing through the system’s default audio output device. You’ll hear the audio content audibly through your speakers or headphones.

Use case 2: Play the given audio files

Code:

play path/to/audio_file1 path/to/audio_file2 ...

Motivation:
In situations where you have multiple audio files that need to be played one after another, such as a playlist of songs or multiple audio tracks for reviewing, the ability to sequentially play these files is highly beneficial. This command facilitates convenient audio management by eliminating the need to manually start each track.

Explanation:

• play: Invokes the SoX play command to handle audio playback.
• path/to/audio_file1 path/to/audio_file2 ...: Lists multiple audio file paths, separated by spaces, that you want to play sequentially. You should replace these placeholders with actual file paths.

Example output:
Playback begins with the first file in the sequence. After it finishes, the next file starts automatically, continuing through the list until all files have been played.

Use case 3: Play the given audio at twice the speed

Code:

play path/to/audio_file speed 2.0

Motivation:
Playing audio at an increased speed is particularly useful for individuals who wish to quickly review content, such as podcasts, lectures, or interviews. By doubling the playback speed, you can save time while still extracting the necessary information from the audio content.

Explanation:

• play: Initiates the ‘play’ command from SoX for audio playback.
• path/to/audio_file: Indicates the location of the audio file to be played.
• speed 2.0: Affects the playback speed, with ‘2.0’ indicating twice the normal speed. The speed factor is adjustable, allowing for more or less rapid playback.

Example output:
The audio plays at double the speed, providing a faster-paced version of the original content without affecting pitch significantly.

Use case 4: Play the given audio in reverse

Code:

play path/to/audio_file reverse

Motivation:
Playing an audio file in reverse can be intriguing for sound designers, audio engineers, or creative artists who seek to analyze sound compositions or explore unique audio effects. This technique can be employed for artistic purposes or to uncover audio characteristics not immediately apparent in forward playback.

Explanation:

• play: Calls upon the SoX utility to manage audio playback.
• path/to/audio_file: Directs the command to the specific audio file you want to play in reverse.
• reverse: A flag that commands SoX to process and play the audio backwards.

Example output:
The audio begins playing from the end to the beginning, creating an unusual and often captivating effect as sounds and sequences are heard in reverse order.

Conclusion:

The ‘play’ command from SoX - Sound eXchange offers robust audio playback capabilities that cater to a wide range of needs, from simple playback to advanced speed and direction manipulations. Whether you’re an audio professional, a music enthusiast, or simply looking to engage with sound files in more interactive ways, understanding and leveraging these functions can significantly enhance your audio experience.