Headphones Review
Last Updated: Feb 12, 2024
| Rating |  |
| Price | Free |
| Features | Automated Audio Downloader |
| Integrable With NZBGet & SABnzbd | |
| Written in Python | |
| Simple and Modern Interface |
There are different applications today that enable you to keep an eye out for video files that become available and then automatically download them for you. Popular video downloaders called PVR applications like Sickbeard, CouchPotato, and Sonarr do this for you. Headphones works in the same manner as these PVRs but focuses on audio files. It works with various programs including but not limited to SABnzbd, NZBget, Transmission, µTorrent, and Deluge, allowing you to utilize NZB files to download audio files that you’re interested in.
This application is continuously updated, with its latest version, v0.6.5, released in September 2023. If you check their GitHub page, you will see that Headphones is being regularly monitored and maintained by its contributors.
Highlighted Features
Headphones has been in active development for many years now. With continuous improvements, it has advanced significantly to provide users with a more enhanced downloading experience, optimizing the entire Usenet experience by providing convenience and efficiency.
Headphones supports several types of files and has features that make it a favorite among audio enthusiasts. Written in Python, Headphones can work on different operating systems, including macOS, Linux, Windows, FreeBSD, Synology NAS, Docker, and Raspberry Pi.
- Automatic Audio Downloader
- Python Script for All Platforms
- Supports NZB and Torrent Downloads
- Works with Programs: NZBGet, SABnzbd, Transmission, uTorrent, Deluge, and Blackhole
- Automatic Metadata Downloading
- Downloads Associated Tags Automatically
- Supports MP3 and FLAC Files
- Simple yet Attractive Interface
- Customizable Settings Including Quality, Metadata, and Post-Processing Options
- Search Library Feature
- Well-Formatted Artist Overview and Album Page
- Headphones VIP Server Integration
Plans & Pricing
Headphones remains a completely free application. While there is no direct information on whether its developers accept donations, users are encouraged to support the project by contributing to feature development, resolving support tickets, and providing bug fixes.
Usage Overview
Since there is no installer readily available for Headphones, installation requires a few command line instructions based on your operating system. However, once Headphones is set up, it provides a smooth experience.
Headphones is a convenient tool to search for quality audio files and automate the downloading process by integrating it with popular downloaders. Its simple and clean interface provides an aesthetically pleasing experience, combined with user-friendly navigation. Users can also customize their file downloading and management through multiple configurable settings.
Installation
For the complete installation guide, refer to Headphones’ installation wiki.
Configuration
Headphones has multiple configuration tabs to adjust settings to your preferences, improving overall user experience. You will first need to configure network settings like the hostname, port, and username/password for the web interface.
Ensure you have a subscription with a reliable Usenet service provider before beginning. Input the server information from your provider in the Search Provider tab.
Other settings include download methods, file quality preferences, and advanced options for re-encoding, sleep intervals, and more.
Scheduling & Automation
With several configurable settings, Headphones can automate many of its functions. Users can enable notifications for when files or information become available and set sleep intervals to suit their needs.
Usability
Headphones is easy to use, with a clean and modern interface. It provides configurable settings that take the downloading experience to the next level by integrating with popular downloaders and offering flexibility to match user preferences.
Headphones also links with platforms like Last.FM and MusicBrainz for metadata, providing detailed information on artists and albums.
Conclusion
The biggest advantage of using Headphones is convenience. Similar to PVRs and other automated music downloaders like Lidarr, Headphones makes the downloading process seamless. It integrates well with popular torrent and NZB downloaders and offers customizable settings to suit user preferences. If you are an audiophile who frequently uses Usenet, Headphones is definitely worth considering.
