getmusicbee.com

General => General Discussions => Topic started by: Steven on October 02, 2016, 11:07:51 AM

Title: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on October 02, 2016, 11:07:51 AM
I think v3.0 is in good enough state now to move the focus onto v3.1 after i do the next update release for v3.0 probably later this week.

Version 3.0 was focused on changes to the GUI that endeavour1934 proposed. For myself i am still very pleased with the changes but i accept there are some things that still need improving (particularily playlist management which i have already made changes in v3.1).
However i do know there has been a few negative reactions. I guess thats to be expected from any significant change made. Personally i think its mostly from people who expect things to work a certain way and have trouble adjusting - perhaps the one thing which is most obvious is not realising that you can click the panel headers to get the context menu. So any comments you have about short-comings or suggested improvements to the GUI will be considered for v3.1

There are too many items on the wishlist so it might be useful for people to comment on high-level things (without going into the solution) that can be improved or added. These are a few random things that come to mind:
- simplify the settings
at minimum i would look to by default have a reduced set of options available and an Advanced button to show all the options.
- cloud storage
i have asked about this in the past and never got much interest
- ability to export layout settings

I dont have as much spare time these days to look at this. I am still willing to put in effort but not to make wholesale changes again like with v3.0 or do things that require significant change for what i see as little benefit.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Iasc on October 02, 2016, 11:36:45 AM
For my own personal use music bee does pretty much everything i need it to do. The work done on it for this version has been exceptional and an all round major improvement. The only issues for me at this stage are the ugly and annoying mini lyrics window, would be great if it could be integrated into musicbee so synchronised lyrics could downloaded without it being necessary and to have more control over having fanart and thumbnails organised into to the relevant folders instead of lumped in to one folder.
For the suggested improvements i personally have no use for cloud storage but for new users and people with more basic needs i think simplifying the settings would be helpful, it took me a while to get used to musicbee when i initially used it and the settings have more than doubled since then.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Ronin47 on October 02, 2016, 12:42:32 PM
All your hard work is appreciated mate
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: phred on October 02, 2016, 03:07:52 PM
These are a few random things that come to mind:
- simplify the settings
at minimum i would look to by default have a reduced set of options available and an Advanced button to show all the options.
- ability to export layout settings
These are the things that I think will help new users the most. Seasoned users, for the most part, already know their way around MB. But a frequent question on the forum is "how do I get my MB to look like this one." Therefore the ability to export the layout would be great. And the 'beginner' vs 'advanced' settings option should also help reduce confusion and mistakes by new users.

Personally I'm quite happy with the GUI and the operation of v3. Steven has already stated that the few changes that are important to me will be incorporated into 3.1, so again, I'm happy.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: boroda on October 02, 2016, 03:55:11 PM
There are the only two things that I think will help new users the most. Seasoned users, for the most part, already know their way around MB. But a frequent question on the forum is "how do I get my MB to look like this one." Therefore the ability to export the layout would be great. And the 'beginner' vs 'advanced' settings option should also help reduce confusion and mistakes by new users.
+1
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: psychoadept on October 02, 2016, 04:12:32 PM
I agree that MusicBee is in better shape than ever.  I wasn't super invested in the GUI changes at first, but after using 3.0 for a while I have been won over.

The one major thing that I can think of for improvement at this point would be better artwork management.  This would include:
*ability to see all artwork attached to a file in the main panel, or at the very least the number of images (for instance, a small number overlay that could be displayed on the artwork shown)
*easier access to and use of artwork sizes, both dimensions and storage space
*some better tool for editing multiple artworks than the current tag editor panel
*ability to know and control whether you're overwriting existing artwork when you save new ones outside of the tag editor
*ability to quickly see if all tracks from the same album have the same artwork (not just similar images, but actually the same)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on October 02, 2016, 06:10:45 PM
For 3.1 I'd like you to focus more on minor details than on adding big new features since 3.0 was a huge change that still needs to be ironed out lots of place.

For instance, why can't Now Playing tab show playing tracks list in the sidebar when a TM view is displayed?

http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=19544.0

Also, why not add "Configure panel" command directly to expanded panel's context menu like v2.5 instead of only allowing access from artwork view configuration panel?

What's bugging me most time from using 3.0 is mostly these small details, not the lack of features.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: alec.tron on October 03, 2016, 04:25:31 AM
My wishlist in order of personal preference/importance:
1) improved playlist management (I was already hugely impressed when I learned that re-located files apply to all instances among all playlists of the same. Well done!).
2) simplify the settings
3) settings.ini - de-couple "library" settings from "player" settings for easier backup/re-loading
4) one small finicky bit I struggle with still that somewhat ties into #2 above - I use 2 main layouts of columns/set-displayed-fields [one simplistic one for every day listening use, and one with a LOT of fields shown to clean up/tag data] - in MusicBee's tracks view I do not have a good way to switch/save/apply column view settings globally (the concept of when you need to copy the main view into a custom one so it's populated into new ones as mentioned by psychoadept on forum & twiki still eludes me...)
5) itunes.xml export as a means to export playlists from MB to Serato/Traktor/Rekordbox

As always, I only recently switched to MB, so excuses if I overlooked something that does exist.
Cheers & thanks a ton for one of the best media players!
c.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on October 03, 2016, 05:56:37 AM
Regarding this:

- simplify the settings
at minimum i would look to by default have a reduced set of options available and an Advanced button to show all the options.

also consider adding quick settings for panel layout:  

Though it's great having an almost boundless customizability, it's a little cumbersome having to open panel layout editor and then open panel settings again to adjust small settings every time. How about adding a drop-down menu to "Configure Layout" button (like v2.5 with a small triangle icon next to it) and show some quick settings people use most often? It could show tabs bar settings, column browser layout, AZ bar, show/hide left/right main panel, player control location, etc. Also it could display show/hide headbar setting and panel settings for the selected tab.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on October 03, 2016, 10:10:29 PM
Though it's great having an almost boundless customizability, it's a little cumbersome having to open panel layout editor and then open panel settings again to adjust small settings every time. How about adding a drop-down menu to "Configure Layout" button (like v2.5 with a small triangle icon next to it) and show some quick settings people use most often? It could show tabs bar settings, column browser layout, AZ bar, show/hide left/right main panel, player control location, etc. Also it could display show/hide headbar setting and panel settings for the selected tab.
Thats a good idea. i think i would add a new button for that because the panel layout button can be customised in a skin so the icon used wont necessarily suit having an arrow appended to the side. If anyone has a good icon to use for that then please PM me or post the suggestion here (I prefer not to use the usual settings wheel icon because thats already used for when toolbar buttons are consolidated (although i guess i could change that icon)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Bee-liever on October 03, 2016, 10:44:28 PM
Though it's great having an almost boundless customizability, it's a little cumbersome having to open panel layout editor and then open panel settings again to adjust small settings every time. How about adding a drop-down menu to "Configure Layout" button (like v2.5 with a small triangle icon next to it) and show some quick settings people use most often? It could show tabs bar settings, column browser layout, AZ bar, show/hide left/right main panel, player control location, etc. Also it could display show/hide headbar setting and panel settings for the selected tab.
Thats a good idea. i think i would add a new button for that because the panel layout button can be customised in a skin so the icon used wont necessarily suit having an arrow appended to the side. If anyone has a good icon to use for that then please PM me or post the suggestion here (I prefer not to use the usual settings wheel icon because thats already used for when toolbar buttons are consolidated (although i guess i could change that icon)
you already get a tooltip (Configure Layout) when you hover over the layout button, maybe an appended arrow could made visible when hovering over the button?

as to other ideas for 3.1, I would echo others thoughts here on:

although I use cloud storage, I'm undecided on it's integration into MB
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on October 03, 2016, 11:06:54 PM
i think i would add a new button for that because the panel layout button can be customised in a skin so the icon used wont necessarily suit having an arrow appended to the side.

Maybe without additional icon first drop-down menu item could be "Arrange Panels" that opens up the panel configuration pane.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Alumni on October 04, 2016, 01:35:44 PM
Speaking of simplifying the preferences screen, the sync screen could do with a makeover. As of now it gets the job done, but it's not as user friendly or intuitive as it could be.

See this example from iTunes;
https://cdn.igeeksblog.com/wp-content/uploads/Check-Sync-Music-in-iTunes.jpg

PS: How about a new default icon for MusicBee? The current one looks outdated next to other modern app icons, especially on Windows 10.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Sofocl on October 04, 2016, 05:17:57 PM
PS: How about a new default icon for MusicBee? The current one looks outdated next to other modern app icons, especially on Windows 10.
+1
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Leodj on October 04, 2016, 08:40:47 PM
Please try to fix accurate data from Internet on albums and artist pictures could be from Wikipedia, Discogs and Lastfm.. sometimes the artist info doesnt match
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: SuperMagicom on October 05, 2016, 01:36:38 AM
How about a function to export the "Now Playing" list to a playlist?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: phred on October 05, 2016, 02:38:39 AM
Already exists (somewhat.)
Select the tracks in the Now Playing panel > right-click > Add to Playlist > New Playlist
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Sofocl on October 07, 2016, 12:07:25 AM
Full customization "Header Bar".
http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=19865.0
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on October 07, 2016, 07:03:41 AM
Please dont use this topic to add specific wishlist requests (not directed at anyone in particular). This topic is intended as a high-level discussion for the overall direction
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: CritterMan on October 08, 2016, 09:19:16 PM
The configuration options are extensive, and that's one of the primary reasons I choose to use and support MB. Navigating the options can be a bit of a chore and the organizational structure could use some simplification and streamlining, but losing options altogether would detract from the experience as a whole. A completely rebuilt hierarchical structure for options and settings could be a drastic improvement to the experience.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Pat on October 25, 2016, 07:11:43 PM
MB3 does pretty much everything I want for playing music files. Thanks for that.
The visual representation of Internet Radio stations on the other hand is not on par. That would be my suggestion for improvement. Speaking of which, the retrieval of the correct artist pictures for an internet radio stream is sometimes way off. Perhaps that too.

Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: ormgard on October 26, 2016, 08:27:23 AM
please do features:
1.reading library files/albums from zip/rar archives;
2. is it possible to make a compatibility plugins for foobar2000?
3. scrolling information about the current file in the task bar (Ticker)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: alec.tron on November 04, 2016, 04:11:24 AM
Hai.
I thought I'd update mine, as playlist have been made expand & collapse-able and respects multiple nested folders too. yay! Thanks for that Steven btw!

My current wishlist:
1) exportable / save-able / load-able layout files (per tab) plus a way to save & re-apply the 'set displayed field' settings for list/track view
2) simplify / restructure the main MB settings
3) respect MusicBee playlist organisational structures (folders, nested folders & playlists)  in itunes.xml export
4) settings.ini - de-couple "library" settings from "player" settings for easier backup/re-loading

I guess the bottom 2 are rather specific... but what else to list on this otherwise perfect music player... :D
Churs.
c.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Bee-liever on November 05, 2016, 02:38:30 AM
Maybe a bit of work on the toolbar?
http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=20124.0 (http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=20124.0)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Bee-liever on November 05, 2016, 04:25:36 AM
as discussed here: http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=20122.0 (http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=20122.0)
the toolbar+buttons are referred to as such everywhere except in the 'MusicBee Panels Configuration' where they are referred to as the 'command buttons'.
A clean-up of these (and any others still lurking about) mis-matched terms could go on the 3.1 list
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Sofocl on November 07, 2016, 02:09:49 PM
Oh, a similar tool that would let us see and select multiple images for download would be icing on the cake... But not nearly as high a priority, imo.
+1
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: klint on November 07, 2016, 02:35:13 PM
Hi
I have taken time to switch to 3.0, but I'm now fully pleased with the new layout.

I know this is not in any of the directions you have proposed for new features in 3.1.
Anyway, if I may, one of the main feature I'm using is podcast management, very powerful in MB. I have almost 100 different subscriptions thanks to MB.
The only thing I'm missing (and that would complete the implementation of podcasts in MB imho) is be the ability to manage podcasts subscriptions in a tree rather than in a flat list.

Apart from that, I'm quite satisfied :)
Thanks


Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: fkm on November 09, 2016, 10:27:46 PM
+1 for player layout / settings backup (as opposed to library backup)

With all the customisation and toolbar shortcuts I've tweaked, it becomes a bit of onerous to have to replicate them all on my other PC's!
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Nokiaman on November 12, 2016, 08:38:50 AM
Bring back Stop button please
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on November 12, 2016, 09:29:27 AM
Please post any specific requests to the wishlist board. This topic is intended for "high level direction" type comments.
Title: Classical
Post by: vincent kars on November 13, 2016, 11:53:32 AM
I would appreciate a better handling of classical.

This means MB should be aware of the concept of a composition.
Basically this is the same as an album, a couple of tracks having the same value in a “composition” tag.
A "simple" solution would be that one can swap Album Name for “Composition” in Preference > Sorting/Grouping > Grouping

Smart sorting would be appreciated as well
Sonate No.1
Sonate No.10
Sonate No.2
Is  very inconvenient but inherent to an alphabetical sort

Sonate No.1
Sonate No.2
…..
Sonate No.9
Sonate No.10
Is what we need when sorting classical

Title: Re: Classical
Post by: Steven on November 13, 2016, 06:42:17 PM
I would appreciate a better handling of classical.
i am happy to look at making improvements for classical music handling
Title: Re: Classical
Post by: psychoadept on November 13, 2016, 09:43:03 PM
I would appreciate a better handling of classical.
i am happy to look at making improvements for classical music handling

+1!
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: vincent kars on November 13, 2016, 09:50:08 PM
Nice, thanks

Vincent
Title: Re: Classical
Post by: Sofocl on November 14, 2016, 04:23:16 PM
I would appreciate a better handling of classical.
i am happy to look at making improvements for classical music handling
+1
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on November 14, 2016, 06:31:52 PM
for the classical music handling improvements i have set up a separate topic:
http://getmusicbee.com/forum/index.php?topic=20209.0
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: brx on November 19, 2016, 09:04:56 PM
I think that the sound is enhanced in this version, which is a good thing, sounds fresh or I'm overreacting... :)
Btw, drag n drop is not working anymore or I'm missing something...
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: nadash on December 21, 2016, 02:56:02 AM
I want to see development and improvement. Because your progress Like our development. : :)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Dpmusicbee on January 02, 2017, 10:51:48 PM
Appreciate the hard work Steve. i like to know where i can find the lateest 3.1 link and patch link for it. i have looked all over this site and can't find a direct link to 3.1

Thank You
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: CritterMan on January 02, 2017, 11:09:47 PM
A search for 3.1 patch finds it fairly quickly. http://musicbee.niblseed.com/V3_1/MusicBee31_Patched.zip (http://musicbee.niblseed.com/V3_1/MusicBee31_Patched.zip)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Chaython on January 03, 2017, 07:24:35 AM
[What I want in this release] crack and fully support apple m4p [without conversion] ;)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Maxxx on January 03, 2017, 01:57:25 PM
My desire. In the edit panel more space for the comments field. You can move year-track-drive on the left side, below rating album.
Thanks
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Dpmusicbee on January 03, 2017, 05:10:12 PM
Critterman Thank You for the link.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: orbittwz on January 08, 2017, 08:05:30 PM
Hey!
Just noticed the beta v3.1 version and immediately updated my build :)
First, the bass is great, i noticed it right away, and the separation between the stereo mixers, the sounds are crispier  :-*

Thank you very much, i will never switch to another music player again!
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on February 13, 2017, 09:03:37 AM
Some observations:

1.
When '1' is checked, field '2' will not be displayed anymore.
It would be good if that field was greyed-out then.

(http://i.imgur.com/NUk0U8A.png)



2.
For this layout, in the Album and Tracks layout panel I make no use of the 'Album' tag directly. (only by means of virtual tags)
Yet there will still be a column named Album.
That can be confusing, and it also prevents the option to deliberately set an actual 'Album' column.
 
(http://i.imgur.com/U6DQLiol.jpg) (http://i.imgur.com/U6DQLio.png)


3.
When analysing and writing loudness normalisation and have 'on album basis' selected, and you have the new 'movement' feature enabled, for those tracks normalisation will not be done on basis of 'album', but on basis of 'work'.
I do agree with that choice. But the wording in the panel might reflect that to prevent confusion for some.
(or perhaps make it a selectable option)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on February 18, 2017, 09:54:12 PM
And another one,

When the tag frame for 'Album Artist' is (deliberately) empty, in 'tracks' view, MusicBee seems to auto-fill that column with the contents of the 'Artist' tag.
That seems weird to me, I feel it should display empty if the tag is empty.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: boroda on February 19, 2017, 04:12:53 AM
that's what 'album artist' tag is intended for. actually there are 2 'album artist' tags in mb api: 1 is autofilled by artist if its empty and another doesn't. may its worth to add another 'album artist' tag to UI.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: rudolph on February 26, 2017, 03:43:45 PM
I see some improvements like smoother scrolling and quicker switching between menus, also Edit window looks a little bit different.

Actually I don't care much about this, I would like to see some new tagging tools like allmusic.com , etc...

I have 130 GB of music, and it's hard to keep it all organized.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on February 26, 2017, 03:44:01 PM
that's what 'album artist' tag is intended for. actually there are 2 'album artist' tags in mb api: 1 is autofilled by artist if its empty and another doesn't. may its worth to add another 'album artist' tag to UI.

If it is useful for some circumstances to have MB auto-filling Album Artist when the tag is actually empty, I will let this rest.
But personally I don't like such behavior. I prefer having things showing as they are.
Or at least there could perhaps be some indicator that MB 'overruled' an actually empty field?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on March 06, 2017, 05:26:21 PM
You can hide the panel header for e.g. the 'artist picture' panel by using the context menu of that header.
But obviously you cannot make it re-appear in the same manner.
I would expect that to be possible by using > Panels Configuration > artist picture settings, but it says 'No Settings' there.
It might be good to have this 'hide/show header' option available there?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: kamizon on March 06, 2017, 05:59:20 PM
You can hide the panel header for e.g. the 'artist picture' panel by using the context menu of that header.
But obviously you cannot make it re-appear in the same manner.
I would expect that to be possible by using > Panels Configuration > artist picture settings, but it says 'No Settings' there.
It might be good to have this 'hide/show header' option available there?

I just updated with a slightest chance of getting VST and playlists fixed, couldn't get that done however I noticed if you right click on the place where the header was, it gives you the exact same options as the header context menu. Show/Hide is available in both cases.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on March 06, 2017, 06:37:37 PM
I noticed if you right click on the place where the header was, it gives you the exact same options as the header context menu. Show/Hide is available in both cases.

Thanks, I must have missed that (by a pixel) when I tried it earlier.
Still I think it would be good if it was also available in the settings panel.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: kamizon on March 06, 2017, 07:20:19 PM
Thanks, I must have missed that (by a pixel) when I tried it earlier.
Still I think it would be good if it was also available in the settings panel.

Agreed. I think clicking on the show/hide header for playlist explorer under the playlist tab does not work until the app is restarted but that's not worrying me, it's that the library subsets (inbox, audiobooks etc) are removed from the playlist explorer. Now just to get to the inbox I'll have to change to the navigator panel first and with the headers hidden it's even more difficult.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on March 06, 2017, 07:27:46 PM
I think clicking on the show/hide header for playlist explorer under the playlist tab does not work until the app is restarted but that's not worrying me, it's that the library subsets (inbox, audiobooks etc) are removed from the playlist explorer. Now just to get to the inbox I'll have to change to the navigator panel first and with the headers hidden it's even more difficult.
working fine here
to edit a playlist, right click/ Edit Playlist and then you can drag files from any library location
or alternatively open the left sidebar and use playlists from there
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: kamizon on March 07, 2017, 06:30:02 PM
Then it must be me only. It's a good thought, layout looks far better without those headers. Thanks for the help steven.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: seibah on April 19, 2017, 05:49:55 AM
Library updates:
flac (1.3.1 -> 1.3.2)
OptimFROG (1.2.1.0 -> 1.6.0.0 (5100))
oggenc2 (2.85 -> 2.88)
wavpack (4.50.0 0 -> 5.1.0)

BASS updates:
ape (2.4.1.0 -> 2.4.2)
mpc (2.4.1.0 -> 2.4.1.2)
spx (2.4.1.0 -> 2.4.3.2)
tta (2.4.0.0 -> 2.4.0.2)
cd (2.4.5.0 -> 2.4.6)
dsd (2.4.0.0 -> 2.4.1)
enc (2.4.9.1 -> 2.4.13)
flac (2.4.2.0 -> 2.4.3)
hls (0.0.0.2 -> 0.0.0.6)
midi (2.4.9.0 -> 2.4.11)
mix (2.4.7.2 -> 2.4.8 )
opus (2.4.1.8 -> 2.4.1.9)
wma (2.4.4.9 -> 2.4.5.1)
wv (2.4.3.1 -> 2.4.6)
fx (2.4.8.0 -> 2.4.11.1)

Link to 7z for updated libs (http://www.mediafire.com/file/3r43jysa804d9ef/mb-libs-20170418.7z). oggenc2 is the SSE3 Lancer edition.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on May 31, 2017, 03:49:15 PM
You might want to consider making left navigator shown again in MB's default layout like pre-v3 versions.

Whenever I encounter v3's default layout from a fresh installation (for some tests), I get a bit lost when trying to playing tracks (without creating a library). I can imagine getting the left navigator displayed (just to locate and play some tracks) won't be an easy and obvious task for many new users. Some may get frustrated and lost, when they just want to test MB, before trying to find the option. But once they get accustomed to using MB, hiding left sidebar won't be an issue at all.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on May 31, 2017, 06:35:24 PM
You might want to consider making left navigator shown again in MB's default layout like pre-v3 versions.

Whenever I encounter v3's default layout from a fresh installation (for some tests), I get a bit lost when trying to playing tracks (without creating a library). I can imagine getting the left navigator displayed (just to locate and play some tracks) won't be an easy and obvious task for many new users. Some may get frustrated and lost, when they just want to test MB, before trying to find the option. But once they get accustomed to using MB, hiding left sidebar won't be an issue at all.
I assume you mean the user would locate the files in the Computer section of the left navigator? Even when the left navigator was always displayed in earlier versions there was still users who didnt realise they could navigate the folder structure.

I would classify iTunes and Groove as simple to use players. What is it they do differently that makes them easy to use for casual playback?
For all you can play directly from windows explorer or from the main menu to open a file or folder.
And with MB you have an additional option of dragging the files from windows explorer into the playing tracks panel.
So there are plenty of ways to do it, most of which i believe are common with other players
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on June 26, 2017, 10:47:05 AM
I was checking the (rather important) warning for users setting auto-organising the library without perhaps fully understanding the consequences.

When you check that checkbox, you do not get to see the warning message.
The 'organise library files' window immediately pops-up, also hiding the little exclamation mark that appeared behind it, where you might read the warning/explanatory message at hover-over.
You can then click 'proceed' and 'save' without having been confronted or having read the warning message at all.

It would probably be better to make it so that at checking that checkbox, that warning text always gets in view first and needs to be confirmed.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on June 28, 2017, 04:18:10 PM
Not that it makes much sense to drag the panel smaller with tag editor opened, but still, dragging the icons over the tabs gets a bit ugly:

(http://i.imgur.com/SVsmxBk.png)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on July 01, 2017, 11:47:18 AM
I believe it would be more consistent if this entry had a checkbox instead of a combobox.
It would also solve the problem of the text not fitting.

(http://i.imgur.com/gb74KZW.png)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on July 15, 2017, 05:13:40 AM
I had suggested adding "Arrange Panels" menu under View menu when releasing v3.0, but now it's no longer listed there. If you have removed it for some reason, please consider re-adding it as clicking on panel layout button won't be obvious to every new user. Yes, I know it's listed under left menu icon, but showing it under View menu will help most users when they need it.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on July 15, 2017, 10:09:58 AM
I believe it would be more consistent if this entry had a checkbox instead of a combobox.
It would also solve the problem of the text not fitting.
yes i agree and its done for the next update

I had suggested adding "Arrange Panels" menu under View menu when releasing v3.0, but now it's no longer listed there. If you have removed it for some reason, please consider re-adding it as clicking on panel layout button won't be obvious to every new user. Yes, I know it's listed under left menu icon, but showing it under View menu will help most users when they need it.
i will do this - not sure why i removed it
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on July 15, 2017, 05:20:12 PM
http://musicbee.niblseed.com/V3_1/MusicBee31_Patched.zip
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on July 21, 2017, 04:27:42 AM
You might want to consider making left navigator shown again in MB's default layout like pre-v3 versions.

Whenever I encounter v3's default layout from a fresh installation (for some tests), I get a bit lost when trying to playing tracks (without creating a library). I can imagine getting the left navigator displayed (just to locate and play some tracks) won't be an easy and obvious task for many new users. Some may get frustrated and lost, when they just want to test MB, before trying to find the option. But once they get accustomed to using MB, hiding left sidebar won't be an issue at all.
I assume you mean the user would locate the files in the Computer section of the left navigator? Even when the left navigator was always displayed in earlier versions there was still users who didnt realise they could navigate the folder structure.

Then show left navigator with all nodes expanded so that drives and folders will be visible.

I would classify iTunes and Groove as simple to use players. What is it they do differently that makes them easy to use for casual playback?
For all you can play directly from windows explorer or from the main menu to open a file or folder.
And with MB you have an additional option of dragging the files from windows explorer into the playing tracks panel.
So there are plenty of ways to do it, most of which i believe are common with other players

Don't compare it with apps that have huge user base and various kinds of resources available.
As MB is relatively unknown to most users, they have no confidence on what this app will do to their precious music files and tags. Probably lots of users will just close down the importing window MB shows at first run simply because they don't know what the scanning will do to their music files (moving? coping? updating files? modifying tags?). An assuring message would surely help on the importing window at its first run.
Then the user gets left just with several tabs. Won't be obvious how to navigate to their music folders, nor is obvious how to show such a navigator or even such a thing exists.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on July 21, 2017, 08:48:59 AM
Then show left navigator with all nodes expanded so that drives and folders will be visible.
yes i agree with that
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on July 21, 2017, 03:21:22 PM
I noticed library filter manager only shows three rows even though there's some room below it. At first I thought it was broken because it didn't show all of my filters.

(http://i.imgur.com/b6C03wx.png)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on July 24, 2017, 09:10:07 AM
One of frequently asked questions is why importing from different drives does not move files to the auto-organized library. How about showing a warning message that files are not being moved on the status bar whenever the user imports files from different drives with no additional drive mapping set? The message should include short instructions as well.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on July 31, 2017, 09:35:49 AM
(http://i.imgur.com/861Y8v2.png)

- The text +6dB is no longer aligned beneath it's marker.
- '0dB' doesn't have a marker that stands out a bit from the other markers
- The 'i' icon is very (too) close to the text.
- this particular icon doesn't turn out very well in all skins.
       perhaps change it like how it's done in the 'Arrange Panels' panel.
       or make a skinning image element available for it
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on July 31, 2017, 09:38:51 AM
The volume on/off icon in the taskbar player indicates the current status exactly reversed compared to how it's done everywhere else in MB.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on July 31, 2017, 05:13:51 PM
Borders for Controls.InputControl seem a bit broken, or at the least inconsistent.

E.g. in the Preferences > Library panel, the fields for 'map base file paths in exported playlists' will use the 'Disabled' bdr irrespective if it's activated or not.

But in the Sorting/Grouping panel, the 'ignore words:' field will use the 'Default' bdr irrespective if it's activated or not.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on August 06, 2017, 06:15:10 PM
Borders for Controls.InputControl seem a bit broken, or at the least inconsistent.

E.g. in the Preferences > Library panel, the fields for 'map base file paths in exported playlists' will use the 'Disabled' bdr irrespective if it's activated or not.

But in the Sorting/Grouping panel, the 'ignore words:' field will use the 'Default' bdr irrespective if it's activated or not.


Bump

Additionally, here in the same panel the presentation of inactive elements is inconsistent.

(http://i.imgur.com/4UB0nyu.png)


same here:

(http://i.imgur.com/zfdtn9a.png)
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on August 06, 2017, 06:37:13 PM
although this might sound trivial to change, i am not going to at this point for v3.1 as it risks messing things up
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on August 06, 2017, 06:41:10 PM
I understand. Would you like a reminder in a while after 3.1 has settled, or did you already jot this down somewhere?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on August 06, 2017, 07:42:58 PM
please remind me if i forget
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on August 06, 2017, 08:36:58 PM
Would this be a bad moment to suggest for the installer to include the option to either do a 'full' install, or create a portable installation?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on August 06, 2017, 08:51:37 PM
Would this be a bad moment to suggest for the installer to include the option to either do a 'full' install, or create a portable installation?
thanks for reminding me. Its in the lastest version topic but not possible on the downloads page
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: hiccup on August 06, 2017, 08:57:17 PM
Would this be a bad moment to suggest for the installer to include the option to either do a 'full' install, or create a portable installation?
thanks for reminding me. Its in the lastest version topic but not possible on the downloads page

Not sure we're on the same page here.
I meant that there is only one installer, which after executing it, presents the option to continue installation either as a full install, or create a portable install.
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Sofocl on August 06, 2017, 11:59:12 PM
I meant that there is only one installer, which after executing it, presents the option to continue installation either as a full install, or create a portable install.
+1
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: redwing on August 07, 2017, 03:45:34 AM
Then show left navigator with all nodes expanded so that drives and folders will be visible.
yes i agree with that

I just tried v3.1 RC1 and found left sidebar still auto-hidden. Did you change your mind again?
Title: Re: Changes for version 3.1
Post by: Steven on August 07, 2017, 06:33:43 AM
i only changed it so the computer node is now expanded by default. I dont plan to make the left navigator open by default