Have you ever encountered the issue where your audio file is playing multiple times? This technical guide will help you to efficiently understand the concept of audio playback and learn how to play an audio file without any duplication.
Benefits of Playing Audio File Twice
There are several scenarios where playing audio file twice is beneficial. This technique is mainly used for more accurate sound synchronization which can be used in audio-visual effects to create an impression of stationary location, this is also beneficial for EQ and compression on duplicate sound sources and can be used to reduce background reverberations.
Reasons to Play Audio File Once
When playing an audio file twice, there is a noticeable delay between the two instances, resulting in a “hazy” or “washed-out” sound. Audio files played twice can also create an undesirable delay between the playback and the listener, as sound heard may be literally twice as far away as originally intended.
Playing Audio File Once with JavaScript
Using the tools in JavasScript, we can play an audio file once without suffering any negative impacts from double playing. To play an audio file once using JavaScript, you can incorporate the following code into your HTML code (or the language you’re using for your audio):
// Uses HTML5 Audio
let audio = new Audio('audio_file.mp3');
audio.play();
The above code should play your audio file once without issue. If it does not, then consider using the following trick to ensure that your audio file only plays once:
// Uses HTML5 Audio
let audio = new Audio('audio_file.mp3');
let played = false;
audio.addEventListener('play', () => {
if(!played) {
audio.play();
played = true;
}
});
The example code above is an event listener which will detect if the audio has already been played, and if that is the case, it will not play the audio a second time.
FAQ
What Are the Benefits of Playing Audio Files?
Playing audio files offers a variety of benefits, including providing more accurate sound synchronization, creating impressions of stationary locations, improving EQ and compression on duplicate sound sources, and reducing background reverberations.
Can I Play an Audio File Twice Safely?
No, playing an audio file twice can result in an uneven sound, as well as an undesirable delay between the playback and the listener.
Is There a Way to Play an Audio File Once with JavaScript?
Yes, you can play an audio file once without issue in JavaScript by using the following code in HTML:
let audio = new Audio('audio_file.mp3');
audio.play();
Can I Ensure that My Audio File Only Plays Once?
Yes, to ensure your audio file only plays once, consider incorporating the following code into your HTML:
let audio = new Audio('audio_file.mp3');
let played = false;
audio.addEventListener('play', () => {
if(!played) {
audio.play();
played = true;
}
});