Jukes

For powerful, efficient local playback of audio files you need to use a corresponding tool. Many such programs have managed to make a name for themselves throughout the years, but others like Jukes don’t need to be overlooked, providing a portable, cross-platform way of organizing, and listening to your favorite tunes.

You’re free to use the application on other computers as well, regardless of whether or not they’re running a Windows system. However, for this to be possible, the target PC needs to be equipped with Java Runtime Environment. What’s more, you can use the application, and carry it around on a thumb drive.

The main window can feel a little bulky, but this is mostly because all panels are enabled by default. The filter system, playlist editor, and jukes manager can all be hidden at the press of a button. Moreover, the overall layout can be customized either by selecting one of different skins, or taking the time to manually configure a preferred one.

File support isn’t abundant, but you do get to work with some popular audio stream types like MP3, OGG, FLAC, APE, and SPX. Configuring default album, and catalog folders makes the application automatically load, and display files as you add them. When adding files, you can take the time to properly write down all related ID3 tags in case they’re missing.

Search and filter options can be used to easily find files of interest. These take little configuration time, with fields for artist, album, genre, year, and bitrate. Playlist management can also be performed on existing files. Related options let you arrange items as you see fit, and even shuffle the entire list.

When you’re done setting up the database, or even during the creation process, the application can play songs for you, even from the tray area. Playback controls, however, need to be handled from the main window, or tray area, because of the lack of hotkey support.

Taking everything into consideration, we can say that Jukes is a reliable, cross-platform audio player, and manager. The visual design can feel a little rough, but the variety of customization options can tweak it accordingly. Catalogs, and playlists are easy to create, and manage, while the built-in player lets you enjoy songs as you organize them.