How to Use PipeWire for Audio Management in Linux

Tirsasaki
Tirsasaki
18 Februari 2025

PipeWire is an advanced audio and video server designed to replace PulseAudio and JACK in Linux systems. It offers low-latency performance, better handling of professional audio workflows, and seamless integration with various applications. In this guide, we will cover how to install, configure, and optimize PipeWire for audio management in Linux.

Why Use PipeWire?

  • Low Latency: Ideal for professional audio production.
  • Better Compatibility: Works with PulseAudio and JACK applications.
  • Efficient Resource Management: Optimized for modern Linux distributions.
  • Improved Bluetooth Audio Support: Supports high-quality codecs like AAC, aptX, and LDAC.
  • Future-Proofing: Aims to become the standard audio server for Linux.

Installing PipeWire on Linux

Most modern Linux distributions come with PipeWire pre-installed. However, if you need to install it manually, follow the steps below based on your distribution.

Fedora

Fedora uses PipeWire by default. If it is not installed, you can install it using:

sudo dnf install pipewire pipewire-pulseaudio pipewire-jack pipewire-alsa

Ubuntu/Debian

Ubuntu and Debian still use PulseAudio by default, but you can switch to PipeWire:

sudo apt install pipewire pipewire-audio-client-libraries

To replace PulseAudio with PipeWire:

echo "export PIPEWIRE_RUNTIME_DIR=/run/user/$(id -u)/pipewire" >> ~/.profile
systemctl --user disable --now pulseaudio.socket pulseaudio.service
systemctl --user enable --now pipewire pipewire-pulse

Arch Linux

Arch Linux provides official support for PipeWire. Install it using:

sudo pacman -S pipewire pipewire-pulse pipewire-alsa pipewire-jack

Enable PipeWire:

systemctl --user enable --now pipewire pipewire-pulse

Configuring PipeWire

Once installed, you may need to configure PipeWire to optimize its performance.

Checking PipeWire Status

Verify that PipeWire is running:

systemctl --user status pipewire

If PipeWire is not running, start it manually:

systemctl --user start pipewire

Managing Audio Devices

Use pw-cli to list available audio devices:

pw-cli list-objects

Alternatively, use pactl for a more familiar interface:

pactl list short sinks

Setting Default Audio Device

To set a default audio sink, run:

pactl set-default-sink <sink-name>

You can find the sink name using:

pactl list sinks short

Additional Tips

  • Use WirePlumber: WirePlumber is a session manager for PipeWire that provides better control over audio routing.
  • Tweak Buffer Sizes: Adjust buffer sizes for lower latency in pipewire.conf.
  • Monitor Audio Streams: Use pw-mon to debug audio streams in real-time.
  • Switch Between PulseAudio and PipeWire: If you need to revert back to PulseAudio, disable PipeWire and re-enable PulseAudio services.

Enable High-Quality Bluetooth Audio: Add the following to /etc/pipewire/media-session.d/bluez-monitor.conf:

properties = {
    "bluez5.enable-msbc" = true
    "bluez5.enable-hw-volume" = true
}

Conclusion

PipeWire is revolutionizing audio management in Linux, providing a robust and low-latency alternative to PulseAudio and JACK. Whether you're an audiophile, a professional musician, or just looking for better Bluetooth audio support, PipeWire is a great choice. By following this guide, you can install, configure, and optimize PipeWire to enhance your Linux audio experience.

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