FAudio

FAudio is a developer-focused audio runtime for FNA projects that need XAudio-compatible components across multiple platforms. Its strongest case is that focused role, paired with a permissive license; projects outside FNA or unable to use SDL 3.2.0 or newer have a weaker reason to choose it.

Overview

FAudio reimplements DirectX audio runtime libraries, including XAudio2, X3DAudio, XAPO, and XACT3. It was written for FNA’s Audio and Media namespaces and is accessed through FAudio#, so its value is clearest to developers building in that ecosystem rather than to anyone seeking a general-purpose audio framework.

The project includes unit tests meant to check whether its XAudio2 behavior matches XAudio2. Because those tests are not built by default, teams that rely on them need to include them deliberately in their build process. FAudio depends on SDL 3.2.0 or newer and states that it never explicitly uses the C runtime.

Key features

• Several audio runtime APIs: Support for XAudio2, X3DAudio, XAPO, and XACT3 gives FNA projects access to multiple DirectX audio components through one implementation.
• Compatibility-oriented tests: The XAudio2 unit tests offer a way to check behavioral matching, but their exclusion from the default build makes that check an intentional workflow step.
• Permissive licensing: The zlib license permits use for any purpose, including commercial applications, subject to its conditions.
• Platform-specific build guidance: Unix-like systems use CMake, Windows builds use the visualc directory, Xbox GDK uses visualc-gdk, and Apple builds use Xcode. That gives developers distinct entry points for supported targets, though the appropriate build path depends on the platform.

Pricing

FAudio is free at no cost. The single plan covers the zlib-licensed software, permits commercial use, and requires SDL 3.2.0 or newer. There is no free trial because the software itself is free; no paid tier is needed to access the stated plan.

Platforms

FAudio supports Windows, GNU/Linux, macOS, and iOS/tvOS. Its build guidance also covers Xbox GDK and macOS universal binaries. Those options make it relevant to teams targeting a range of desktop and Apple platforms, while the SDL dependency remains a prerequisite across the project’s use.

Who it's for

FAudio is best suited to developers working on FNA who need an implementation of XAudio-compatible audio APIs and are comfortable with the relevant platform build tools. The license also makes it viable for commercial applications. It is a poor fit for projects unrelated to FNA or environments that cannot meet the SDL 3.2.0-or-newer requirement.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Multiple DirectX audio runtime components serve FNA’s audio and media namespaces through one implementation.
• Pro: The zlib license permits commercial use, giving developers flexibility to incorporate it into commercial projects.
• Pro: Build instructions address Unix-like, Windows, Xbox GDK, and Apple targets.
• Con: SDL 3.2.0 or newer is required, which rules it out for projects that cannot use that dependency.
• Con: The compatibility tests are not built by default, so teams must take an extra step to run them.
• Con: Its intended FNA integration limits its appeal as a general audio layer for unrelated software.

Alternatives

For other approaches to game compatibility, browse Game Compatibility Layers. Consider these options when their platform or stated requirements better match your project:

• cnc-ddraw is a free alternative for Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows; choose it when the game has a DirectDraw (Software) renderer.
• GameHub is free on Android, iOS, and macOS; it is a better fit for cloud gaming and streaming when a stable network is available.
• Bannerlator is a free Android option, but compatibility varies by GPU, Android version, and game, with no support commitment or guarantee on other devices.
• umu-launcher is a free, GPL-3.0-licensed Linux option.
• DXVK is a free Linux and Windows alternative when Vulkan is available; Linux/Wine use also needs a compatible Vulkan driver.
• PlayOnLinux is a free option for Linux and macOS, though not all games are supported and performance can sometimes decrease.
• TDF is a free Linux or self-hosted option for GNU/Linux on x86_64 with a GPU supporting Vulkan 1.3 or newer.
• vkd3d-proton is another free open-source option for Linux and Windows.

Verdict

Choose FAudio if you are building with FNA and need its XAudio-compatible audio runtime components across supported targets. Its focused integration, broad API coverage, and commercial-use zlib license make a clear case for that audience. Look elsewhere if your project is not built around FNA or cannot meet the SDL 3.2.0-or-newer dependency.