Linux

Fix missing gstreamer codec error for »meta/x-gst-fourcc-rtmd«

Recently I came across this gstreamer error, claiming missing a codec under the handle »meta/x-gst-fourcc-rtmd«. I have not looked into the codec further, as I believe this is already a recognized bug and will probably be taken care of at some point in the far future. Also, this dirty fix did it for me.

Change settings in VLC to get rid of »meta/x-gst-fourcc-rtmd« error

But in case you want to quick and dirty »fix« this right now, here is how to do it in VLC Player:

  1. Go to Tools → Preferences → Video
  2. Set Output to X11 video output (XCB)

Also:

  1. Go to Tools → Preferences → Input/Codecs
  2. Select Hardware-accelerated decoding: Disabled

After making these changes I was able to play my videos nicely. I had this issue with mp4 files from my Sony Alpha 6600 camera. Hope this helps!

meta/x-gst-fourcc-rtmd decoder
Gstreamer error: “Additional software is required. Parole needs meta/x-gst-fourcc-rtmd decoder to play this file. It can be installed automatically.” (which doesn’t work, but…)

No option for Parole, but let me know if you find the real solution!

I didn’t even notice that this produced a codec error, since VLC just crashed when I tried to play an MP3 file. I found out by coincidence from this error in parole. However, in parole, setting the standard output to X11 didn’t do anything for me, so for now I removed parole from Debian altogether, since it’s a crappy player anyway and I never use it. But if you come across a better (real!) solution, please let me know. I’d love to get this fixed properly, I simply don’t have the time to go down some library rabbit hole right now.

Hi, my name is Undine, I am a physicist and programmer from Munich, Germany. This is my blog about minimalism, travel and Linux. I like zero waste, trying to be as ecoconscious as possible in my everyday life etc. I find no joy in niching down my interests, and there will always be a mix of all sorts of topics on this page.

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4 Comments

  • Reply
    Agnus Dei
    April 26, 2024 at 10:16 am

    thank you my frend

  • Reply
    Matty
    October 20, 2024 at 1:24 pm

    Have you considered Debian Mint – LMDE? It deals with a lot of the codecs from the install and Cinnamon isn’t a terrible desktop.

    • Reply
      Undine Almani
      October 27, 2024 at 2:14 am

      I have, but not for this particular issue. Funny enough it hasn’t occurred in ages now. I am using ADB to transfer my files now and I don’t copy anything large anymore. But still, gstreamer should be up to date on any system.

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