H265/HEVC decoder playback method and performance

[vhelp]

If i am playing an quicksync encoded video, how do I know if the Intel hardware decoder is being utilized ?

I am asking because I am trying to determine quality differences between a software versus hardware decode for maximum playback performance and video analysis.

Also, for the purpose of reviewing and analyzing frames, I want to factor that into the equation when comparing frames from before and after, and from frames from a hardware decoder versus a software decoder. I believe the two help explain the true differences in terms of ascertaining quality of hevc encoded videos. It may be better to use the software decoder or vis-versa. If, after analyzing, it is determined that software provide better playback detail, then for obvious reasons, one would rather set their software player to software decode. This way, comparisons can be more accurate, and playback of videos enjoyed.

What I would like to know is:

1. what software app do I need to run to tell me this
2. what software app will allow me to switch between the two for playback perference: software or Intel's hardware based
3. and slightly off question: is there any avisynth preference between LSMASH versus FFMS2

Thank you in advanced!

[sneaker]

1. The decoding software should tell you this. LAV Video does, for example.
2. LAV Video
3. not really

But: there should be no quality difference between software and hardware decoding. (With few exceptions, e.g. DXVA2 native with madvr and certain drivers, because the process of grabbing the decoded frames isn't always perfect. DXVA2 copy-back is recommended over all other hardware decoding methods.)

[vhelp]

2. LAV Video <-- Thanks for that.

I just installed it. It does give you the option to make any last minute settings, but i'm not sure I need to.

If there are any suggestions on additional settings, please let me know, otherwise, I will close down those settings dialog's and assume that the defaults are at their best.

EDIT: I went with the default settings.