gsnd

gsnd [OPTIONS...]

--dump
    Dump the configuration settings of the GNOME Sound Daemon.

--monitor
    Monitor the GNOME Sound Daemon and print events.

--help
    Show help options.

--version
    Show version number.

The gsnd command is a utility within the GNOME desktop environment used to manage the GNOME Sound Daemon (GSD). GSD is a crucial part of GNOME, responsible for handling sound events, managing hardware volume settings, and routing audio streams. gsnd provides tools to interact with a running GSD instance, allowing users and scripts to control its behavior.

While gsnd isn't a command end-users will typically run directly, it is very useful in debugging audio issues. It facilitates examining and modifying GSD's settings which can be invaluable for troubleshooting problems with sound in GNOME.

The available options expose functionalities such as checking the GSD's status, enabling or disabling specific modules, and querying properties. These modules typically handle functions like setting the volume, playing sounds for system events, managing hardware devices, and interacting with external services.

Because the GSD's operation is essential for the proper functioning of audio in a GNOME environment, gsnd provides important diagnostic and management tools for developers and system administrators.

Debugging audio problems by monitoring GSD events and inspecting configuration. Automation scripts for configuring sound settings. Verifying GSD is running and behaving as expected.

PulseAudio command-line utilities (pactl, pacmd) offer broader sound control, but gsnd focuses on GSD-specific functions. dconf editor allows direct manipulation of GSD's configuration settings.

pactl(1), pulseaudio(1)