Are hi-res music player worth it?

What is Hi-Res Audio?

Hi-res audio refers to music files that have a higher sampling frequency and bit depth than conventional CD quality audio files (Digital Trends). While standards have changed over time, hi-res audio is generally defined as lossless audio files that have a sampling rate of 96kHz/24-bit or higher.

This allows hi-res audio files to capture more detail and resolution than standard CD quality files which are 16-bit/44.1kHz. The higher sampling rate means more “snapshots” are taken of the audio waveform per second, capturing finer detail and nuance. The increased bit depth means there are more possible values to represent the amplitude of each snapshot, resulting in better dynamic range and reduced noise and distortion.

Together, these improvements in sampling rate and bit depth allow hi-res audio to reproduce the full spectrum of sound in higher fidelity, delivering a more immersive and true-to-life listening experience for audiophiles.

Benefits of Hi-Res Audio

The main benefit of high-resolution audio files is superior sound quality compared to compressed formats like MP3 and AAC. Hi-res audio offers a more detailed and nuanced listening experience by capturing finer sonic details and subtleties.

Hi-res audio has an expanded dynamic range, meaning it can recreate quieter sounds and louder peaks more accurately. This wider range allows you to hear more spatial detail and texture in the recording. Compressed formats often have to compress the dynamic range, losing some fidelity in loud and soft passages.[1]

Many hi-res formats aim to capture everything recorded in the studio master. By avoiding lossy compression methods that discard data, hi-res files can closely replicate the quality of the original studio recording. This results in a more immersive and lifelike listening experience.

Do People Really Notice the Difference?

There have been various studies and surveys conducted to determine whether the average listener can hear a noticeable difference between standard audio quality and high-resolution audio.

According to a large meta-analysis from 2016, some people can successfully differentiate hi-res audio from standard quality audio at rates better than random chance. However, the differences are relatively small and dependent on factors like age, hearing ability, and audio playback equipment.

In general, younger listeners with good hearing sensitivity are more likely to detect differences in hi-res audio than older listeners. The playback equipment also matters significantly, as hi-res audio files preserve more detail that can only be reproduced on high-fidelity speaker systems or headphones.

According to a Berklee College of Music study, many listeners could not tell a significant difference when comparing high resolution music to standard resolution streaming. The study concluded that the ability to discern these differences diminished greatly on consumer equipment versus professional studio gear.

Overall, there is evidence that some perceptive listeners can distinguish hi-res audio from standard quality, but the differences may not be noticeable to most casual listeners on average real-world equipment. Discerning hi-res audio is highly dependent on hearing ability and audio playback gear.

Hi-Res Audio File Formats

There are several popular file formats capable of storing high-resolution audio. The most common ones are:

FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) – An open source lossless format that compresses audio without any loss in quality. Widely compatible.
WAV (Waveform Audio File Format) – An uncompressed lossless format. Very large file sizes but excellent quality.
ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec) – A lossless format developed by Apple. Compatible with Apple devices.

The key difference between hi-res audio formats is that they are either lossless or lossy. Lossless formats like FLAC and ALAC compress the audio while retaining 100% of the quality. Lossy formats like MP3 achieve smaller file sizes by removing some audio data, which slightly degrades quality.

Compatibility can be an issue with hi-res audio. FLAC has the widest device support. ALAC works best for Apple users. Not all devices can play uncompressed WAV files. Checking format compatibility is important before investing in hi-res audio files.[1]

Hi-Res Music Players

Dedicated hi-res music players are portable devices designed specifically for playing high-resolution audio files and delivering an exceptional listening experience. Unlike smartphones or iPods, hi-res players have features tailored for audiophiles, such as superior internal amplification, high-quality digital-to-analog converters (DACs), and support for lossless file formats like FLAC, ALAC, and DSD.

Key features of hi-res music players include:

Powerful internal amps that can properly drive audiophile headphones
High-resolution DACs capable of playing hi-res files up 32-bit/384 kHz

Abundant storage capacity – 256GB or more
Robust file format support including FLAC, ALAC, WAV, DSD
Solid metal construction

Intuitive touchscreen interfaces
WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
Long battery life – 10+ hours playback

Some of the most well-regarded hi-res audio players include:

Astell & Kern A&ultima SP1000M – Flagship model with dual ES9038PRO Sabre DACs (Source)
Sony NW-WM1Z – MUSES 02 op-amp, 256GB storage (Source)

FiiO M11 Plus LTD – Quad DAC design, swappable amp modules
Hiby R8 – Interchangeable amp card system
Shanling M8 – Gorgeous all-metal design with rollable volume wheel

With support for hi-res streaming services like Tidal and Qobuz, an ever-expanding catalog of high-resolution music, and continual technological improvements, dedicated hi-res players offer an unparalleled listening experience for audiophiles on the go.

Smartphone DACs

A DAC (digital-to-analog converter) is a device that converts the digital audio files stored on smartphones into analog signals that can be sent to headphones or speakers (https://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/if-iphone-7-ditches-the-audio-jack-these-three-dacs-will-keep-the-music-spinning-1321629). This analog conversion is necessary for producing audible sound. The built-in DACs in smartphones are often low quality, resulting in mediocre audio output.

One way to upgrade smartphone audio is by using an external DAC that connects to the phone’s charging port, such as USB-C or Lightning. These portable DACs bypass the smartphone’s internal DAC and offer higher-resolution audio capabilities. Popular options include the FiiO BTR5 2021, iFi Go Bar, and Helm Audio Bolt DAC (https://www.androidpolice.com/best-dacs-for-android/).

Another option is using a DAC dongle or adapter that plugs directly into the headphone jack. These adapters contain a high-quality DAC chip to convert the audio and are compact and portable. Top choices are the Google USB-C to 3.5mm adapter, Jsaux Type-C to 3.5mm adapter, and the Apple Lightning to 3.5mm adapter.

By using an external smartphone DAC, whether a dedicated device or simple adapter, users can unlock improved audio quality from their mobile devices for enhanced listening experiences.

Hi-Res Streaming Services

In recent years, several streaming platforms have started offering high-resolution audio streaming as an option for audiophiles seeking better than CD quality audio. Some key services that provide hi-res streaming include:

Tidal – Offers hi-res streaming up to 9216 kbps via its HiFi Plus tier which costs $19.99/month (https://www.pcmag.com/picks/here-are-the-best-places-to-stream-hi-res-audio-online).
Amazon Music Unlimited – Streams some songs in Ultra HD up to 24-bit/192 kHz quality in its $14.99/month tier (https://www.whathifi.com/best-buys/streaming/best-music-streaming-services).
Qobuz – Streams hi-res up to 24-bit/192 kHz with its Studio Premier plan costing $14.99/month (https://www.soundguys.com/best-streaming-services-17247/).

In addition to streaming, sites like HDtracks and ProStudioMasters allow users to purchase and download individual high-resolution albums and songs. This gives more flexibility compared to streaming-only services. However, downloading hi-res albums can be more expensive, often $15-30 per album, compared to lossy streaming plans which offer unlimited access to music catalogs for around $10/month.

Set up a Hi-Res System

Building a hi-res audio system requires carefully choosing each component and understanding how they work together. Here is a step-by-step guide to setting up your own hi-res listening experience at home:

First, you will need a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The DAC takes the digital audio files and converts them into an analog signal that can be amplified. Choose a DAC that supports hi-res formats like DSD, FLAC, WAV, and AIFF. Popular options include the Chord Mojo and Schiit Modi.

Next, select a headphone amplifier or stereo receiver. The amp takes the analog signal from the DAC and amplifies it to drive your headphones or speakers. Look for an amp with plenty of power and good tech specs. The iFi Zen CAN is a portable option, while receivers from Onkyo or Yamaha work for a full-size stereo setup.

Choose your headphones or speakers carefully, as they will have a big impact on sound quality. Great hi-res headphones include the HiFiMan HE400se and Sennheiser HD660s. For speakers, look for models with flat frequency response and good bass extension like the KEF LS50 Wireless II or KLIPSCH RP-600M.

Connect the source device like a computer or smartphone to the DAC using a digital input like USB, coaxial, or optical. Run an RCA or XLR cable from the DAC to the amp input. Finally, plug your transducers into the speaker outputs or headphone jack on the amp.

With quality components and proper setup, you’ll be able to experience all the resolution and detail from hi-res audio in your own listening room.

Is Hi-Res Worth the Investment?

Whether hi-res audio is worth the investment depends on a few factors. At its core, hi-res audio provides improved sound quality over compressed formats like MP3 and AAC. According to Descript, hi-res audio has “wider frequency ranges and bit depths” which can lead to “more detail, spatiality, and immersion” (source). However, the equipment required can get quite expensive.

For playback you need a hi-res capable digital audio player (DAP) or a smartphone with an external DAC and high quality headphones or speakers. Costs can range from a few hundred dollars for a basic setup to several thousands for high-end gear. Hi-res audio files also cost more – often $1-3 more per track according to Kevin Boone (source).

An alternative is streaming services like Tidal, Amazon Music HD, or Apple Music Lossless which offer extensive hi-res music libraries for around $10-20 per month. This avoids the upfront equipment costs, but you still need capable gear. For many listeners, lossless quality provides most of the benefits at a fraction of the cost and effort.

In the end, hi-res audio is likely only worthwhile for dedicated audiophiles willing to invest in premium gear. Casual listeners can get excellent sound quality from more affordable setups. The incremental benefits of hi-res may not justify the costs for most people.

The Future of Hi-Res Audio

The high-resolution audio market is projected to grow substantially in the coming years as more consumers adopt hi-res music services and hardware. According to Lossless Streaming – the future of high res audio, the global hi-res audio market is predicted to reach $12.54 billion by 2025. This growth will be driven by the proliferation of hi-res streaming services like Tidal, Amazon Music HD, and Qobuz.

New lossless audio technologies like MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) are also expected to push hi-res adoption. MQA allows for hi-res audio to be delivered in a compressed file size while still retaining the full integrity of the original studio master recording. This makes streaming and downloading hi-res music more convenient. As reported by High-Res Music Streaming and the Future of HiFi Audio, services using MQA like Tidal are seeing strong growth.

On the hardware side, we can expect continued improvements in headphone and speaker technology to take full advantage of hi-res audio. Digital-to-analog converters (DACs) will also progress to support high sample rate playback. Portable audiophile digital audio players like the FiiO M11 Plus Ltd will push hi-res audio quality in on-the-go scenarios.

However, even as technology progresses, hi-res audio remains a niche market. The costs of hardware and services are still relatively high compared to mainstream options. And the benefits of hi-res are still debated among average listeners. But for audiophiles seeking the highest quality, hi-res provides an increasingly accessible way to experience audio as the artist intended.