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Hi-rez downloads, any good?

I recently read an interview with David Chesky of HDtracks. He commented on complaints that some downloads were of poor quality by basically saying, that's what the artist wanted released. It was an artistic decision that he can't change and he can't tell the labels what to do. OK. But, he made the comment in regard to Nevermind by Nirvana. People had complained when they received the download that is was further compressed. I have the original CD and it has good dynamics as Cobain obviously wanted a loud/soft contrast in the recording. So, Cobains been dead for years. Obviously he didn't demand that his recording be further compressed. Chesky has a good reputation as an audiophile who cares about sound quality but this "excuse" doesn't seem to ring true. What's your opinion on hi-rez downloads adn their sound quality or lack thereof?
wildoats

Showing 1 response by charles1dad

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charles1dad
10,229 posts
 
Vhiner and Mlsstl,
Very well said and true!
If taken to its "full" potential the high Rez format can be all that is promised, the problem, it seldom is.Too much marketing hype that isn't backed up by the product. Well produced Redbook played on high quality digital equipment can sound simply excellent. Hi Rez will remain a relatively small niche if an effort isn't made to produce a consistently good recording standard and offer honest pricing. People will just take a pass and ignore it by and large. When this segment gets its act together I'll become more interested and spend the money. As for now, Redbook is just fine sounding , plentiful and cheap.
Charles,
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