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MP3 vs Hi Res

I know I am kicking a hornets nest here but so be it. I think MP3 isn't always as bad as it is portrayed to be and I have definetly purchased some Hi Res music that was underwhelming to say the least.If the source material is poorly recorded there is only so much that can be done. It is really tough to shine a sneaker. The playback system also has a huge impact If you play a music file through a portable device it is expecting a lot for it to sound really good. It can be enjoyable which is fine but a good stereo can bring out details that you would never hear on a handheld unit.I downloaded an MP3 version of Michael Jackson's Thriller the other day.It was $2.99 on Amazon. Playing it back on my stereo I was surprised how good it sounded especially Billie Jean. For something more recent listen to the Absence by Melody Gardot.Excellent recording & wonderful music.I guess what I am driving at is if you aren't trying MP3 through your stereo based on heresay ,give it a listen,you might be surprised. It could save you a little money also because the Hi Res files aren't cheap.
128x128lwin

Showing 3 responses by audioengr

audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Depends entirely on the kbps rate of the MP3. If it is 256k or above, it will sond virtually identical to a .wav file except on the most resolving systems on the planet. There are actually several ways to encode an MP3 also, incljuding variable rate.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Kijanki - what headphones and headamp are you using?

I have a totally modded out Lyr with Siemens CCA grey-plate tubes and I can hear the difference in .wav and 160kbps MP3. I am using HE-400 headphones.

The separation I get is unlike any other headamp however. The MP3 sounds a bit congested.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
Kijanki - anyone that listens mosly to headphones owes it to themselves to use tube headamp. Nothing else like it. I am currently building the Bottlehead SEX amp and putting lots of great parts of my own in it. I expect it to crush the Lyr, although the modded Lyr is fantastic.

I've been to a few Head-Fi shows and listened to a lot of headphones. Only 2 challenged my ribbon speakers: HE-400 and and older Ultrasone.

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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