Amazon music vs Qobuz

I use Amazon HD via a Node 2i with a wired network connection.  I recently got an outboard DAC which I think improved the quality.  I've tried Qobuz several times when they had deals.  The sound quality on both is excellent especially with well mastered hi-res recordings.  

Now, I don't obsess over the sound quality because most of the time I use streaming is for background music and when I'm checking out new stuff.  Most of my real listening is done on vinyl.

But, Qobuz drops out several times a day when I used it, only for a couple of seconds, but it's really annoying.  In the 3+ years I've been using Amazon Unlimited,  I've maybe had 2 dropouts in that entire time.  That, and the lower cost of Amazon for me (we have Prime), and there hasn't been a real reason to switch.

I'll probably try Qobuz again, they have a month free deal going on now.  Maybe they've improved the service since last time I tried it.

@tgilb Steve Stone did a comparison of several streaming services I think on The Absolute Sound a couple years ago and found Amazon to be sub par compared to Qobuz and others.  I prefer the AMZN interface, but as sound quality is my priority I stick with Qobuz.  I’d suggest doing a free trial and see what you think. Lots of hi-res stuff along with CD-quality content. 

@soix

Thanks for referencing the AS review. I’ll check it out and have thought about giving Qobuz a try with their free trial as you stated to see if I can even notice the difference in SQ. Not sure if my ears are that refined.

With that said I have never really thought the quality on Amazon was lacking and have a number of times compared its sound to CD’s and LP’s. Also, when I have the time to sit down for a serious listening session I usually prefer to listen to LP’s that I do find to sound superior. 

Today I spent some time comparing AMHD and Quboz. Initially, Quboz sounded better but that's because it's significantly louder. Equalizing loudness on my db meter, Amazon is more transparent. Listening to reverb tails, cymbal and bell ring out, and bass solos, Amazon was more clear and focused.

Just another opinion to throw in the ring.

@mashif I concur with your observation comparing the two. I own the Eversolo A8 and AMHD sounds better than Qobuz to my ears. A lot has gone on in the background at Amazon Music since this discussion was created 2 years ago the improvements will shock many. It is the best streaming service availible if you are not a big classical music fan which I am not. I added a Qobuz when I purchased the A8 to have the "best of the best" when streaming...nope lowly Amazon Music beats the pants off Qobuz in all catagories except one I don't care about.