Seriously asking… Let’s say there’s just a normal CD release. Qobuz/Deezer, whatever… 16/44.1.

BUT, it isn’t possible to get it because of GEO restrictions or it’s just not available, period. What would you take in place of the perfect FLAC 16/44.1?

iTunes Lossy?

Qobuz 24/48 FLAC?

I have religiously avoided all upsampled stuff… but I cringe at the thought of having a lossy file mixed in with the FLACs!

I think I’ll keep both iTunes and the 24/48 for now… but wanted to hear what you guys do when you just have to do it. Thanks!

  • analog_fieldBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Did you not just answer your own question? If you’re concerned about replacing the ‘perfect FLAC’, I would assume you would download the 24-48 FLAC files.

    Also, unless you know the music was recorded at 16-44.1 I wouldn’t assume that the 24-48 is upsampled. A lot of music is recorded at higher bit rates and then put out at lower. So your 16-44.1 may actually be downsampled from the 24-48 or some higher rate. Not saying upsampling doesn’t happen, it’s just my thought on the matter.

  • HairyfrenchtoastBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Pick the one that sounds better to you. That may involve different mastering between the file options… I don’t get why people get so caught up in this numbers game, maybe it’s just good marketing?