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Music servers and other computer based digital audio technologies.

RE: Adversarial, really? RE: The procedure... RE: You would have to buy a CD(s), if I understand you correctly.

"MP3 compression at 320 kbps has a marginal benefit, even if it were audibly transparent. There is not a 4 to 1 reduction. It's much closer to a 2 to 1 reduction, considering that the original could have been compressed nearly 50% using lossless compression (e.g. FLAC)."

Actually, I'm achieving only about 30-40% most of the time with the highest FLAC compression. The only time I achieve 50% or more is either mono music or quieter classical music. Therefore, I'd say it's closer to 3:1 compression with 320kbps MP3.

"IMO, it's not worthwhile arguing about such a small benefit or even taking the time to conduct experiments. The time and effort spent on these would be better spent purchasing additional storage capacity. Or, better, doing additional research in lossless compression. There are some new algorithms that get to beyond 50% compression losslessly on most material. I forgot the name, but there is discussion on HA."

I'd love to hear about a consistent lossless > 50% compression system. Sounds like quite a breakthru if possible!

I don't think this is a "small benefit" because we started discussing this over MOG and online music streaming. If there is no difference between hi-bit MP3 and the CD, that's significant for many audiophiles who are considering this route with the peace of mind that they're really not missing out anything with such a service and have access to a million records (and no point others criticizing it including the audiophile press). Beyond the practical storage limits as "Old Listener" mentioned, I feel that all too often MP3 is being used as the scapegoat for the state of poor music sound quality these days. Witness Neil Young and his tirades, grandiose plans of "saving music" with his PONO service. I suspect high-bit MP3 is totally adequate.

Theoretically, if we stay with the argument that all that matters is how it sounds, then who cares if the music was MP3, FLAC, APE, WV, AAC, etc... (At least when it could to sound quality. Obviously the tangible benefits of an album cover is different from downloaded JPG album art.)

Finally, Tony, as much as I appreciate your messages and contributions here (obviously you are very knowledgeable and have good gear) you did say:

"Every time I try to listen to 320 kbps MP3 seriously, after a few seconds I can't tell the difference,
because I've switched off my system in disgust. :-)"

Aren't you curious to give it a spin and see if these feelings (presumably about sound quality) are warranted, even as an exercise in examining the limits of one's own perceptions?
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Archimago's Musings: A 'more objective' audiophile blog.


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