Tidal HiFi uses FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), while Tidal Master uses MQA (Master Quality Authenticated).
FLAC is a lossless audio format that preserves all of the original audio information in the music recording. MQA is a lossy audio format, but it is designed to provide a more accurate representation of the original audio recording than other lossy formats such as MP3 and AAC.
Tidal offers both HiFi and Master tiers, but they are two different products with different audio quality and features.
Tidal HiFi is a good choice for most listeners, as it offers excellent sound quality at a reasonable price. Tidal Master is a good choice for audiophiles who have high-end audio equipment and are looking for the best possible sound quality.
Here is a table that compares Tidal HiFi and Tidal Master:
| Feature | Tidal HiFi | Tidal Master |
|---|---|---|
| Audio quality | Lossless CD quality (16-bit/44.1kHz) | High-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz |
| Audio format | FLAC | MQA |
| Exclusive content | None | Yes |
| Price | $9.99/month | $19.99/month |
Which tier should you choose?
If you are unsure which tier is right for you, I recommend trying the free trial of Tidal HiFi. This will give you a chance to try out Tidal’s lossless audio streaming and see if you can hear the difference.
If you are happy with the sound quality of Tidal HiFi, then there is no need to upgrade to Tidal Master. However, if you are looking for the best possible sound quality and you are willing to pay a little more, then Tidal Master may be worth it for you.
Ultimately, the decision of which tier is right for you is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer.