Whether or not Tidal HiFi is really CD quality is a complex question with no easy answer. It depends on a number of factors, including the bitrate of the stream, the device you are using to listen, your own ears, and your definition of “CD quality.”
Bitrate
Tidal HiFi offers CD-quality audio streaming at 1411 kbps. This is the same bitrate as a CD, and it is a significant improvement over the audio quality offered by most other music streaming services.
However, some people argue that Tidal HiFi is not truly CD quality because it uses MQA technology. MQA is a lossless compression technology that allows Tidal to deliver high-resolution audio without using excessive bandwidth.
Device
The device you are using to listen to Tidal HiFi can also affect the sound quality. If you are using a low-quality device, such as a smartphone or laptop speaker, you may not be able to fully appreciate the benefits of Tidal HiFi.
For the best possible sound quality, you should use a high-quality device such as a dedicated DAC or amplifier.
Personal preference
Ultimately, whether or not Tidal HiFi sounds like CD quality is a matter of personal preference. Some people can hear a difference, while others cannot.
Some people argue that Tidal HiFi sounds better than CD quality, while others argue that it sounds worse. Some people believe that MQA technology improves the sound quality, while others believe that it degrades it.
Definition of “CD quality”
It is also important to consider your definition of “CD quality.” Some people believe that CD quality is simply the same bitrate as a CD (1411 kbps). Others believe that CD quality is also about the sound quality, which can be affected by a number of factors, including the mastering and production of the recording.
So, is Tidal HiFi really CD quality? It depends on your definition of “CD quality.” If you are looking for the same bitrate as a CD, then Tidal HiFi is CD quality. If you are looking for a specific sound quality, then it is difficult to say definitively whether or not Tidal HiFi is CD quality.
The best way to decide for yourself is to try Tidal HiFi and see how it sounds to you. Tidal offers a free trial, so you can listen to Tidal HiFi for free for 30 days.
