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deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Jul 2·5 min read
24-bit/192kHz music downloads and why they make no sense
TL;DR
There is a misconception that 24-bit/192kHz music downloads provide superior audio quality compared to standard formats. However, these high-resolution files do not solve existing audio quality issues and occupy significantly more storage space.
✦ Why It Matters
Engineers should prioritize practical audio quality improvements over high-resolution formats that offer no real benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Evaluate audio formats based on empirical evidence, not hype.
- Consider storage implications when choosing audio file formats.
- Focus on solving real audio quality issues in digital music.
- Engage in discussions about audio quality with a scientific mindset.
Full Summary
The discussion around 24-bit/192kHz (24/192) music downloads has gained traction, particularly with figures like Neil Young advocating for 'uncompromised studio quality.' Despite the enthusiasm, 24/192 files are found to have slightly inferior playback fidelity compared to the more common 16-bit/44.1kHz or 16-bit/48kHz formats.
Additionally, 24/192 files require six times the storage space, raising concerns about practicality. Conversations with scientifically minded individuals reveal a strong belief in the benefits of 24/192, yet these beliefs lack empirical support.
The findings suggest that focusing on 24/192 as a solution does not address the real problems in digital music distribution. Engineers and researchers should consider more effective methods to enhance audio quality rather than relying on high-resolution formats.