Qobuz continues to tempt audiophiles by offering DSD files for download

Qobuz lifestyle photo with Focal headphones
(Image credit: Qobuz)

French music streaming platform Qobuz is continuing its quest to attract hi-res music lovers everywhere with the introduction of Direct Stream Digital (DSD) and Digital eXtreme Definition (DXD) file formats to its hi-res download store. Qobuz is making a big push in the mainstream streaming market this year, earning a fresh five-star review from us thanks to its strong hi-res catalogue of tunes, before turning its gaze on younger listeners with the launch of its heavily discounted student tier earlier this month.

That push has continued via the launch of DSD and DXD formats to the platform's download store. Listeners can now access more than 22,500 tracks available in either format. Some big names have already been added, with records including John Coltrane's Blue Train, Michael Jackson's Thriller, The Rolling Stones' Let It Bleed and The Beach Boys USA ready to enjoy in DSD and/or DXD files.

DSD is essentially a hi-res audio format (at a sampling rate broadly the same as 24-bit/88.2kHz PCM) that initially acted as a different, more efficient way of storing and archiving music data than traditional formats using single-bit information. DSD is also often claimed to be around 120dB in the audible frequency range – for context, CD measures around 96dB and 24-bit/192kHz recordings have a theoretical maximum of roughly 144dB, so the audible frequency range is usually higher.

Screenshot of Qobuz desktop homepage

Qobuz's hi-res streaming library is undeniably impressive. (Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)

DXD, meanwhile, is simply PMC at a sampling rate of 24-bit/352.8kHz or 32-bit/252.8kHz. From what we can tell, Qobuz has put far more of its new files into the DSD format than it has into DXD, though.

Qobuz isn't the only place you can seek out DSD files to download. HD Tracks still has a collection of tunes in DSD and double DSD, as does 7digital and Native DSD, though prices vary from track to track and platform to platform.

Qobuz has transformed into an impressive streaming platform, and while we were a little lukewarm about it a few years ago, major updates to its features list, user interface and hi-res catalogue have transformed it into a major contender for audiophiles who enjoy streaming in their hi-fi system.

MORE:

Read our recently updated five-star Qobuz review

What is DSD audio? How the format works, where to download files, and more

Check out the best music streaming services

Where can you buy hi-res music? Here are the top download sites

Harry McKerrell
Senior staff writer

Harry McKerrell is a senior staff writer at What Hi-Fi?. During his time at the publication, he has written countless news stories alongside features, advice and reviews of products ranging from floorstanding speakers and music streamers to over-ear headphones, wireless earbuds and portable DACs. He has covered launches from hi-fi and consumer tech brands, and major industry events including IFA, High End Munich and, of course, the Bristol Hi-Fi Show. When not at work he can be found playing hockey, practising the piano or trying to pet strangers' dogs.

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  • Jasonovich
    That's welcoming news from Qobuz. Most of my music collection is formatted in DSD, so I hope the TIDAL will turn with this announcement :ROFLMAO:
    Reply
  • Richard van Enteren
    How can you find all the albums that are in DSD?
    Reply
  • Jasonovich
    Richard van Enteren said:
    How can you find all the albums that are in DSD?
    NativeDSD :)

    Go to

    https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/#3c4c/fullscreen/product/m=and&p=3&q=pure+dsd
    Reply
  • Richard van Enteren
    Jasonovich said:
    NativeDSD :)

    Go to

    https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/#3c4c/fullscreen/product/m=and&p=3&q=pure+dsd
    Thanx a lot!👍
    Reply