Qobuz targets budding audiophiles with a heavily discounted student tier

Screenshot of Qobuz desktop homepage
(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)

French hi-res streaming platform Qobuz is hoping to tempt the younger generation to its shores with the launch of a discounted subscription tier aimed at students. Titled 'Studio Student', this new tier will be available for enrolled students between the ages of 18 and 25 years old, granting access to the complete Qobuz catalogue at a discounted rate of just $4.99/£4.99 a month. When compared with the standard $12.99/£12.99 for a standard Qobuz Studio subscription, that's quite the saving. 

It's hardly a compromised experience, either. Studio Student members gain access to an impressive catalogue of over 100 million tracks, with files ranging from FLAC 16-bit/44.1 kHz (CD quality) to 24-bit/192 kHz (high-resolution) options when using compatible sources and devices. Those lucky students even get access to curated editorial content which delves deep into backstories and minutiae of the artists and labels on offer.

Students also gain access to the in-built Qobuz Magazine, offering hand-picked music selections from the company's team of music experts, plus editorial content such as music news, human-made playlists, album reviews and artist interviews. That's not bad for $4.99/£4.99 per month.

Screenshots of Qobuz app

(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)

Cautious converts can enjoy a one-month free trial to see if Qobuz is right for them, with no obligation to stay once subscribed. Per Dan Mackta, Qobuz's North America and Northern Europe Managing Director: "We get tons of requests from students looking for a discounted offer, and we are finally able to offer one. Our best-in-class music streaming service appeals to dedicated music listeners of all ages, and the new Student Studio plan makes it even more accessible to a wider range of consumers". 

We've certainly had our minds changed over Qobuz. Thanks to updates to its features, user experience and catalogue over the years, we awarded the platform five stars in our recently updated review, dubbing it a stellar, great-sounding platform which "gives Tidal a run for its money when it comes to the best streaming service for audiophiles". Student plans for Spotify (£/$5.99), Tidal (£4.99/$5.49) and Apple Music (£/$5.99) exist already, so it's about time Qobuz joined the party.

If you're a student in the US, go to qobuz.com/storerouter/music/streaming/offers/student to take advantage of this generous offer. We have asked Qobuz if the student plan will be available in the UK and other territories and will update this article as soon as we find out.

Update: Qobuz has confirmed this student discount is available globally. In the UK, the student plan is £4.99/month and you can access the deal here: https://www.qobuz.com/gb-en/music/streaming/offers/student

MORE: 

Read our recently updated five-star Qobuz review 

And our Tidal review

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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.