On July 24th, 2024, Tidal made some major changes to its platform, canceling both MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) and 360 Reality Audio by Sony. In their place, Tidal has introduced FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) in HiRes (High-Resolution) format as the highest-quality streaming option. This new shift represents a significant change in how Tidal delivers its premium music experience, offering both challenges and benefits to audiophiles.
In this post, we have compared the differences between MQA and HiRes FLAC, described the features of Tidal HiRes FLAC, and provided a detailed tutorial on how to download Tidal HiRes FLAC music tracks even without a subscription to assist you in understanding and adapting to the changes in sound quality on Tidal.
Part 1. What is Tidal HiRes FLAC Audio?
Tidal HiRes FLAC audio is the replacement for Tidal's MQA. HiRes FLAC is a lossless format that offers high-resolution audio without compressing the original file quality. Compared to traditional FLAC, Tidal's HiRes FLAC allows music streaming at resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz, preserving the original sound details as closely as possible.
On top of that, Tidal has also made price adjustments to make HiRes music accessible to more users. In 2024, Tidal combined its HiFi and HiFi Plus plans into a single subscription tier, now called TIDAL. The price for this plan has been reduced to $10.99 per month (Individual), making it more affordable than the previous tiers. This subscription provides access to Tidal's entire catalog, including HiRes FLAC and other high-fidelity formats.
Now, you know that Tidal has shifted the highest sound quality from MQA to HiRes FLAC, you may wonder: what's the difference between MQA and HiRes FLAC?
Put it simply, MQA was designed to deliver high-quality sound with smaller file sizes, using lossy compression. In contrast, HiRes FLAC is a truly lossless format, meaning there is no compression, and the files are typically larger but contain the full audio spectrum of the original recording. Below is a detailed comparison between Tidal HiRes FLAC and MQA:
| Features | Tidal MQA | Tidal HiRes FLAC |
| Audio Quality | Generally in 96 kHz / 24 bit, lossy compression | Up to 24-bit/192kHz, fully lossless |
| File Size | Smaller due to lossy compression |
Larger due to no compression |
| Playback Compatibility | Requires MQA-enabled hardware or software | Compatible with most players |
| Licensing | Proprietary | Open-source |
| Cost | Higher licensing costs | No additional costs |
| File Formats | MQA only | FLAC, WAV, ALAC, DSD |
| Authentication | Includes light "studio" authentication | No formal authentication, purely based on quality |
Generally speaking, MQA offers some convenience with smaller file sizes, the uncompressed nature of HiRes FLAC provides a more accurate and authentic listening experience, closer to what the artist intended. Additionally, HiRes FLAC is compatible with a broader range of devices and platforms, making it a more flexible option for most users. If you want to download Tidal playlist in HiRes FLAC format to your local forever, you can go to Part 4 to get the way.
However, which one is better or worse is a matter of opinion. If you prefer a wide range of compatibility with the high-quality audio, HiRes FLAC is a better choice. While, if you're inclined to stream high-resolution audio in a smaller file size, MQA is a perfect pick.
Read More: How to Improve Tidal Music Bitrate [Quick & Easy]
If you want advanced Tidal tracks' listening experience, enable Tidal Dolby Atmos must be a go-to choice. it delivers an immersive sound effect, making the sound around you to deeply addicted to the song's melody. For more tips to improve the output audio quality of Tidal, you can select a compatible DAC device and stream under a stable
Part 2. How to Get Tidal HiRes FLAC Music on Desktop/Mobile
To get Tidal HiRes FLAC audio on Tidal, you should make sure you have a TIDAL plan, whether it's an individual plan or a family plan, each plan has access to HiRes FLAC tracks on Tidal. If you're new to Tidal, you can start a 30-day free trial or a 60-day trial for 2 dollars.
Meanwhile, you should make sure you have a device that supports high-quality audio playback, such as a digital audio player or a smartphone with a high-quality DAC (digital-to-analog converter) to handle high-resolution audio files. Then with your TIDAL subscription, you're officially ready to go.
Enable the HiRes Audio Setting on Mobile:
When Using Mobile Data/Wi-Fi:
Step 1 Open the Tidal app to log in with a TIDAL account.
Step 2 Navigate to Settings > Audio & Playback > Mobile Date/Wi-Fi streaming.
Step 3 Choose the Max option, which could provide HiRes quality while streaming.
Step 4 Once the Max quality audio is enabled, it will take effect from the next playback.
Step 5 Go to the HiRes track or any track you want to stream in HiRes quality. You can also click the Now Playing bar at the bottom of your screen, and select the current sound quality to change it to Max.
Step 6 If the track is streamed in High when Max is enabled, the track is not supported by Max quality.
When Using Downloaded Content for Offline Playback:
Step 1 Open the Tidal app to log in with a TIDAL account.
Step 2 Navigate to Settings > Downloads > Audio.
Step 3 Choose the Max option for audio quality.
Step 4 The change will only apply to the next download. Thus, you need to delete and re-download previously saved tracks, albums, and playlist.
If you had downloaded MQA track or album for Tidal offline library, you need to update to the latest Tidal app version. And then you will receive a pop-up alert asking you to redownload those tracks in Tidal HiRes.
Enable the HiRes FLAC Audio Setting on Desktop:
Step 1 On your PC or Mac, launch the Tidal desktop to log in with a TIDAL account.
Step 2 Click the horizontal 3 dots, and choose Settings.
Step 3 Under 'General', select the 'Max' option, which now streams HiRes FLAC music.
Step 4 Go to the HiRes track or any track you want to check if it's supported by HiRes quality audio. You can also click the Now Playing bar at the bottom of your screen, click the current Streaming Quality, and select the Max option.
Step 5 Once the Max quality audio is enabled, it will take effect from the next playback.
Step 6 If the track you play doesn't support Max quality, the audio quality will be automatically switched to High (16-bit, 44.1 kHz).
Part 3. How to Find Tidal HiRes FLAC Music on Desktop/Mobile
As stated, TIDAL members can access HiRes FLAC music if you've set the audio quality to Max quality. However, not every song on Tidal supports HiRes quality which is greater than 16-bit, 44.1 kHz even if you choose the Max quality. The highest quality of a song depends on the source file sent by the artist, label, or distributor. Therefore, finding Tidal HiRes FLAC music is just as important as setting up your streaming preferences.
Search for HiRes Music on Desktop/Mobile:
Step 1 On your PC or mobile phone, open the Tidal app.
Step 2 Enter 'HiRes' in the Tidal search bar.
Step 3 You will see there's a genre for HiRes music, click on it.
Actually, nearly all MQA tracks are replaced with at least 16-bit, 44.1 kHz FLAC versions today. Once you set up the Max quality, you don't need to spend extra time to search for Tidal HiRes content.
Part 4. Best Way to Download Tidal HiRes FLAC Music [without Subscription]
While the HiRes tracks are readily available for online streaming and offline listening with a TIDAL subscription, there's a caveat to consider: the inaccessibility of the HiRes tracks on mobile devices as they are encrypted in digital rights management. Meaning that you cannot transfer them to other devices for sharing.
If you want to listen to these HiRes quality Tidal tracks on multiple devices without a TIDAL subscription, you can consider using ViWizard Tidal Music Converter. To save time and effort, ViWizard Tidal Music Converter emerges as an even more optimal solution, especially for those who are using computers. This tool offers a convenient way to convert and download HiRes tracks off Tidal for personal use while preserving 100% lossless audio quality. With just a few clicks, you can save them in universal formats like MP3, M4A, M4B, WAV, AIFF, or FLAC, and transfer them using your preferred method, such as syncing with your smartphone or tablet.
Key Features of ViWizard Tidal Music Converter
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- Download full songs, albums, playlists, and artists from Tidal without ads offline
- Convert Tidal tracks in bulk at up to 35x faster speed
- Export Tidal music to MP3, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, M4A, and M4B
- Support various quality options up to a maximum of 24-bit, 192 kHz
[Video Tutorial] How to Download Tidal Track in HiRes FLAC
Part 5. FAQs about Tidal HiRes FLAC
What is the Difference Between HiRes FLAC and FLAC?
The main difference between HiRes FLAC and standard FLAC is the audio resolution. HiRes FLAC refers to files with a higher bit depth and sampling rate (up to 24-bit/192kHz), while standard FLAC is usually CD-quality (16-bit/44.1kHz). HiRes FLAC provides more audio detail, offering a richer and more immersive listening experience.
What Devices Support Tidal HiRes FLAC Audio?
Tidal HiRes FLAC is compatible with most modern devices, including smartphones, computers, and the Web. To determine if your device supports Tidal HiRes FLAC, you need to check if the digital-to-analog converter (DAC) in your listening device is compatible with the format (lossless 24-bit, 192 kHz) and ensure you're using either a wired or WiFi connection.
Do other music streaming services support HiRes FLAC？
Tidal isn't the only one who supports HiRes FLAC audio format, Qobuz also offers both CD quality and HiRes quality to stream and download. Amazon Music also supports the FLAC format with up to 24-bit, 192 kHz without HiRes.
How much bandwidth does Tidal HiRes FLAC use?
If you wish to stream in Max quality, you'd better listen on a stable internet connection of at least 1.5 to 2Mbps. Please note that you may cost up to 40 MB of data per minute for Tidal HiRes FLAC format streaming.
How many kbps does Tidal Master quality have？
Normally, the removed Tidal MQA can go up to 1850 kbps, while Tidal HiRes FLAC can go up to 9216 kbps.
Why some Tidal tracks are still in MQA format when played on DAC device?
The tracks' format on Tidal also depends on the source of provider. If the artist provide he MQA format as the source file, then your DACs can only read and delivered tracks in MQA, too.
Part 6. Conclusion
Tidal's move from MQA to HiRes FLAC has brought some significant advantages, including better audio quality, wider compatibility, and reduced licensing costs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up, find, and download HiRes FLAC tracks to enjoy crystal-clear sound quality. If you want to listen to Tidal HiRes Flac anytime, anywhere, without restrictions, don't forget to download and use ViWizard Tidal Music Converter.
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Dave Henry, a multimedia technologist at ViWizard, focuses on delivering the best solutions for digital media challenges, including audio and video conversion, media optimization, and troubleshooting.
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