Blind Test: mp3 vs. 24bit

[Audiovana]

Hello Audiophilestyle Members~

PMA magazine is conducting a study to see if we can hear which is better between an mp3 and a 24/96 file in a side-by-side comparison. So far, the results are surprising. If we all participate, we’ll know the truth. It’s also a fun test. Please go to the page below to participate:

 

 

https://www.pmamedia.org/en/home/can-you-hear-the-difference

 

[beetlemania]

Not long after I switched to computer audio, I used the foobar comparator to see if I could not only distinguish red book from 24 bit but also sampling rates of 24 bit. I was able to reliably distinguish 24/44 from 16/44 but not so much 24/96 and 24/192 from 24/44. My system is notably more resolving now, maybe I should revisit this. 
 

Well, except I now use Roon ROCK, not foobar. So, cannot so easily do blind tests. And I would now much rather just enjoy my music than compare test files. And even less interested in comparing mp3. If you can’t hear the difference between mp3 and 24 bit, great! Think of all the money and storage space you’ll save. 

[Audiovana]

I agree, listening to music is the only thing that truly matters. But you can still participate in the test just for fun. It will be a true blind test because both mp3 and 24-96 files are packaged in the 24-96 format so you can't tell which one is which. 

[Rexp]

You might get more consistent results if you offer whole tracks, mp3 gets more boring the longer you listen to it.

[Audiovana]

Hi Rexp, That's a good point. We were afraid the download might take too long because all test files were in a 24 bit container and the file sizes were quite big. But you can email me to take the test in a more extensive manner (whole tracks, etc.).

 

[email protected]