[henry66]

pastor, as hirs says, anything over 256 is fine for 99% of your customers.

there have been several tests in well respected HIFI mags, and the results
were, to say the least, mixed. under 256VBR, almost all testers could clearly
hear the difference, but over, some could, some not, and even then, they
could hardly decide which was 'better'. in a few instances, they even voted a
256VBR over a FLAC recording.

a lot of people seem to listen with their brain, rather than their ears only.

if you can manage some filtering in the extended SEARCH field, would
suggest you just put in three selections: ALL, over 256, over 320.

but as hirs said: most people would look for an album and an artist, and if
they really want it, get it anyway, at any bit rate.

greets - henry -

[Gaucho]

As far as I'm concerned, I can easily distinguish 320kbps and these days I won't accept anything else.

Maybe if you listen to music through an iPod it doesn't matter. I play mine through a reasonable hi-fi system and the difference is quite obvious.

Before I joined this forum and learned about bitrates, I was downloading at all sorts of bitrates. Now I find I have to download my favourite stuff all over again at 320kbps because the lower quality sound irritates me.

And my hearing isn't anything special, believe me.

[henry66]

>> As far as I'm concerned, I can easily distinguish 320kbps

i was 100% sure i could too, for many years. and i too use excellent HIFI systems,
including the leftover of former radio studios and stations, at times.

the more i was baffled by those comparisons and tests in HIFI mags and on the
internet. not that they make me switch, but they make me think how much tricks
a mind can play.

greets - henry

[Nightfly]

Originally Posted by henry66

pastor, as hirs says, anything over 256 is fine for 99% of your customers.

there have been several tests in well respected HIFI mags, and the results
were, to say the least, mixed. under 256VBR, almost all testers could clearly
hear the difference, but over, some could, some not, and even then, they
could hardly decide which was 'better'. in a few instances, they even voted a
256VBR over a FLAC recording.

a lot of people seem to listen with their brain, rather than their ears only.

if you can manage some filtering in the extended SEARCH field, would
suggest you just put in three selections: ALL, over 256, over 320.

but as hirs said: most people would look for an album and an artist, and if
they really want it, get it anyway, at any bit rate.

greets - henry -

I also prefer 256vbr~320kps...But if its a album like The Killers new one
that will no time soon become a classic for me...lol.. though a very good album it really is disposable music for me.I like to try new music that's
my thing.I can't hear the difference between 256 and 320 otherwise
I would be lying to you and worst of all myself.

But the new Beatles releases are worthy of 320kps only!
They are musical royalty.

I notice some stuff is coming in 160vbr .This is unacceptable to me and will not purchase a inferior product.It is quicker to upload and download for the sites and its sources, but makes for a inferior product.

I know that the sites would like to get the highest rates for you,but sometimes it's just not available.I know from personal experience and
personal knowledge.

We are sometimes spoiled with our musical wealth BUT there is nothing
wrong with expecting more when you are willing to pay for your music...