Tidal’s web and mobile apps can’t currently stream MQA tracks.) Tidal also offers FLAC-encoded versions of MQA-encoded albums, which made it easier for me to conduct A/B listening tests. (You need to subscribe to the HiFi service level at $19.99 per month and use Tidal’s desktop app to listen to MQA streams. I listened to various high-resolution audio tracks (24-bit/48kHz and 24-bit/96kHz FLAC files) as well as numerous tracks encoded with MQA, both downloaded and streamed from Tidal.
#MERIDIAN EXPLORER DAC REVIEW WINDOWS 10#
I tested the DAC with a desktop PC running Windows 10 as well as an iMac. I listened to the Explorer2 with a wide variety of headphones, including Blue Microphones’ Mo-Fi, Bowers & Wilkins P5, and Ultrasone ProLine 750 headphones, as well as a pair of custom-fit JH Audio JH13 Pro in-ear monitors. The Explorer2 has no volume control of its own, so you’ll need to use your computer (or an app running on your computer, or an outboard amp) to do that.
#MERIDIAN EXPLORER DAC REVIEW INSTALL#
Windows users will need to install a driver. The Explorer2 plugs into your computer’s USB port using the provided, but somewhat archaic, USB mini (not micro) cable. You’ll need hardware that’s capable of decoding MQA to benefit from it, though, and the Explorer2 is one of the least-expensive devices available ( Amazon is selling it for $199).
What’s even better is that the MQA files come in small packages that are easy to stream. And the artist can attest to that because MQA files include a digital fingerprint that indicates the artist, recording engineer, or producer has verified that what you’re hearing was sourced from the studio master. Developed by Meridian Audio, a company with a long track record developing high-resolution audio technology, MQA makes it possible for consumers to hear music that’s not only better than CD quality, but the same quality that the artist heard when they recorded it in the studio. Meridian’s Explorer2 portable digital-to-audio converter can play virtually any type of high-resolution audio file, but its most compelling feature is its ability to decode MQA files.įor me, MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) was the best thing to come out of CES 2015.
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