"What file format does Tidal use?" As of now, Tidal primarily uses the Hi-Res FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) format for its highest 'Max' quality setting, which delivers 24-bit/192 kHz studio-quality audio. Also, there is a High setting for CD-quality sound, which uses standard FLAC. The last setting 'Low' uses the AAC codec. All these make a big difference from the MQA format Tidal previously used.
Today, in this article, we will review everything about Tidal music format deeply. Then you can choose the best quality to listen to Tidal music on your device.
Part 1. Current Tidal Audio Format
Now, there are only three Tidal quality settings for users to enjoy music. Once you choose the quality, the music will be delivered in the target technical music format. Now, let's check the Tidal streaming format and quality at the table below.
| Features | Max | High | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Format | Hi-Res FLAC | FLAC (CD-quality) | AAC |
| Technical Specs | Up to 24-bit/192 kHz | 16-bit/44.1 kHz | Up to 320 kbps |
| Best For | Audiophiles and listen with high-end wired headphones and a DAC | Listen on quality Bluetooth headphones or home systems | Data-saving; stream on a limited mobile data plan |
Tips: If you want to get a complete technical knowledge of Hi-Res FLAC in Tidal, see our in-depth guide: Tidal Hi-Res [Full Review]
Immersive Audio Format on Tidal: Dolby Atmos
Besides the standard Tidal file format, Tidal also uses special format like Dolby Atmos to create an immersive listening experience.
To learn more about this format, you can visit our post: Tidal Dolby Atmos.
Note: There is no 360 Reality Audio in Tidal now.
Part 2. Compare Tidal Hi-Res FLAC vs the Competition
Here we will compare Tidal Hi-Res FLAC to its competition, including Apple Music ALAC, Amazon Music FLAC, and Spotify HiFi.
Tidal Hi-Res FLAC vs Apple Music ALAC: Apple Music ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec) is fully lossless. It delivers up to 24-bit/192 kHz quality, which is quite the same as Tidal's. The big difference between them is that FLAC is open-source and widely compatible with other devices, while ALAC is available only to Apple devices.
View also: Tidal vs Apple Music
Tidal Hi-Res FLAC vs Amazon Music FLAC: Amazon Music Ultra HD uses FLAC for its high-resolution, delivering the quality identical to Tidal's Max quality.
View also: Tidal vs Amazon Music
Tidal Hi-Res FLAC vs Spotify Lossless: Spotify Lossless offers FLAC at 24-bit/44.1kHz for its highest quality, which is lower than Tidal's Hi-Res settings.
View also: Tidal vs Spotify
Part 3. FAQs about Tidal Music Format
Is Tidal Music Truly Lossless?
Yes. Both the Tidal High FLAC and Mac Hi-Res FLAC quality settings use lossless codecs.
Do I Need a Special DAC for Tidal Max?
It is highly recommended using an external DAC to get the playback at the highest resolutions like 96 kHz or 192 kHz.
View also: Best DAC for Tidal
How Much Data Does Streaming Tidal Max Use?
It will consume a large amount of data. For example, streaming for a single three-minute song can be over 150 MB, while streaming for an hour will use more than 2 GB of data. So, it is recommended to use WiFi to stream Tidal music in Max quality.
Does Tidal Still use MQA?
No, Tidal has replaced MQA with Hi-Res FLAC officially.
How Does Tidal's FLAC Compare to Qobuz?
The audio technology between Tidal and Qobuz is exactly the same. They both use FLAC format to deliver high-resolution streams up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
View also: Tidal vs Qobuz
How Can I Listen to Tidal Max Quality?
You need to choose the Max quality settings on the Tidal platform. Also, use wired headphones and an external DAC.
How Do I Know If I'm Listening to the Highest Quality on Tidal?
While playing a Tidal track, you can tap the quality indicator, says Max, at the Now Playing bar. Then you will see the exact file format and audio resolution of the track you are streaming from the pop-up window.
Part 4. Tips to Play Tidal Music Offline with High Quality
It is noted that streaming Tidal music in Max quality uses lots of data. If you want to save your mobile data, a dedicated tool is here to help you.
Tools like AudFree Tidal Music Converter are designed to be the perfect music solution for subscribers who want offline playback and more control over their playback experience on PC, Mac or other devices.
This software can quickly help convert playlists from Tidal web player into plain audio files like FLAC, WAV, MP3, AIFF, M4A, etc. You can freely enjoy songs with a pleasant experience anywhere at any time! Also, it can be done utilizing 37X speed and save full ID3 tags as well as the original audio quality. Besides, you can organize your Tidal format local files by album or artist.
After using this tool, you can listen to Tidal music with the best quality on any device without using the network connection and even the Tidal app/subscription.
Part 5. Conclusion
In summary, here is all about Tidal format. By adopting Hi-Res FLAC as the technology in its 'Max' quality setting, Tidal now delivers true and studio-quality sound in an open and transparent format. For the listener, the path to an audiophile-grade experience is straightforward: select 'Max', plug in a good pair of wired headphones, and use a DAC to unlock the full and bit-perfect detail in your favorite tracks. It's a simple formula for hearing music exactly as the artist intended. But it is recommended to use WiFi to stream Tidal Max quality music to save data.
Miley Swift
Staff Editor
