scottcriswell
Head-Fier
- Joined
- Sep 30, 2015
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I'm currently working on the mp3 artifacts, taking a break for dinner. . Using a Schiit Uber ModiMagni combo and HD 700s
Finally got through it by switching back and forth really fast and listening for which track had a louder high hat.
The bitrate test is especially useful for those that debate what size files they should be storing/playing. I'll stick with high def.
I don't think so, as we have no idea what encoder or settings were used and the highest bitrate tested is only 160 kbps or lower.
With the latest iTunes AAC or Lame MP3 encoder using higher bit rates, the differences become exceptionally challenging to hear. If anything, the bitrate test should cause many people to reconsider using one of the various subscription streaming services and save any purchases for the occasional gems that are discovered.
If we can pick out differences in tracks we don't know, what about tracks we know extremely well?
I think we overestimate our long-term audio memory. More useful in a test would be general experience in hearing the artifacts that lossy codecs produce.
I found that trying to "listen" for specific artifacts was difficult. Especially on my low fi setup. But when I just listened to the music and stopped trying to focus on differences, it became obvious. So practice in hearing artifacts may be helpful but I'm not sure its necessary.
I got mine in Feb this year, but just came across this thread and glad to know that I'm not alone in getting stuck with the frequency band test.
I came across the test while attending the 2015 Philips Fidelio Media Launch.