Downloads from iTunes or Amazon?

Posted by: Amer on 27 December 2011

Hi, I am new to the computer audio world, and would welcome your opinions on the relative quality of the downloads of iTunes and Amazon, or any other download shop.  I want to know if the extra money iTunes charges means you get better quality.

I know the quality of the DAC will make a huge difference, but money is very limited right now so I want to ensure that the source is a good as possible at this stage to support any future upgrades in that area.  (System 102, HiCap, 250.2, Dynaudio Audience, MacPro).

Thanks

Best wishes Amer

Posted on: 27 December 2011 by Guido Fawkes

Neither is that good - you are better off buying and ripping CDs (even cheap s/h ones) - both iTunes and Amazon downloads are below CD quality. 

Posted on: 27 December 2011 by Julien.m

if you speak french, you can try Qobuz.

www.qobuz.com

 (I am not sure I'm allowed to promote such a website)

you will find lossless files (FLAC, ALAC...) and few master albums (24/96)

 

there are some websites like this one but I don't know them.

Posted on: 29 December 2011 by Amer

Thanks Guido and Julien, I have been following the route you suggested Guido, but I am someone who does like new singles and remixes as well, so getting cheap CDs to satisfy this particular hunger is not so easy.  While I don't speak french, I have close friends who do so will try Qobuz.  Best wishes 

Amer