I downloaded some 16/44.1 versions of HD tracks and other 24/192 bit recordings that had been converted to redbook formats. What I find is that all these recordings "made to impress" are made in acoustically dead studio environment with close miking no ambiance or resonances or atmosphere from any venue. A TOTAL waste - only a fool and moron is impressed by such tailor made recordings. Thank goodness I didnt invest in a 24/192 dac yet and blow up my money on these HiRez tracks. I only hope the bulk of paid 24 bit HD tracks are not at all like these.
A common example is the B&W audiophile CD with Alan Taylor etc. These kind of recordings are made for people who listen to their gear not the music.
~G0bble
I remember reading a discussion (I think on Pink Fish Media) where it was mentioned that many of the HDTracks tracks have a low dynamic range factor. It seems that in some cases the 24/96 versions actually have a lesser dynamic range than the 16/44.1 CD versions! There was also a theory ("conspiracy" or not, I'm not sure) being mooted that HDTracks are purposely not publishing the dynamic range values of the downloads for this reason, even though there has been substantial pressure from customers.
So, perhaps the problem lies in the dynamic range of their downloads and not in the bit depth/resolution.
I can't find the link to that discussion, and I know very little about the technical aspects, so this is an idea I'm putting out hoping for more information.
Personally, I've found some of the HDTracks downloads to be particularly good, and some of them ordinary. Linn seems to be more consistent in quality.
I have a 24/96 HDtracks FLAC set of Charlie Haden's "The Private Collection" (a live recording in a club, going by the clinking of cutlery and the enthusiastic audience), and going by my experience with other HiRes tracks, this album is
outstanding in terms of depth, blackest of black backgrounds, recording,
everything. The first time I listened to it, I went wide-eyed and slack-jawed within seconds of starting to play it. The excellent music also helps, of course, and whenever I've started listening to this 2-CD sized album, I've not been able to stop playing it or change the tracks till I finish all of it. With it playing, I can spend time enjoying the music, and also enjoying the activity of listening/seeing my setup reproducing the music in a stellar manner, the second thing being a rare exercise for me.
) will really be able to tell whether it is hocus-pocus or not.
