- MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC: all the audio file formats explained
WAV and AIFF are arguably the most popular uncompressed audio file formats, both based on PCM (Pulse Code Modulation), which is widely recognised as the most straightforward audio storage mechanism in the digital domain Both WAV and AIFF files use similar technology, but store data in slightly different ways
- What is DSD audio? A niche digital music format for audiophiles . . .
With PCM, the original analogue music waveform is described in two parts The first is its amplitude (size) In CD this is represented by 16-bits of digital data, which gives us the ability to define 65,536 different signal levels The original music waveform has to be measured at regular intervals in order for it to be represented properly
- What is a DAC? And why do you need one anyway?
DSD, or Direct Stream Digital, is an alternative to PCM and was originally conceived for Super Audio CD (SACDs) – a format championed by Sony and Philips in the late 1990s and into the noughties
- This budget desktop DAC offers as many features and . . . - What Hi-Fi?
The DX5 II's DAC stage is built around twin ESS Technology ES9039Q2M DAC chips, employing the latest Hyperstream IV architecture to deliver what Topping claims is "ultra-low-noise and exceptional dynamic range" Each chip works independently across distinct signal channels, lowering noise and improving channel separation and dynamics, while being capable of handling PCM files up to 32-bit
- Porsche is bringing Dolby Atmos audio to its in-car hi-fis, but there’s . . .
The German automotive giant is completely revising its PCM system (Porsche Communication Management) as part of its model year change And, as part of the update, it’s introducing support for Dolby Atmos audio The rollout does come with a couple of caveats, though It will only be available on 911, Taycan, Panamera and Cayenne
- Best budget soundbars 2025: cheap bars, tested by our experts
In PCM, you will hear the audio only in stereo, but sending bitstream means your soundbar will be able to receive those lovely Dolby formats, including Atmos What are the best equaliser setting for a soundbar?
- Best active speakers 2025: our experts pick the top pairs with . . .
Optical and HDMI ARC can both carry stereo PCM (uncompressed) and Dolby DTS 5 1 (compressed), though HDMI e ARC has greater bandwidth and can therefore transmit the next-gen Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats This distinction shouldn't make much difference to how you listen to TV via your stereo active speakers, mind you
- MQAs latest audio technology aims to reduce timing issues and put the . . .
MQA Labs and Lenbrook have further divulged what Qrono is and how it will be implemented moving forward, announcing two technologies within the line 'Qrono dsd' promises to "set a new standard in DSD-to-PCM converters", whereas 'Qrono d2a' has been designed to "get the best audio performance out of every DAC" According to MQA and Lenbrook, Qrono dsd grants performance enhancement which
|