Meridian MQA

[Markpd]

As an owner of  a Devialet 400 and more recently the Mytek Brooklyn DAC (connected to a pre/power class AB amp) I think I can add something to the conversation. I have downloaded and listened to some MQA files recently. Firstly they are about 700MB so it takes about 15 mins to download on my slow 8Mbps internet connection. Compare that to about 25 mins for a 24/192 or 40min for a 64DSD.

Now to the sound: The first time I played an MQA file I expected it to sound no better than a 24/192 PCM file. But to my surprise it sounded more like a DSD file. Lots and lots of detail, holographic soundstage, air between the instruments, and absolutely no fatigue. It was like listening to a record on my Rega RP8. I believe this is a very significant step forward in PCM technology, and I can finally listen to streaming Hi-Rez music without any sense of fatigue. Is it better than DSD? No. But is it better than 24/96? Absolutely yes. We can debate about 24/192. Since I started listening to DSD music I understood why people were comparing it to an analogue sound. Music should be detailed but at the same time relaxing and that is what MQA sounds like.

I believe Devialet has the capability to add a software MQA decoder inside the expert/phantom range with a firmware update. Since they have a close relationship with Tidal this capability might not be far off. But I am a believer in MQA because I have had a chance to listen. I think if you are a music lover you owe it to yourself to audition MQA, you shall be pleasantly surprised.

I have a D440 and my experience matches yours. Tidal software decoded MQA sounds wonderful, natural, clear and organic, similar to, but better than an LP on my venerable LINN LP12 Ittok. 

Some people say they cannot hear any difference on their systems even compared to 16/44 CD, which mystifies me, since the differences are so marked - perhaps people have configuration issues with Tidal ( Tidal do not explain the set up very well) or maybe people hate the concept of MQA and fear a "DRM" bogeyman so much that they don't give MQA a fair hearing.

I am perfectly  happy to pay for music that gives me listening pleasure and am ready to pay for an innovation that improves that music. As of now, MQA's improvements are actually free to me whereas DSD costs €25 per album ( if available at all).