Native High-Resolution versus Red Book Standard Audio: A Perceptual Discrimination Survey

Mark (Dr. AIX) Waldrep's abstract for a paper he's submitted to the Audio Engineering Society. I've listened to the files and could not hear a difference.

"The perceptibility of high-resolution versus CD standard audio has been the subject of research and debate since the introduction of hi-res audio distribution formats almost twenty years ago. The author conducted a large scale survey to determine whether experienced listeners could differentiate between a diverse set of twenty native high-resolution PCM stereo recordings and downconversions of the same masters at CD spec, 44.1 kHz/16-bits fidelity – Red Book Audio.

"Participants were encouraged to audition the files using their own systems, which ranged from modest, headphone-based personal setups to audiophile quality rooms costing in excess of $50,000 to professional studio environments. They were not allowed to use analytical tools or other non-listening means to assist in their observations. Over 450 responses were received from professional audio engineers, experienced audiophiles, casual music enthusiasts, and novices aged eleven to eighty years.

"The online survey submissions show that high-resolution audio was undetectable by a substantial majority of the respondents regardless of experience level, equipment cost, or process with almost 25% choosing “No Choice.” However, some evidence suggests specific genres and recordings produced marginally higher positives."