Is FLAC really "better" than high-bit rate MP3?

[PJay]

I do a lot of headphone listening and, you're right, 128 kbps mp3s are unlistenable for me. I honestly can't tell the difference between 320 kpbs and FLAC, though.

[PJay]

I can never hear the difference between a good 320kbp MP3 and an avg FLAC

Neither can I. But, given a choice between the two. I'll choose a FLAC download, even though I know there's no noticeable difference.

[sindri1980]

I think you need to have some decent gear to really appreciate the difference.

[Tel-Bot]

I generally find that bit rates are dependent on the method of playback. If you're using a basic non hifi setup, then 128k is fine for those without a discerning ear. But as a rule of thumb I use a flac or cda source & rip down to 320k mp3 as standard. It all depends on how picky you are and if you're a grade A audiophile then you're guaranteed to notice the difference. For background noise, 128k is fine.

It all depends on your set up. I'm an audiophile so CDA source / FLAC and mp3 at 320 is the bare minimum for me. Anything else, I really notice the drop in quality. My other half on the other hand could probably listen to 96k to without noticing. It's in the ear of the listener to coin a phrase.

[prossi109]

I was always listening at 256/320kbps stuff but after I bought the B&W P5 then FLAC is the only choice for me

[megabyteme]

I was always listening at 256/320kbps stuff but after I bought the B&W P5 then FLAC is the only choice for me

Congrats on your purchase. During better times, I purchased a pair of their speakers. Even now that things are much tighter, I still cannot bring myself to part with them.

[IdolEyes787]

I was always listening at 256/320kbps stuff but after I bought the B&W P5 then FLAC is the only choice for me

Congrats on your purchase. During better times, I purchased a pair of their speakers. Even now that things are much tighter, I still cannot bring myself to part with them.

I have mediocre earphones but I compensate by taking a lot of Quaaludes before listening to anything.

[kulysses]

yes it is, i never understood why if something is free and better than paid or restricted codec why not use it in devices. Android finally added native support

[b33f]

I do a lot of headphone listening and, you're right, 128 kbps mp3s are unlistenable for me. I honestly can't tell the difference between 320 kpbs and FLAC, though.

I would agree. My setup at home on my PC includes:

NFB11.321.jpg as my DAC and headphone amplifier to drive
71J3un9fMgL._SL1500_.jpg

But I can hear a drop in sound quality with any mp3 at 192k or less.

[dvir_grn]

FLAC is 2400 bit against 320bit of MP3