Spotify has started offering its long-awaited Lossless (lossless audio) feature to Premium subscribers. This innovation is a significant development, especially for music enthusiasts who value high sound quality. So, what exactly does Lossless mean, how is it enabled, what devices support it, and how does it compare to its competitors? Here are the details.
What is Lossless?
Lossless, or lossless audio, ensures that music reaches the listener exactly as it came out of the studio, preserving its original quality. Spotify offers this feature in FLAC format at 24-bit / 44.1 kHz resolution. This means it delivers greater bit depth than CD quality. Users can thus experience a broader dynamic range and a more natural, richer sound.
How to Enable Spotify Lossless?
Activating the Lossless feature on Spotify is quite simple:
- Open the Spotify app.
- Tap on your profile icon and go to the “Settings and privacy” section.
- Select the “Media quality” tab.
- Set the settings to Lossless.
- On the playback screen or in the Spotify Connect menu, you’ll see the “Lossless” indicator.
The Lossless feature must be enabled individually on each device, and due to larger file sizes, the first downloads may take a bit longer.
Which Devices Support Spotify Lossless?
Spotify Lossless can be used both on mobile devices and desktop applications. Additionally, thanks to Spotify Connect, it supports many compatible speakers and sound systems.
- Best experience tip: It’s recommended to use wired headphones or an external DAC for the highest quality.
- Listening via Bluetooth: Most devices have limited bandwidth, so true lossless audio may not be transmitted accurately over Bluetooth.
- Spotify Connect devices: Brands like Sony, Bose, Samsung, and Sennheiser are supported. Sonos and Amazon devices will be gradually updated.
Comparison with Competitors
Comparing Spotify Lossless with its competitors helps users make more informed decisions:
- Tidal: Supports HiRes FLAC up to 24-bit/192 kHz, plan-dependent.
- Amazon Music: Offers Ultra HD content between 24-bit, 44.1–192 kHz.
- Apple Music: Offers 24-bit/48 kHz Lossless and 24-bit/192 kHz Hi-Res Lossless without extra fees.
- Spotify: Supports 24-bit/44.1 kHz FLAC. Its main advantage is that it’s included in the Premium plan at no extra cost.
Storage, Data Usage, and Practical Tips
- Downloads: More device storage is needed for offline listening.
- File size: Lossless files are less compressed and take up more space.
- Data usage: Streaming over mobile networks may cause your data plan to be consumed quickly.
A New Chapter in Music Experience
Spotify Lossless brings a long-awaited feature to Premium subscribers at no additional cost. While services like Apple Music and Tidal also offer high-resolution audio, Spotify’s advantages lie in its affordability and broad device compatibility. Music lovers now have easier access to a more natural, detailed, and immersive listening experience.
