Qobuz

Qobuz is a French music streaming and download service specializing in high-resolution audio quality and editorial curation. Founded in Paris, Qobuz distinguishes itself from mainstream streaming platforms by offering lossless and hi-res audio formats (up to 24-bit/192kHz) that preserve the full fidelity of original recordings. The service caters particularly to audiophiles and music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality over compression convenience. Qobuz's catalog spans over 70 million tracks across all genres, with particular strength in classical, jazz, and indie music. Beyond streaming, Qobuz offers a digital download store where users can purchase high-resolution albums for offline ownership. The platform emphasizes musical context and discovery through extensive editorial content including album reviews, artist biographies, interviews, and curated playlists created by music journalists rather than algorithms. Qobuz provides detailed technical information about recordings including resolution, bit depth, and mastering information that audiophiles value. The service is compatible with numerous high-end audio systems and network players through partnerships with audio equipment manufacturers. While smaller than major streaming competitors, Qobuz has expanded from its French origins to operate across multiple European countries and North America, positioning itself as a premium service for discerning listeners who consider music appreciation an art form deserving of the highest possible reproduction quality.