Why is “Format” Important?
CDs operate at a sample frequency of 44100 Hz. Compressed MP3 and AAC music files
and audio streams are typically encoded at three different quality levels—128kbps,
256kbps (iTunes Plus), and 320kbps—and are most often reconstructed as 44100.0 Hz
files. Similarly, many music downloads and CDs ripped as Apple Lossless or FLAC files
are reconstructed to 44100 Hz. If you have higher resolution files, it is important to
choose the correct higher sample rate in order to maximize the benefit of those files.
For the best performance with sampling rates above DragonFly Red 1.0’s 96kHz ceiling,
files should be played at a rate mathematically related to their native resolution. For
instance, a 192kHz file should be played at 96kHz (i.e., 2 x 96000.0 = 192000.0).
Some programs (such as NPR) use 48000 Hz. These 24-bit/48000 Hz files can sound
amazingly close to higher sample-rate files. Some “high-res” files use 88200 Hz, but
Windows 7 is not currently compatible with this sample rate. To play 88200 Hz music
files, Windows 7 users must select 44100 Hz, 48000 Hz, or 96000 Hz, with 44100
recommended as optimal because it is a direct multiple of the native sample rate (i.e.,
2 x 44100.0 = 88200.0). Windows 8 will play all sample rates. Windows-compatible
third-party music players, such as JRiver and foobar2000 will play 88200 Hz files at
their native sample rate. For support or more information about these music players,
please visit jriver.com or foobar2000.org. Some “high-res” files use 96000 Hz because
it is a multiple of the sample rates used on DVDs, Blu-rays and in the computer world
(i.e., 2 x 48000.0 = 96000.0).
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