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Glossary term

High-resolution audio

A label commonly used for audio specifications beyond the 16-bit, 44.1 kHz PCM reference of CD audio. Exact criteria depend on the labeling system; the label alone does not establish source provenance or audible improvement.

Explained in depth

Digital audio & DACs

Lossless vs high-resolution audio: what each means

Lossless describes whether encoding preserves the digital audio samples supplied to it. High-resolution describes audio specifications, usually beyond the CD reference of 16-bit, 44.1 kHz PCM. These are separate properties. A lossless file can use CD resolution, while a higher-resolution label does not establish the original master, the playback route or an audible improvement.

PN
Pure Neo editorial
Updated 4 Oct 2026
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