Amazon reportedly preparing hi-res music streaming tier

Amazon reportedly preparing hi-res streaming tier

Spotify's entrance into the hi-res streaming pool has been long rumoured - and desired - over the years, but it could be Amazon who pips the green giant to the hi-res streaming post. 

Amazon is preparing to launch a hi-res tier later this year, according to Music Business Worldwide, who has allegedly heard 'whispers' from several music industry sources regarding the upcoming launch of a high-fidelity platform. The report continues to say that at least one major record company has already agreed to license it.

The new Amazon tier would reportedly offer above-CD-quality streaming at $15/month, sitting above Amazon Music Unlimited's current $9.99/per month tier, which, like Spotify, offers streams under 16-bit CD quality.

The new hi-res option would directly compete with - and, price-wise, undercut - Tidal and Qobuz, who both offer hi-res, 24-bit streaming services for £19.99/month and £24.99/month respectively.

At only $15/£15 per month, such a service from the retail giant could spell trouble for streaming's two hi-res audio pioneers if it matches their catalogue availability and bitrate quality.

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Becky Roberts

Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10 years in the hi-fi industry, she has been fortunate enough to travel the world to report on the biggest and most exciting brands in hi-fi and consumer tech (and has had the jetlag and hangovers to remember them by). In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.