Hearing vs Listening to Music

[Craig Maier]

There are two categories of music listening. One is simply hearing it in the background (as in a driving situation or while working around the house). The other category involves total concentration on the music (as in listening on a high quality audio system with no other distractions). I call the first category "hearing the music" and the second category "listening to the music". In the first category, one does not need much more than a decent quality .mp3 or equivalent. The second category requires a 44.1 kHz, 16 bit linear PCM source (CD quality or .wav). Under the conditions of the second category, the compressed format(s) are discernible, especially in A-B comparison tests. The degree of difference is also dependent on the type of music being listened to. The difference stands out the most with classical music played at concert loudness levels, imho.

Comments?

Craig