Published on August 22nd, 2019 | by Darren Paltrowitz
0The Only Place To Stream TOOL’s Catalog In 24-Bit Certified Hi-Res Audio, You Ask? Try “Qobuz”
Founded in 2008, Qobuz’s mission statement is to “offer the digital world the aspects of music fandom that audiophiles, those who love music best, have always cherished.” This not only entailed “quality sound” but also “quality editorial and a freedom of choice.” In turn, Qobuz was the first music service in the world to retail CD-Quality, 16-bit/44.1kHz files for streaming, and another world-first in liaising with both major and independent labels to ensure the provision of 24-Bit Hi-Res files, which make up the bulk of its catalogue — featuring millions of genre-spanning tracks — today.
A cult band if there ever was one, TOOL has sold many millions of albums while playing by its own set of rules. Not only does the band release new music infrequently — its forthcoming album Fear Incoulum is its first new studio full-length in 13 years — but until last month, TOOL had kept its music off of all digital streaming and download sites. Now, the full TOOL recorded catalog is on all of your favorite sites, with the forthcoming Fear Incoulum slated to hit all online outlets on Friday, August 30th.
However, there is only one streaming service where you can check out TOOL’s catalog in that aforementioned “24-Bit Hi-Res” audio format, and that is Qobuz. In turn, audiophile-minded TOOL fans must check out Qobuz. While browsing around the service, I was able to find that high-quality audio-fare for titles by The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Cheap Trick, Whitesnake and KISS, so I have plenty to listen to on Qobuz. As its subscription plans start at $9.99 per month — discounted at $99.99 for the full year — there is no doubt that Qobuz is worth checking out if you are a major music fan who enjoys streaming high-quality music via desktop or (phone or tablet-based) app.