TIDAL MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is a high-resolution audio technology that claims to offer studio-quality sound to music enthusiasts. It is a lossless audio codec that promises to deliver the original sound quality of a recording by removing any data loss issues. The technology has been introduced by TIDAL, a music streaming platform, in partnership with MQA, a UK-based audio technology company. The service promises a superior audio experience, but it has attracted mixed reactions from the music community.

Despite the promising potential of TIDAL MQA, it has been surrounded by controversy since its introduction. The most significant point of contention is the cost of the service, which is much higher than that of traditional music streaming platforms. The cost of TIDAL MQA depends on the quality of the audio provided, as the service has three different tiers. The basic plan offers standard sound quality for $9.99 per month, while the Hi-Fi plan costs $19.99 per month and offers CD-quality sound. The most expensive plan, TIDAL Masters, costs $24.99 per month and offers high-resolution audio quality, including MQA.

Another controversy surrounding TIDAL MQA is its technical compatibility. The MQA format is not yet supported by all digital devices or software players. This means that users who want to access the MQA version of TIDAL’s library must have an MQA-compatible device or software, which can be limiting. Furthermore, critics have argued that TIDAL MQA is not entirely lossless and that the use of MQA compressions is misleading and disguises lost data.

The controversy also extends to the MQA technology itself. Some experts have questioned the claimed benefits of MQA, arguing that the technology does not deliver the sound quality promised and that it is merely a marketing gimmick. They claim that the high cost of TIDAL MQA is unjustified, as it does not provide any significant advantage over existing music streaming services.

Despite the criticisms, there are those who believe in the potential of TIDAL MQA. Supporters of the technology argue that it is a step in the right direction for music streaming, as it helps to bridge the gap between the studio experience and the listener. They claim that the superior sound quality of TIDAL MQA enhances the listening experience and immerses the listener in the music.