CD vs. Vinyl vs. Lossless — A Detailed Duel of Sound Titans
CDs and vinyl records have evolved over time to become significant symbols and enjoy unparalleled reputation. Each of these mediums reveals its own unique sound quality and allows for a fascinating listening experience. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of sound excellence of each format and further explore the exciting comparison between CD, vinyl, and digital high-resolution audio.
Sound Quality
Vinyl records are said to be true masterpieces of sonic art. The subtle nuances and harmonic facets created by the physical reliefs (grooves) on the record produce an unmatched acoustic experience full of warmth and naturalness. Each groove represents a specific sound. However, comparing the sampling rate and frequency spectrum can be a bit confusing. A typical 12-inch, 33 rpm vinyl record has a frequency spectrum of approximately 22 kHz, which is roughly equivalent to a digital 44.1 kHz sampling rate. This is due to the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem, which states that the sampling rate must be at least twice the highest frequency to be accurately captured. The bit depth of an LP is equivalent to 24+ bits.
On the other hand, CDs use a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz, which is 44,100 samples per second, to reproduce the acoustic impulses as faithfully as possible. It utilizes a bit depth of 16 bits. The result is a lower bit depth but also lower background noise, such as the well-known vinyl surface noise.
Vinyl records offer an incomparable quality feature compared to CDs with their wider loudness spectrum and impressive dynamic range. The so-called “increased loudness spectrum” of vinyl refers to the presentation of volume differences in an audio recording through bit depth. In comparison to CDs, the loudness spectrum of vinyl is slightly wider (simplified: CD 16 bits / LP 24+ bits). The physical reliefs in the groove and the variations in sound pressure allow for a natural representation of loudness differences and give the music a special liveliness. This creates a more dynamic sound with clear distinctions between soft and loud passages. This unique characteristic of vinyl makes the listening experience a true delight for audiophile music enthusiasts.
On the other hand, CDs are based on digital sampling and storage of sound in the form of samples. The volume is represented by the number of bits in the bit depth.
Tactile Experience and Aesthetics
Vinyl records offer a sensual and nostalgic experience that is hard to find in today’s computerized world. Touching the record, placing it on the turntable, and experiencing the visual elegance of an LP are moments of sensory joy. The full-size cover allows for an aesthetic and tactile pleasure that elevates the music experience to a whole new level. In line with the principles of “sensory-artistic education” in Waldorf pedagogy, something happens here that we humans find less and less in our artificial, often very virtual and isolated world. It’s about experiencing with all senses of perception, whether visual, auditory, olfactory (smell), tactile (haptic), or interoceptive (internal, sensory) and so on.
On the other hand, CDs have a practical and compact format. They are portable and easy to transport. Before the era of streaming, they were also playable everywhere. However, CD drives and players have become rare commodities in 2023. One advantage, though, is that jewel cases can be easily replaced, fixing any wear and tear on the case. Then there is the booklet, which often contains artwork, texts about the performers, their history, old photos, and occasionally the lyrics of individual tracks. This opens up a world of information and stories about the music for the listeners. In the case of lyrics, it occasionally provides poetic enjoyment as well.
Masters and CD/Vinyl Quality
In audiophile circles, vinyl is often associated with analog masters that can further emphasize the specific character of vinyl. However, since 1982, when the compact disc was jointly introduced by Philips and Sony, many digital masters have also found their way onto vinyl. Taking into account the aforementioned characteristics of sound quality, this leads to a suboptimal result that combines the limitations of digital and analog formats. There are ways to model the sound in a non-analog manner to optimize it for vinyl, but this is not a viable option for discerning audio enthusiasts. For many releases, especially outside the mainstream, it is also common that the master tapes are no longer available. Thus, the question arises whether a vinyl release is even meaningful in such cases solely based on quality. On the other hand, a very similar quality can be achieved with 24-bit or 32-bit digital masters, surpassing the standard 16-bit of the compact disc.
Now, in 2023, and especially since the revival of vinyl (around 2006–2008 and continuing), it has become common practice to press digital masters onto vinyl. The advantages are clear: valuable original tapes do not need to be lent to licensees. Postage, time savings, and post-production edits are also important aspects to mention. For audiophile demands, the choice of the right master, considering the intended format, is crucial to stay as close as possible to the original master tapes in terms of quality.
Initially, CDs were pressed in “AAD”* format. Later, with the increasing digitization, “DDD”* became the new preferred method. It is also claimed that “AAD”* ensures higher fidelity of the original sound.
High-Resolution Audio
Another exciting possibility is High-Resolution Audio. With higher sampling rates and bit depths than CDs, this format allows for even more precise capturing and playback of audio signals. Formats such as FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), ALAC (Apple Lossless Audio Codec), or DSD (Direct Stream Digital) provide lossless compression and deliver impressive quality.
Another notable development in the field of high-res audio is the Super Audio CD (SACD). It uses a significantly higher bit depth of 24 bits, allowing for more accurate capturing and reproduction of music. In comparison, conventional CDs only utilize a depth of 16 bits.
In addition to the increased bit depths, formats like FLAC, ALAC, and DSD offer lossless compression. FLAC and ALAC use a bit depth of 16 or 24 bits, while DSD utilizes a bit depth of 1 bit. Although a 1-bit bit depth may seem very low compared to the usual 16- or 24-bit depths of other formats, DSD employs a very high sampling rate, usually 2.8224 MHz or 5.6448 MHz. This achieves an extremely precise representation of audio signals and enables a wide dynamic range.
Who’s the Winner?
The choice between vinyl, CD, or digital formats ultimately depends on personal preferences regarding sound, sensory experience, and convenience. Digital formats can be advantageous, particularly for those on a limited budget or with limited space, which can make a significant difference for people with low income. From a practical standpoint, CDs take second place as they are significantly cheaper and smaller than vinyl. Those who have moved a record collection multiple times will understand why LPs take third place in this regard. However, now that it has become clear that there are various influencing factors for personal preference, it can be said that comparing the different formats is difficult since each has its own distinct advantages. This applies not only to quality but also to other aspects such as acquisition and maintenance costs, the experience of playing, and personal priorities.
~ Written by: DJ Kahuna, Co-Author: Spock. 2023 for www.rum-n-coconutwater.com
*DDD (Digital Recording, Digital Mixing, Digital Mastering) and AAA (Analog Recording, Analog Mixing, Analog Mastering) are terms used in audio production. DDD represents fully digital production, while AAA represents a fully analog production.