MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)
MQA is a proprietary "folded" hi-res audio format designed for streaming. Claims lossless-equivalent quality in smaller files by unfolding compressed bit layers. Controversial in the audiophile community. Tidal used to stream MQA but is transitioning to FLAC hi-res.
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is a proprietary audio codec/format from MQA Ltd. It uses “origami folding” to embed hi-res audio (24-bit / 96+ kHz) within a container that can be transmitted at CD-rate bandwidth.
How it works
Full unfolding requires an MQA-certified DAC. Non-MQA DACs receive 44.1 kHz playback. MQA-enabled DACs unfold to 88.2/96 kHz and beyond.
Controversy
Critics argue MQA is “lossy” (not truly lossless), adds a licensing tax to hardware, and offers no audible benefit over regular FLAC hi-res. Audio Science Review measurements show MQA introduces measurable (though inaudible) artifacts.
Current relevance
Tidal (the main MQA promoter) is transitioning to FLAC hi-res streaming. Apple Music, Qobuz, Amazon Music HD all skip MQA. Legacy audiophile installations may still use it.
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