In many devices, audio quality has been sacrificed for the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity. The ‘Hi-Res Audio Wireless’ certification is intended to distinguish wireless audio technologies delivering high-resolution audio support, and was previously awarded to the LDAC (Sony) and LHDC (Savitech) codecs, both created to expand optional higher-quality levels for streaming over Bluetooth Classic (via Bluetooth A2DP).
Wireless devices account for a large segment of music listening over headphones, earbuds, and wireless speakers. According to market research firm Futuresource, Bluetooth speakers and wireless headphones are forecasted to have a combined annual retail value of $69 Billion US dollars in 2022, with wireless headphones achieving a market penetration rate of 85%. MQair, powered by SCL6, means the listener need not sacrifice quality for convenience.
Expanding on MQA's core technology, MQair delivers detail and clarity by focussing on the time domain – a critical factor in the human perception of high-resolution sound. "This fresh perspective enables an exceptional audio experience and responds to rising consumer demand for better wireless sound. The technology supports both MQA and PCM audio up to 384kHz, and the encoded data rate can be scaled seamlessly from 20Mbps to below 200kbps, covering Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Wi-Fi links. It offers low latency and high efficiency for extended battery life," MQA states.
"We are very honored that JAS has certified SCL6 for use with its Hi-Res Audio Wireless logo. This latest technology is born of our passion for the highest sound quality and an understanding that such quality brings us closer to the music. With MQair we can improve the listening experience for many listeners and extend the MQA ecosystem to wireless devices. High resolution isn’t necessarily defined by the big things – it is shaped by small elements in the sound that convey details, separation, color and space. Our reference for transparency is air itself. We are excited to use these insights in the design of MQair to bring a more enjoyable experience to audio fans and music lovers everywhere,” commented Bob Stuart, MQA Founder & CTO.
As more and more people enjoy music by connecting wirelessly their smartphones or digital audio players to earphones or small speakers, their existing options for Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified solutions used the LDAC codec from Sony, or the LHDC codec from Savitech, both of which were certified by the Japan Audio Society. Other high resolution audio alternatives for Bluetooth transmission include the aptX HD codec, also part of the aptX Adaptive suite of scalable codecs from Qualcomm.The addition of the two new codecs, SCL6 and LC3plus, will provide audio device manufacturers and licensee companies more options for adopting Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified solutions that offer higher quality alternatives to the existing default SBC codec.
All products applying for the Hi-Res Audio Wireless logo must use certified codecs, and for functions other than wireless connections, they must meet the Hi-Res Audio standard. Both Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless logos are registered trademarks or trademarks of Japan Audio Society.
MQA Ltd is a research, development and licensing company, whose first product to market – Master Quality Authenticated (MQA) – is a breakthrough suite of technologies developed and patented by Peter Craven and Bob Stuart, that delivers the original sound of the recording studio in a format that is small enough to stream. This technology is licensed by leading record labels, music services, broadcasters and hardware manufacturers worldwide.
www.mqa.co.uk
www.jas-audio.or.jp
