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errandum Author

Level 1

22 points

Will lossless audio work via Airplay 2 and my receiver?

I have a Marantz receiver that supports Airplay 2, and supposedly, that means it transfers ALAC which should be lossless.

But does this mean it can offer the "master" 24-bit/192kHz lossless audio? Or just the 24-bit/48kHz one? I'm quite sure my stereo system supports this, but with Tidal and deezer I would use the HEOS app that I know transfers things losslessly, but apple music uses it's own thing and I'm not sure. I hate cables, but I want to use Apple Music.

Also, assuming I have good headphones, does the lightning to 3.5mm adapter that is used with the iPhones work like the Airpods Max cable (that is not completely lossless)? Just to make sure before I buy one.

Thank you!

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Posted on Jun 9, 2021 2:19 AM

Top-ranking reply

Marco Klobas

Level 6

8,279 points

Posted on Jun 9, 2021 8:02 AM

AirPlay (1 and 2) is capable of ALAC (lossless) streaming up to 44.1 kHz (48 kHz for video contents).

Hi-res lossless (over 48 kHz) isn't supported via AirPlay as a protocol, regardless of Apple Music.

That said, Apple Music in its lossless form streamed via AirPlay isn't only limited to 44.1 kHz (as expected like said before): unfortunately it's turned into a lossy (AAC) stream. It has been confirmed from various sources. Don't ask me why.

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99 replies

Jun 19, 2021 10:55 PM in response to psideras

psideras wrote:

When I choose it at Apple Music airplay settings on MacBook the lossless icon disappears.

Try to choose AirPlay system-wide – through the volume menu bar.

Jun 20, 2021 9:47 AM in response to Marco Klobas

Siri just gave me the weather in Acapulco…84 and heading down…😎

Jun 20, 2021 9:52 AM in response to Steve Birkin

Here is 29° C (84.2° F) – Trieste (Italy). 🙂

psideras

Level 1

10 points

Jun 21, 2021 10:02 AM in response to Marco Klobas

That worked. Thank you! Although it would be more useful if it could stream airplay lossless at least 44.1/16 directly from the music app. Or from iOS devices