What Is Lossless Audio?

Lossless audio is a type of digital audio compression that allows all of the original audio data to be perfectly preserved when it’s played back.

As music lovers demand better quality and richer detail, lossless audio is becoming the gold standard. But what exactly does “lossless audio” mean, and do you actually need it? For us at JBL, the answer is simple: it's all about engineering sound for a true-to-source listening experience.

As mentioned above, lossless audio preserves every bit of the original recording. When music is recorded, it’s stored as digital data. Lossless formats like Free Lossless Audio Codec (FLAC), Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) for Apple users, and Waveform Audio File Format (WAV) compress that data without removing any information. This means what you hear during playback is an exact replica of the original studio file, not a watered-down version. There’s no best audio format, just what works for your sound.

That’s what separates it from "lossy" audio, like MPEG-1 Audio Layer III (MP3s) or Advanced Audio Coding (AACs). In lossy compression, subtle audio details like background sounds and fine spatial cues are removed to shrink file size. If you're aiming for true-to-source quality, lossy just won’t cut it. And it’s this dedication to preserving the artist's vision that has been at the core of JBL's legacy, and it's why we champion lossless audio.

Whether you're streaming on the go or curating a high-fidelity home theatre setup, understanding how compressed (lossy) and lossless formats work can help you get the most out of your music.

Lossy formats like MP3 and AAC make files smaller by stripping out bits of data that are considered non-essential. This was great in the early days of portable players, where storage was limited. But convenience came at a cost: Less depth, muddier bass, flatter vocals.

Think of it as sending a photo over WhatsApp. It gets there, but it’s been shrunk and smoothed out. You’re receiving “good enough”, but not “crystal clear”.

Now imagine zipping a folder of photos. When you unzip it, you get everything back exactly as it was. That’s lossless. You compress the file for storage or streaming, but none of the musical detail is lost.

So, what is lossless audio really about? It’s about hearing music the way the artist intended — nothing added, nothing taken away.

Technically speaking, lossless audio is always better. It holds more data, and more data means more sonic detail. Lossless means a fuller experience. You hear every layer of an instrument, and with the right gear, like a JBL gaming headset, it means full immersion in the sounds that make a new world.

Curious about how to actually experience the full magic of lossless audio? It’s not about formats and files, it’s about going on a sonic journey through music, fantasy, and life.

To enjoy lossless audio, you’ll need to start with the right source. Here are a few ways to access high-quality tracks:

• Streaming services: Look for platforms that support lossless audio or Hi-Res formats. Popular picks include Apple Music for ALAC, Tidal for FLAC and Master Quality Authenticated (MQA), and Amazon Music HD.

• Local files: Have FLAC or WAV files stored on your laptop? You’re good to go. Just use a compatible media player — and make sure your output device supports lossless decoding.

What about Spotify? While there’s been talk of a Spotify lossless audio tier, it's not yet widely available — but worth keeping an eye on.

Just like your music source, your device settings matter! Here’s how to get lossless audio on some of the most popular devices:

• iPhone: Go to Settings > Music > Audio Quality > Select "Lossless" or "Hi-Res Lossless".

• Android: This can vary by device. Check your music app's settings for an "Audio Quality" or "Hi-Fi" option. For some devices, a wired connection or an external DAC may be required.

• Windows:This can vary by streaming platform or media player. Check your settings and search for an "Audio Quality", "Audio Format", or "Hi-Fi" option.

• Mac:In the Apple Music app, go to Music > Preferences > Playback Settings > Select "Lossless Audio".

Settings and availability can differ based on your device, software version, and streaming platform, so we recommend checking with your specific app or device manufacturer for the most accurate instructions.

All that pristine audio doesn’t mean much if your gear can’t keep up. That’s why you’ll need high-resolution headphones or speakers that are built for lossless formats:

The rugged JBL Charge 6 delivers a powerful, room-filling sound and can play lossless audio when connected via its USB-C port.

A compact yet mighty speaker, the JBL Flip 7 offers lossless audio playback when connected via its USB-C port, giving you a surprisingly rich and detailed sound for its size.

The JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx combines luxury comfort with true studio sound, offering lossless audio playback via USB-C for the most discerning listeners.

Our gear delivers richer, more detailed sound that's built for your needs. Whether you're hustling through Raffles Place during rush hour or plugged into your home hi-fi setup in your HDB flat, we have a lossless-ready solution.

Depending on your setup and how you listen, you may also need:

• Digital-to-analogue converter (DAC): Converts the digital file into analogue sound. Some smartphones have decent ones built in; others require an external DAC for true lossless fidelity.

• Amplifiers: Help drive high-impedance wired headphones and maximise dynamic range.

Lossless audio isn’t just for audio engineers or obsessive collectors; it’s for anyone who wants to experience music in full fidelity.

At JBL, we design sound experiences that go beyond playback. From over-ear headphones to studio-quality wired headphones and portable Bluetooth speakers that support digital input, our gear brings you closer to the artist’s vision.

Explore JBL's range of high-fidelity headphones and speakers today!