Amazon music vs Qobuz

Amazon (on Windows, anyway)

• Works only through default sound drivers
• Hard or impossible to get through a Roon or DLNA system
• Very large catalog
• Low cost

Qobuz

• Works through ASIO or WASAPI Exclusive sound drivers, which gives best sound
• Networks easily with Roon or other systems
• Smaller catalog than Amazon
• Slightly higher cost

I did not make sound comparisons. Qobuz won for me because of its ability to integrate with my main (networked) audio system, currently using Roon, previously using DLNA. It also was a winner by independently controlling the sound drivers used, to avoid meddling by Windows or other OS in my desktop (USB-connected) system.

I found Amazon HD an exercise in frustration to get working at reliable highest resolutions or to integrate with my system. Perhaps that has changed in the several years since I tried it?

The difference is Amazon plays on very few Hifi devices.

If you are happy with your computer or Bluesound you might never hear any difference.

When I acquired the ability to stream music I got trial subscriptions to both Tidal and Qobuz. Qobuz won the face-off and I still enjoy it immensely. It didn’t matter that for a time I also had MQA capability.

As a classical nut, I also truly appreciate Idagio. I must say, too, that the sound quality I get from the CD quality Idagio is often just as good if not better than Qobuz’ hi-def offerings.

You can use Amazon music or most any popular streaming app with any hifi streamer that supports Airplay which works splendidly. Google cast is the other similar option. Apps on most streamer devices tend to be very limited in terms of useful features. Vendor provided apps you run on commercial smartphones, tablets and computers tend to be much better feature-wise.  Getting good sound from a commercial computer to a hifi can be tricky but with devices that support airplay or google cast a piece of cake.  

I pay $16 a month for a Family Unlimited Music plan. I got four months free and I can use on multiple devices at the same time. I built a dedicated PC last summer for streaming and gaming. I use a Sound Blaster AE-7 sound card analogue out to my pre amp for stereo in my main system. I also listen on my android with a Hip Dac. I realize both my DACs are under $200 (with headphone amp) so I am sure others will have better SQ. But Amazon HD and Ultra HD sounds more than good enough for me.