Rdio Music Service Upgrades Streaming Quality

The music streaming service now offers high-quality AAC audio tracks. 

Rdio has announced an upgrade for its entire music streaming library. The company's global catalog of over 30 million songs has been converted into high-quality AAC audio.

Before the upgrade, music tracks were offered in the MP3 format at a default streaming rate of 96kbps. Now, the company allows all customers to choose between 64kbps, 96kbps, and 192kbps options in the AAC format. In addition, those who subscribe to the Rdio Unlimited service can stream music at an even higher 320kbps rate. Likewise, users can select different audio settings to suit different uses, including Wi-Fi or cellular streaming, or offline listening. Finally, Rdio also announced a new partnership with Grateful Dead band member Bob Weir to support the Musicians for Audio Quality Initiative. As part of their collaboration, Rdio is releasing an exclusive collection of music tracks by Weir recorded at the Tamalpais Research Institute.

AAC streaming is now available to all Rdio users. The ad-supported music service is free, but customers can also opt for a Rdio Unlimited subscription that offers ad-free stations and the addition of albums and playlists for $9.99 per month. The platform is compatible with Android and iOS, as well as Roku, Sonos, and Chromecast devices.

Sources: Rdio, CNET

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