Quadio Blu-Ray Audio: What It Is and How to Play It

Quick Answer

Quadio Blu-Ray Audio is a high-resolution audio format that delivers studio-quality sound, often in surround sound, on a Blu-ray disc. To play it, you need a Blu-ray player or game console and an AV receiver or soundbar that supports the audio formats on the disc.

If you've come across the term "Quadio" while browsing for new music releases, you might be wondering what it means and whether it's worth your attention. Quadio is a brand name used for a series of Blu-ray Audio discs that offer high-resolution audio, often including surround sound mixes. It's a way to experience albums with more depth and clarity than standard CDs.

In this guide, we'll break down what Quadio Blu-Ray Audio is, how it differs from a regular CD, and the exact steps to play these discs on your home system. Whether you're a longtime collector or new to high-resolution audio, this will help you get the most out of your purchase.

What Is Quadio Blu-Ray Audio?

Quadio is a series of Blu-ray Audio discs that feature high-resolution audio, often in surround sound. Unlike standard CDs, which are limited to 16-bit/44.1kHz stereo, Blu-ray Audio can carry much higher resolution tracks, such as 24-bit/96kHz or even 24-bit/192kHz. This means more detail and a more immersive listening experience.

The name "Quadio" is a nod to the original quadraphonic sound format from the 1970s, but the modern discs go far beyond that. Many Quadio releases include the original stereo mix, a new surround mix, and sometimes even the original quad mix, all on one disc. For example, the upcoming Blu-ray Audio release of Jethro Tull's Aqualung includes a new Dolby Atmos mix, a 5.1 surround mix, and the original 1974 quadraphonic mix.

This makes Quadio an attractive option for audiophiles and collectors who want the definitive version of an album. However, it's important to understand that not all Blu-ray players can play these discs correctly, which is why we've put together this guide.

• Quadio discs are Blu-ray Audio, not standard CDs, so they require a Blu-ray player.
• They often include multiple mixes: stereo, surround, and sometimes quadraphonic.

Quadio vs CD: What's the Difference?

The main difference between a CD and a Quadio Blu-Ray Audio disc is the audio quality and the number of channels. A standard CD is limited to 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution and two channels (stereo). Quadio Blu-Ray Audio can offer much higher resolution, which means more detail and a wider dynamic range. Additionally, many Quadio discs include surround sound mixes, which put you in the middle of the music.

However, there are tradeoffs. CDs are playable in almost any CD player, including car stereos and portable players. Blu-ray Audio discs require a Blu-ray player, which many people have connected to their TV but not necessarily to their stereo system. If you don't have a Blu-ray player, you'll need to add one to your setup.

Another consideration is cost. Blu-ray Audio discs are often priced higher than standard CDs, but they usually include multiple mixes, so you're getting more content. For example, the 2LP vinyl edition of Chopin's Polonaises is a different format entirely, but the Blu-ray Audio version of Aqualung offers multiple mixes that you can't get on CD.

• CDs are more universally compatible, but Blu-ray Audio offers superior sound and surround mixes.
• Consider your current equipment before choosing between CD and Blu-ray Audio.

How to Play Quadio Blu-Ray Audio: Step-by-Step

1. Check Your Player: Make sure you have a Blu-ray player. Most modern Blu-ray players and game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox can play Blu-ray Audio discs. However, some older models may not support the high-resolution audio formats or Dolby Atmos, so check your player's manual. If your player doesn't support Blu-ray Audio, you'll need to upgrade.
2. Connect to an AV Receiver or Soundbar: To enjoy surround sound, connect your Blu-ray player to an AV receiver or soundbar that supports the audio formats on the disc. Use an HDMI cable for the best quality. For Dolby Atmos, your receiver must support Atmos. If you only have a stereo system, you can still play the stereo mix, but you'll miss the surround experience.
3. Insert the Disc and Select the Audio Track: Put the disc in your player and navigate the menu. Most Quadio discs offer a choice of audio mixes—stereo, 5.1 surround, or even quadraphonic. Select the one that matches your system. If you have a surround setup, choose the surround or Atmos mix. Check that your receiver displays the correct audio format (e.g., Dolby Atmos or DTS-HD MA).
4. Adjust Your System Settings: Make sure your player is set to output bitstream (not PCM) if you want your receiver to decode the high-resolution audio. This is often found in the player's audio settings. If you're using a soundbar, ensure it's set to the correct input. Incorrect settings can result in downmixed audio or no sound at all.

Blu-Ray Audio Titles to Consider

• Aqualung (1BD): Steven Wilson has newly remixed both albums in Dolby Atmos, 5.1 Surround and stereo. Plus, for the first time on Blu-ray, the original 1974 Quadraphonic mixes are included, remastered for a whole new generation of listeners. This is a perfect example of a Quadio-style release that offers multiple mixes on one disc, giving you the full history of the album in high resolution.

Quadio Blu-Ray Audio is a fantastic way to experience high-resolution, surround sound music. By following these steps, you can ensure you're getting the best possible sound from your discs. Whether you're exploring classic albums like Aqualung or new releases, Blu-ray Audio offers a level of detail that CDs can't match.