[*_*]

Originally Posted by froopy seal

Why? Do you have the hi-fi and ears to hear a difference that matters? (I'm not trying to mock anyone, this question is meant seriously.) If yes, what would be an "acceptable" bitrate for your personal equipment?

Ok, I listen to the music on the computer via the following setup.

Powerbook/G4 Desktop -->iTunes --> M-Audio Transit 24/96 --> Headroom MicroDAC --> Mini^3PINT DIY Amp --> 26ga Silver/Switchcraft IC --> AKG K701

And the riverrun files are muddy, flat, and congested. Borderline intolerable (to me).

Interepret this however one may. But yes, there are people out there that most definitely can hear the difference. It's frustrating when you love a band like UW as much as I do and they release stuff that can't even be enjoyed at the level that (I think) it should be able to be enjoyed at.