Qobuz Debuts in Japan, Bringing First Hi-Res Music Streaming Service to World's Second-Largest Market

By Marcus Bennett

November 16, 2024 at 08:58 PM

Qobuz, the French high-quality music streaming pioneer, has officially launched in Japan, marking its entry into the world's second-largest music market. This expansion makes Qobuz the first hi-res streaming and download service in the region.

Five Qobuz music app interface screens

Five Qobuz music app interface screens

This launch represents Qobuz's 26th territory expansion, following successful operations in 25 other countries. The move comes after their strategic acquisition of e-onkyo music in 2021, positioning them uniquely in a market where physical sales still account for over 50% of revenue, despite global streaming dominance.

Key Features of Qobuz in Japan:

  • Uncompressed audio quality from 16-bit CD quality to 24-bit/192 kHz
  • Support for DXD and DSD formats
  • Access to over 100 million titles
  • Integration of e-onkyo music's high-resolution tracks
  • Specialized Japanese music catalog, including J-pop
  • Comprehensive editorial content through Qobuz Magazine

The platform differentiates itself through three core offerings:

  • High-resolution streaming
  • High-resolution downloads
  • Expert editorial content including artist interviews, genre deep dives, and Hi-Fi gear reviews

This expansion strengthens Qobuz's position as a leading high-quality music service, particularly significant in Japan's growing streaming market where premium audio offerings remain limited.

Man in suit looking at phone.

Man in suit looking at phone.

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Female in white shirt smiling.

Get Jewels dialog box.

Get Jewels dialog box.

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