Qobuz Connect: The Audiophile’s Network Streaming Protocol — From Hi Res Ambition to Global Hi Fi Ecosystem (2022–2026)

Qobuz Connect is the native Wi‑Fi streaming protocol built for high‑res lossless audio, letting users control playback via the Qobuz app while streaming directly from Qobuz’s cloud to Hi‑Fi hardware. Launched in 2025 after years of audiophile anticipation, it’s defined by uncompromised Hi‑Res support, tight hardware partnerships, and seamless app‑to‑device control — making it a cornerstone for premium multi‑room audio systems. Below is its full evolution, core tech, ecosystem growth, and future roadmap, with a focus on why it’s perfect for high‑end smart amplifiers.

As innovators in premium multi-room smart amplifiers, we turn Qobuz Connect’s 24‑bit/192kHz Hi‑Res and DSD support into synchronized, room‑filling Hi‑Fi — because great music deserves equally exceptional playback, whether you’re casting from your phone or the cloud.

1. Pre‑Launch: Years of Hi‑Res Groundwork & Demand (2022–2024)

• 2022: Qobuz teases “Connect” development (VP David Solomon’s public mention sparks widespread user demand). Core challenge: Build a protocol that preserves 24‑bit/192kHz Hi‑Res, DSD, DXD — no quality compromise for convenience.
• 2023–2024: Partner alignment with StreamUnlimited (software stack) and 50+ Hi‑Fi brands (Naim, MOON, Auralic, Denon, Marantz) to ensure cross‑device compatibility. Beta tests in 2024 refine cloud‑to‑device streaming, mDNS discovery, and lossless passthrough.
• 2024: Qobuz expands to Japan; adds DSD/DXD support (1bit/2.8MHz to 24‑bit/352.8kHz) — laying the groundwork for Connect’s Hi‑Res DNA.

Unlike Spotify/Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect was engineered first for audiophile quality, not just convenience.

2. Official Launch: High End Munich 2025 (May 15, 2025)

• Launch Event: Debuts at High End Munich 2025 — the world’s top Hi‑Fi trade show — with 60+ launch partners (Denon, Marantz, Naim, McIntosh, Focal, WiiM, Volumio).
• Core Features:

• • Hi‑Res Uncompromised: Streams CD‑quality (16‑bit/44.1kHz), Hi‑Res (24‑bit/192kHz), DSD, and DXD — no downsampling.

• • App‑Centric Control: Qobuz app (mobile/desktop) acts as remote; hardware plays direct from cloud — no phone battery drain or interruptions.

• • Seamless Handoff: Pause on one device, resume on another (e.g., from living room amp to bedroom speaker) without dropouts.

• Key Differentiator: Designed for Hi‑Fi, not just consumer tech — integrates with premium amplifiers/streamers via OTA updates (e.g., Audiolab 9000N).

Launch fixes Qobuz’s longstanding “app‑to‑hardware” gap, ending reliance on Bluetooth/AirPlay/Chromecast (which limit quality).

3. Ecosystem Expansion: 2025–2026

• 2025 H2: 100+ hardware partners (Volumio, HEOS, Cambridge Audio, Onkyo) add Connect via firmware updates; 1M+ compatible devices by late 2025.
• 2026: Multi‑room sync (sub‑100ms) for whole‑home Hi‑Fi; voice control (Google Assistant/Alexa) for “Hey Google, play Qobuz on kitchen amp”.
• 2026: Matter 1.2 integration — Connect works with Alexa/Apple Home devices, breaking ecosystem silos.

Qobuz Connect’s growth leans on Qobuz’s 100M+ Hi‑Res tracks and Hi‑Fi brands’ trust in its quality focus.

4. Core Identity: Why Qobuz Connect Stands Out

• Hi‑Res First: Native support for 24‑bit/192kHz, DSD (1bit/2.8–22.5MHz), DXD (24‑bit/352.8kHz) — no quality cap for premium hardware.
• Cloud‑Direct Streaming: App controls, hardware plays — no phone dependency; stable even if your phone disconnects.
• Hi‑Fi Partner Alignment: Built with brands, not against them — OTA updates and open SDK for easy integration into amplifiers/streamers.

Unlike Spotify Connect (mainstream focus) or Tidal Connect (later Hi‑Res adoption), Qobuz Connect is born for audiophiles, prioritizing quality over compatibility shortcuts.

5. Future Vision (2026–2030)

• Matter Deepening: Full Matter 1.3+ integration (2026) — cross‑platform smart home control; group Connect devices with non‑Qobuz hardware.
• Ultra‑Low Latency: Sub‑50ms sync for live concerts and multi‑room gaming (2027) — critical for high‑end home theater amps.
• AI Contextual Playback: Auto‑cast to room‑specific amps via Qobuz app sensors (e.g., morning jazz to kitchen amp) (2028).
• Low‑Power Hi‑Res: For portable amps/speakers, 30%+ lower power draw without losing 24‑bit/192kHz quality (2029).

Connect will remain Qobuz’s flagship protocol, blending uncompromised Hi‑Res with seamless user control.

6. Connect & Premium Multi‑Room Smart Amplifiers: The Ultimate Hi‑Fi Match

For high‑end multi‑room smart amplifiers, Qobuz Connect is a game‑changer:

• Hi‑Res Unlocked: 24‑bit/192kHz, DSD, DXD passthrough — pair your amp’s power with studio‑quality sound in every room.
• Multi‑Room Sync: Turn amps into a synchronized whole‑home hub, controllable via Qobuz app/voice assistants.
• No Extra Apps: Stream directly from Qobuz app to amp — no third‑party software; pure, high‑res playback.

This integration turns Qobuz’s massive Hi‑Res library into a room‑filling, no‑compromise wireless audio experience.

Qobuz Connect has redefined wireless Hi‑Fi: listeners demand amplifiers that deliver seamless multi‑room control and uncompromised high‑res sound — our amps unlock Connect’s full potential, from DSD to DXD, for a truly immersive home audio experience.

For discerning listeners, Qobuz Connect is more than a protocol — it’s the backbone of a modern Hi‑Fi ecosystem. We build amplifiers that turn Qobuz’s vision into room‑filling, studio‑quality sound for music lovers worldwide.