Qobuz caps off a milestone 2024 with expansion into Japan, new audio formats, exclusive releases, and more

Qobuz, the high-quality music streaming and download platform, is closing out a year of milestones that included international expansion into Japan, new audio formats, exclusive Hi-Res releases, and best-in-class partnerships with industry leaders. Through this year’s series of successes, Qobuz reinforced both its status as the go-to DSP for music lovers and audiophiles, and its reputation as a leader in premium sound.

International and audience expansion

In October, Qobuz launched its long-awaited expansion into Japan – the world’s second-largest music market and the platform’s 26th country. This milestone follows a series of successful expansions, including Canada in 2023 and Latin America in 2022, as Qobuz continues to grow its global footprint. Additionally, in 2024, the US surpassed France as Qobuz’ top market. 

For the second year in a row, Qobuz Deputy CEO Georges Fornay made Billboard’s International Power Players list, and Managing Director of North America and Northern Europe, Dan Mackta joined the list for the first time as well.

In its mission to cater to a growing younger, passionate userbase, Qobuz introduced the Studio Student subscription plan, offering students a more affordable way to experience its unmatched high-quality music listening experience. 

And for its audiophile core, Qobuz rolled out Direct Stream Digital (DSD) and Digital eXtreme Definition (DXD) audio formats on its download store, ensuring access to the most desirable sound quality available.

Exclusives for true music lovers

Continuing its "boutique in a superstore world" approach, Qobuz delivered an impressive lineup of exclusive albums and recordings this year, as well. 

Collaborations with Sam First Records brought standout releases like Clam City (featuring Jeff Babko, Tim Lefebvre, and Mark Guiliana) and projects from Rachel Eckroth and Devin Daniels. International Anthem, a trusted partner, furthered its collaboration with Qobuz and Public Records for the third time annually by co-presenting concerts and exclusive live EPs featuring Anteloper, Damon Locks & Rob Mazurek, and Ben LaMar Gay. 

For the second consecutive year, the Qobuz Sessions at SXSW live EPs arrived on the platform, presented in full 24-bit Hi-Res “like you’re in the studio” quality. These recordings spotlighted rising indie and experimental talents, including Cosmo Pyke, Allegra Krieger, and Maria Chiara Argirò. 

Additionally, Qobuz expanded its high-quality offering for music fanatics by becoming the sole home of The Metallica Report podcast in Hi-Res.

Best-in-class partnerships

Throughout 2024, Qobuz continued its global partnerships through collaborations with German labels like ECM and ACT Music to deliver exclusive compilations, playlists, editorial content, and original video features. The platform also launched activations and events at key industry gatherings, including AXPONA, where Qobuz moderated expert panels at North America’s premier audio show. Further international partnerships included Festival Bach Montreal, where Qobuz sponsored an array of classical music concerts and curated playlists, and The Great Escape Festival in the UK.

Continuing to set the gold standard for music streaming and downloads, Qobuz delivers exceptional sound and curated experiences that audiophiles and music lovers crave. With PDF liner notes and credits, expertly curated playlists, editorial features, artist interviews, and more for the music lover who wants the most from what they're hearing, Qobuz brings fans closer to the music they love and remains the top choice for premium sound in 2024 and beyond. 

Watch this space for more to come in 2025 from Qobuz!