FAQ

1. Creating Your MQA File

1.1. What audio file formats can I upload?

Audio files must be FLAC, WAV, AIFF.
Audio files must be stereo (2 channel).

1.2. What audio file resolution should I upload?

Your masters should be the same resolution as the final track/album project/session in your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Do not export/render to a lower or higher resolution before uploading for MQA encoding.
Supported resolutions:
  • Bit depth: 16 bit (minimum) - 32 bit (maximum)
  • Sample rate: 44.1 kHz (minimum) - 192 kHz (maximum)
For resolutions higher than 192kHz, email content@createMQA.io

1.3. What is the largest audio file I can upload?

The largest file you can upload is 2GB.
For file sizes over 2GB, email content@createMQA.io

1.4. What file will I get back?

You will receive an MQA encoded FLAC file. MQA files are always 44.1kHz or 48kHz.
To learn more, visit https://www.mqa.co.uk/how-it-works

1.5. Do I need to embed metadata into my tracks before I upload?

No this is not necessary. If your file contains metadata, the encoder will preserve basic tags (artist, track title, track number) from the input file and return them in the encoded file.
Cover art image and custom tags will not be preserved.

1.6. Can I encode more than one file at a time?

Create MQA allows one upload/encode per user at a time. Once each encoding is complete (success or fail), a new file can be uploaded.

2. Your MQA File - What Next?

2.1. How do I play my MQA file?

MQA files are backward compatible and will play back undecoded in any media player or playback system that plays FLAC.
Play back with an MQA decoder to hear the original master quality.
To learn more about MQA playback, visit https://www.bobtalks.co.uk/blog/science-mqa/mqa-playback/
For the full list of MQA playback devices, visit https://www.mqa.co.uk/playback-devices

2.2. Where can I use my MQA file?

MQA files can be used as your primary audio master or source for distribution, playback and production environments, such as streaming + download services, video production, podcasts, gaming etc.
You can also use your MQA master to create the best-sounding MP3, AAC or Ogg Vorbis file.

2.3. Can I edit/process my MQA file?

MQA is designed to deliver the original master. Editing, normalising or processing your MQA file after encoding will damage the MQA signaling, so it will not authenticate on playback, or decode on MQA devices. It will also not be identified as Master (M) on TIDAL.

2.4. Where can I distribute my MQA file? How do I get my music on TIDAL Masters?

MQA files are backward compatible, so your MQA master can be delivered everywhere. MQA tracks will automatically be identified as TIDAL Masters on the TIDAL HiFi Plus tier, if your distributor supports hi-res delivery.

3. Troubleshooting

3.1. Why did my encode fail and will I be charged?

The MQA encoder analyses your upload and checks for errors before starting the encoding. If an error is detected, you will receive an error message and a solution. Follow the guidance to remove any errors from your track before re-uploading.
Error feedback can also be found in My Files - Pending for 30 days after encoding.
You will not be charged for a failed encoding.

3.2. What is manual verification?

The MQA encoder analyses your upload before starting the encoding. Files with certain properties and/or audio characteristics may require manual verification, to ensure the encoder delivers the best possible result.
You will receive an email notification if your file requires manual verfication, and a further email when the verification is complete.
You will not be charged if your file is rejected.

3.3. Why was my file rejected during manual verification?

If your file is rejected during manual verification, you will receive feedback from the Create MQA support team via email.

4. About MQA

4.1. Why does an MQA file sound better than other masters?

MQA’s unique encoding process removes audible artefacts that occur with standard digital audio. This restores timing detail, improves resolution, and preserves the integrity of the original sound.
To learn more, go to https://www.mqa.co.uk/how-it-works

4.2. Why is it important that I make an MQA version of my master?

The MQA version of your master is the highest quality digital version you can create, and MQA's efficient packaging ensures the best sound is delivered in the most sustainable way.
To learn more, go to https://mqa.co.uk/

5. Payment questions

5.1. I can't get my payment card to be recognised

Create MQA accepts the following: Visa, Mastercard, American Express and China UnionPay. In some countries Google Pay, Apple Pay and Link may be offered.

5.2. Can I cancel my encode order?

Once your audio has been encoded and delivered, your order is complete and cannot be cancelled. If something has gone wrong with your encode, you will not be charged.
If you are not totally satisfied with your encoded audio, please email content@createMQA.io

5.3. Will I pay taxes on my purchase?

If you live within the UK, the price you pay includes 20% VAT. If you live outside the UK, the price you pay does not include VAT, however the payment solution provider may charge a local purchase tax.
The payment section requires you to supply your country of residence and a business name (your trading name or artist name). These details will appear on your purchase receipt.

5.4. Will I be charged if my encode fails or my file is rejected?

Your card is not charged until your encoded audio is ready for download. If the MQA encoder fails to produce any output, your card will not be charged.

6. Account questions

6.2. How do I close my account?

Before you close your account, remember to download all your encoded audio. Any encoded audio attached to your account will be deleted after 30 days. To close your account, email content@createMQA.io
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