Compare MP3 vs WAV

Can you tell the difference between mp3 and wav files? Below you will see several different samples. Each contains an original uncompressed wav, a 128kbit mp3, and a 384kbit mp3 file. Play each with headphones or on your best sound system and then click "show" to reveal which is which. See if you can tell the difference.

Note: samples are randomized each time the page is refreshed so you can take the test multiple times.

Adele

Compare modern track with solid midrange but no real highs.

384 Kbit MP3
Original WAV
128 Kbit MP3

Def Leppard

Classic Def Leppard good mids and highs.

Original WAV
384 Kbit MP3
128 Kbit MP3

The Eagles

Hotel California should be recognized by all as having strong midrange and tight kick drum.

Original WAV
128 Kbit MP3
384 Kbit MP3

Epica

This epica ballad has very clean sound and good lows and highs.

Original WAV
128 Kbit MP3
384 Kbit MP3

Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd has very good recording quality.

Original WAV
384 Kbit MP3
128 Kbit MP3

Rush

Rush Chemicals has great mids and drums but also bass extends to 20hz and has decent treble.

384 Kbit MP3
128 Kbit MP3
Original WAV