# How to Get the Best Audio Quality on YouTube Music Tips to enhance audio quality on YouTube Music. - **Source:** [Engadget](https://www.engadget.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-26 - **Topic:** [Product Management](https://brifing.si/c/product) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/ca51141f-a0b7-4a26-ad62-e4ff754e5748 ## YouTube Music and Audio Quality YouTube Music doesn't offer the best sound quality, even for Premium subscribers. For lossless audio, rivals like Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal are better options. However, YouTube Music has advantages like unofficial uploads, live performances, remixes, and rare tracks. ## Default Settings and Limitations By default, YouTube Music uses the Normal bitrate setting, which maxes out at 128 kbps. This is fine for conserving data but not for a high-quality listening experience. The service's highest setting is 256 kbps, which sounds noticeably cleaner, especially with good headphones or speakers. ## Premium Subscription Requirement To use higher bitrate on YouTube Music, you need to subscribe to YouTube Music Premium (starting at $12 monthly) or YouTube Premium (starting at $16 monthly). Otherwise, you're capped at the Normal bitrate. ## Settings on Android and iOS The streaming settings are in slightly different places on Android and iOS. However, the options are identical. Accessing these settings can enhance audio quality. ## Bitrate Change for Downloaded Music There's a caveat for downloaded music: Previously downloaded tracks aren't automatically upgraded. To switch them to 256 kbps, you need to remove the old downloads and download them again. This can be done in bulk or individually. ## Conclusion and Recommendations Enhancing audio quality on YouTube Music is possible, especially with a strong connection and a decent data plan. With a Premium subscription and the right settings, you can enjoy a cleaner and more enjoyable listening experience. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.engadget.com/2221561/how-to-get-youtube-music-best-audio-quality/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._