Qobuz, the pioneering French platform known for high-quality streaming and downloading, has just announced a global partnership with the renowned German jazz label ACT Music, further solidifying its position as the go-to destination for audiophiles and music lovers alike. This collaboration showcases the exceptional musical legacy of ACT Music, founded by Siggi Loch in 1992, and brings it front and center for a whole new generation of listeners.
Qobuz users will enjoy a curated selection of exclusive content, including playlists chosen by their in-house music experts, videos with iconic artists, and access to a treasure trove of ACT Music’s catalog in pristine 24-bit high-resolution quality. Oh, and let’s not forget about those download deals that’ll have jazz lovers clicking faster than you can say “playlists with actual substance.”
This move follows Qobuz’s history of teaming up with heavyweight labels like Blue Note, Deutsche Grammophon, and ECM Records, leaving rivals—looking at you, Tidal—scrambling to catch up. With a knack for high-quality, original content, Qobuz is doing what it does best—continuing to push the boundaries of audiophile music experiences.
Listeners will rediscover the legends of contemporary jazz like Nils Landgren, Wolfgang Haffner, Youn Sun Nah, Esbjörn Svensson Trio (E.S.T.), Michael Wollny, and many more who have shaped the label’s reputation. The partnership will expand across Qobuz’s platform, from streaming to their download store, with exclusive editorial content and up to 30% off select albums. It’s clear that Qobuz is continuing to innovate, while Tidal… well, they’re still trying to figure out how to keep subscribers happy.
Qobuz also recently opened the books on how it actually pays artists and while it provided some clarity — we’re still not sure how it moves the needle.
Marc Zisman, Qobuz’s Chief Music Officer, summed it up best: “ACT’s vision and Qobuz’s philosophy go hand-in-hand, making this collaboration a natural fit.” Meanwhile, ACT Music couldn’t be more thrilled about the global reach the partnership offers, allowing their artists and rich catalog to shine through with unmatched sound quality.
So, if you’re looking for the best in jazz—and quality that won’t leave you frustrated by buffering—Qobuz and ACT Music have got you covered. Tidal, you’ve got some catching up to do.
The Bottom Line
Qobuz is also making significant strides in international markets, expanding its reach in Canada and Japan. The platform’s growing presence in these regions shows that it’s not just about offering high-quality sound but also about tapping into diverse and discerning audiences.
As Qobuz thrives on global expansion, TIDAL’s attention seems to be elsewhere—like figuring out how to keep the rest of its staff intact after the company’s rocky end to 2024, which saw the firing of 100 employees. As Jack Dorsey works through the fallout of those cuts, Qobuz is busy proving that it’s got both the sound and the business savvy to stay ahead of the competition. Looks like one platform is on the rise while the other is just trying to keep it together.
For more information: ACT Qobuz Playlist
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Mike Cornell
April 18, 2025 at 11:42 am
I recently completed 30 day trials with both Tidal and Qobuz. The only advantage Tidal has at the moment is Tidal Connect, though I hear Qobuz ‘Connect’ is imminent. Regardless, I’ll be signing up for Qobuz. Their tastes are more aligned with mine and I love their extra features like their music magazine, interviews, audio coverage, downloads and more. The best streaming service out there right now.
Ian White
April 18, 2025 at 1:42 pm
Mike,
I have used both since inception and if I had to drop one…TIDAL gets lost. Qobuz sounds better, has more of my “music” and I like their format. And in regard to Qobuz ‘Connect’ being imminent…maybe. #munich
I also question if TIDAL survives long-term. It may have 3M users (compared to 300,000 for Qobuz), but they just fired 100 employees in November and have zero momentum. Apple Music is doing just fine and Spotify finally made a profit. A big one.
I’d be ok with Qobuz.
IW
Chris Boylan
April 18, 2025 at 5:33 pm
Qobuz is great, but they don’t have immersive audio yet either (i.e., Dolby Atmos Music) so I’m keeping both for now. If and when Qobuz has connect and Dolby Atmos, the choice will be clearer.
Ian White
April 18, 2025 at 7:33 pm
Chief,
So “Connect” is ‘coming’ after a certain event in the near future. Supposedly. Heard it from a guy. 🙂 My concern is the long-term financial stability of TIDAL. Almost a decade of giving them money and over 3,000 saved albums. I may have to transfer them over if things go south.
IW