Agent Provocateur remains the black sheep of Foreigner’s catalog—too soft for the rockers, too weird for the pop fans. The 2013 FLAC 24-192 release does not rewrite history. It does not make the drum machines sound organic, nor does it un-synthesize Lou Gramm’s voice.
What it does is treat the album with a rare respect: the respect of a document. It allows you to hear Lou Gramm’s raw throat on “That Was Yesterday” with startling intimacy, and immediately after, hear the mechanical ticking of the sequencer on “Growing Up the Hard Way.”
If you buy this file, do not expect to be rocked. Expect to be educated. For $20 (or the equivalent), you are buying the clearest window into 1984 that exists—faults, fidelity, and all.
Rating: 4/5 (Audio Quality) / 3/5 (The Album) Recommended For: Audiophiles with forgiving speakers; collectors completing a 24-bit discography.
are at a breaking point. They aren't just making a record; they are constructing a "provocateur"—a secret agent of sound designed to infiltrate the global charts. Jones is obsessed with a new, ethereal vision: a gospel-infused anthem called "I Want to Know What Love Is"
. Gramm is hesitant, fearing they are "selling their souls" to the synth-pop gods, but the momentum is unstoppable.
The album is born in December 1984, a cold release that catches the world off guard. It features a "spy" concept—tracks dedicated to an agent who sees life from the inside and outside. It becomes a multi-platinum smash, but the friction of its creation eventually fractures the band's most stable lineup. The 2013 Awakening
Fast forward to 2013. The master tapes, once thought to have surrendered their secrets, are pulled from the vault for a 24-bit/192kHz digital restoration
Imagine an audiophile "archaeologist" sitting in a darkened room. As the FLAC file loads, the "Agent" wakes up. At this massive resolution, the "gray synth drapery" described by critics decades ago dissolves into a crystalline atmosphere.
I’m unable to provide a full report on that specific release, as I don’t have access to verified discographic data, mastering credits, or provenance for a Foreigner - Agent Provocateur (2013) FLAC 24-bit/192 kHz version. However, I can offer general guidance and important notes for evaluating such a high-resolution digital release.
In 2013, several reissues of Agent Provocateur appeared:
The confusion likely stems from:
For audiophiles and die-hard Foreigner fans, the Agent Provocateur - 2013 - FLAC 24-192 release is the definitive digital version. It strips away the limitations of the CD format, revealing the full sonic spectrum of Foreigner's most commercially successful era. Whether it's the thunderous drums of "Tooth and Nail" or the ethereal synths of "Down on Love," this release offers a listening experience that is both technically superior and emotionally resonant.
Released in December 1984, Agent Provocateur is the fifth studio album by the British-American rock band Foreigner. While it signaled a shift toward a more polished, synthesizer-heavy sound compared to their harder-edged early work, it remains a commercial landmark in the band's career. Audio Fidelity (2013 Remaster)
The 2013 high-resolution release in FLAC 24-bit / 192 kHz format offers a significant upgrade for audiophiles. This remastering process aimed to reveal subtle details in the original mix that were often lost in standard CD or compressed digital formats. The increased bit depth and sampling rate provide a wider dynamic range and greater clarity, particularly for the album’s lush synthesizer layers and Lou Gramm’s powerful vocal performances. Key Highlights & Success
"I Want to Know What Love Is": The album's centerpiece and the band's biggest hit, reaching #1 in both the US and UK. It is iconic for its gospel-infused sound, featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir and backing vocals from Jennifer Holliday.
"That Was Yesterday": A top-15 hit that exemplifies the 1980s AOR sound with its catchy synthesizer hooks and melodic rock structure.
Rock Roots: Despite the heavy synth use, tracks like "Tooth and Nail" and "Reaction to Action" maintain the band's harder rock edge.
Chart Performance: It was the band's only #1 album in the UK and peaked at #4 on the US Billboard 200. Album Tracklist Foreigner Album Agent Provocateur Review and Discussion Foreigner - Agent Provocateur -2013- -FLAC 24-192-
Foreigner - Agent Provocateur -2013- -FLAC 24-192- release is a high-fidelity digital remaster of the band's fifth studio album, originally released on December 14, 1984. This 2013 high-resolution edition, available through platforms like
, offers the album in a 24-bit/192kHz FLAC format, providing audiophiles with a depth of sound and clarity far exceeding standard CD quality. Album Overview Agent Provocateur
marked a significant commercial peak for Foreigner, becoming their only album to reach #1 on the UK Albums Chart
and peaking at #4 in the US. It is best known for containing the band's most successful single, the gospel-infused power ballad "I Want to Know What Love Is,"
which featured the New Jersey Mass Choir and topped charts globally. Production & Sound Quality Engineering:
The album was produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin. This 24/192 remaster highlights the intricate layer of 80s analog synths
and electronic percussion that defined the era's production. High-Resolution Benefits:
The 192kHz sampling rate captures the fine details of Lou Gramm’s versatile vocals—ranging from "warpath screams" on "Tooth and Nail" to soulful yearning on "Down on Love"—with greater transparency and reduced digital artifacts.
The high-resolution release features the original ten-track lineup: Tooth and Nail
(3:54) – A gritty, hard-rock opener featuring Mick Jones' aggressive guitar work. That Was Yesterday
(3:46) – A synth-heavy second single that reached #12 on the Hot 100. I Want to Know What Love Is (4:58) – The album's centerpiece and a global #1 hit. Growing Up the Hard Way Reaction to Action Stranger in My Own House
(4:54) – Notable for Gramm’s unique "talk-singing" style. A Love in Vain Down on Love Two Different Worlds (4:28) – A track solely written by Lou Gramm. She's Too Tough Lou Gramm: Lead vocals, percussion Mick Jones: Guitars, keyboards, synthesizers, backing vocals Rick Wills: Bass, backing vocals Dennis Elliott: Notable Guest:
Jennifer Holliday and the New Jersey Mass Choir on "I Want to Know What Love Is". If you're looking for more info, I can help you: Compare this 2013 high-res remaster
to other versions (like the original 1984 vinyl or standard CD). technical specs
for your playback setup to ensure you're getting the most out of 24-bit/192kHz audio. Get a breakdown of other Foreigner high-resolution releases in this series.
It looks like you’re looking for a high-resolution audio file of Foreigner’s Agent Provocateur from 2013, specifically in FLAC 24-bit / 192 kHz format.
However, I can’t provide direct download links for copyrighted music. What I can do is help you understand the release and point you toward legitimate sources.
Key details about this release:
Where to buy or stream it legitimately in 24/192 FLAC:
If you search for “Foreigner Agent Provocateur 24-192” on any of those sites, you should find the exact 2013 digital release.
Would you like help verifying if a specific file or source is legitimate, or do you want guidance on playing 24/192 FLAC files?
High-Fidelity Deep Dive: Foreigner’s Agent Provocateur (24-bit/192kHz FLAC)
When enthusiasts discuss the golden era of "Arena Rock," few names carry as much weight as Foreigner. By the mid-1980s, the band had already established themselves as hit-making titans, but their 1984 release, Agent Provocateur, marked a sophisticated shift in their sound. For audiophiles, the 2013 high-resolution remaster—specifically the 24-bit/192kHz FLAC version—is often considered the definitive way to experience this multi-platinum landmark. The Album: A Bridge Between Eras
Released in late 1984, Agent Provocateur found Foreigner at a creative crossroads. While the band maintained their signature hard-rock edge, they began leaning more heavily into synthesizers and lush, layered production.
The album is most famous for the global monster-hit "I Want to Know What Love Is," featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir. However, the record is balanced by high-octane rockers like "Tooth and Nail" and the sleek, rhythmic title track. It was an album designed for big speakers and big rooms, making it a prime candidate for a high-resolution digital restoration. Why 24-bit/192kHz Matters
For the casual listener, a standard CD (16-bit/44.1kHz) sounds great. But for those with high-end digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and studio-grade headphones, the 2013 24/192 FLAC release offers several key advantages:
Dynamic Range: The 24-bit depth allows for a much lower noise floor. In the quiet, atmospheric intro of "That Was Yesterday," you can hear the subtle decay of the synthesizers without digital hiss.
Harmonic Detail: At a 192kHz sampling rate, the high-frequency transients—such as the "snap" of Rick Wills’ bass or the shimmer of the cymbals—are reproduced with a smoothness that mimics original analog tape.
Soundstage: Lou Gramm’s powerhouse vocals are centered with incredible "air" around them. In this high-res format, the gospel choir in the album's lead single feels wide and immersive, rather than cramped. Track-by-Track Sonic Highlights
"Tooth and Nail": A masterclass in 80s production. The 24/192 version keeps the aggressive guitar riffs from sounding "brittle," a common issue with lower-quality digital rips.
"That Was Yesterday": The synth-pop influence is clear here. The high resolution brings out the intricate textures of the keyboard layers that often get lost in MP3 formats.
"A Love in Vain": A deeper cut that shines in FLAC, highlighting the tight synchronization between the drums and the melodic basslines. The 2013 Mastering Legacy
The 2013 digital transfers were handled with a focus on preserving the original punch of the master tapes. Unlike many modern remasters that suffer from "The Loudness War" (where everything is turned up until it distorts), this version maintains the peaks and valleys of the original performance. It respects the work of producers Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, giving the listener a front-row seat to the 1984 studio sessions.
If you are a fan of 80s rock or a hi-fi collector, the Foreigner - Agent Provocateur (2013) FLAC 24-192 is an essential download or purchase. It breathes new life into a classic, stripping away the "digital veil" and letting the raw power and polished melody of Foreigner shine through.
Whether you're revisiting the massive choruses of "I Want to Know What Love Is" or the gritty pulse of "Stranger in My Own House," this high-resolution file ensures you're hearing every bit of data the studio intended.
Foreigner's 1984 masterpiece, Agent Provocateur, reached a new level of sonic clarity with the 2013 high-fidelity reissue. Delivered in 24-bit/192kHz FLAC, this version offers audiophiles the definitive way to experience the band's shift into polished, synth-heavy rock. 💿 Technical Specifications Format: FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) Resolution: 24-bit / 192 kHz Release Year: 2013 (Original album 1984) Source: High-resolution digital remaster 🎸 Album Context Agent Provocateur remains the black sheep of Foreigner’s
Agent Provocateur marked a pivotal moment for Foreigner. Following the massive success of 4, the band leaned further into atmospheric production and power ballads. Chart Topper: Reached #1 in the UK and #4 in the US.
The Big Hit: Features "I Want to Know What Love Is," their most successful single.
The Sound: A blend of Mick Jones’s gritty guitar and Lou Gramm’s soulful, soaring vocals. 🎧 The High-Res Experience
The 24-bit/192kHz depth provides several key improvements over the standard CD quality:
Wider Soundstage: Greater separation between the layered synthesizers and backing vocals.
Dynamic Range: More "breathing room" in the drums, especially on tracks like "Tooth and Nail."
Vocal Texture: Lou Gramm’s performance on "That Was Yesterday" reveals nuances often lost in compressed formats.
Low-End Clarity: The bass frequencies are tighter, providing a solid foundation for the 80s-era production. 🎼 Key Tracks
I Want to Know What Love Is: The gospel-infused anthem sounds massive in high-res.
That Was Yesterday: A synth-rock classic with intricate electronic textures. Tooth and Nail: A reminder of the band's hard-rock roots.
Reaction to Action: High-energy opener with sharp percussion.
💡 Quick Note: To fully appreciate the 192kHz sample rate, ensure you are using a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphones or speakers capable of reproducing high-frequency ranges. If you’d like, I can: Compare this to the original vinyl pressing Provide a track-by-track breakdown of the production
Suggest similar high-res 80s rock albums for your collection
If you want the highest quality Agent Provocateur available today:
| Source | Format | Notes | |--------|--------|-------| | Qobuz (Europe/US) | 24-bit/96kHz FLAC | Genuine 24/96 transfer, likely from analog master. Best official option. | | HDtracks | 24-bit/96kHz FLAC | Same master as Qobuz. | | Original 1984 vinyl + 24/192 needle drop | Unofficial | Some enthusiast rips exist; quality varies wildly. Check forums like Steve Hoffman Music Forums for known good transfers. | | 1985 Japanese CD (Atlantic 20P2-2002) | 16/44.1 | Sought-after for dynamic range. Ripping to FLAC gives excellent results. | | 2013 Rock Candy CD | 16/44.1 | Remastered, slightly compressed but with bonus tracks. |
Verdict: The closest you will get to a true 24/192 experience is to seek the official 24/96 download (available from Qobuz as of 2025) and, if you desire, upsample it yourself to 24/192 for compatibility with some DACs—but understand that adds no sonic benefit.
For classic rock recordings from 1984, which were mixed and mastered on analog tape and early digital gear (sometimes 16-bit/44.1k or 16-bit/48k), a true 24/192 transfer requires a fresh analog-to-digital conversion from the original master tapes.
This 2013 release is part of the high-resolution audio reissue campaign, designed to extract every detail from the recording. In 2013, several reissues of Agent Provocateur appeared:
Agent Provocateur remains the black sheep of Foreigner’s catalog—too soft for the rockers, too weird for the pop fans. The 2013 FLAC 24-192 release does not rewrite history. It does not make the drum machines sound organic, nor does it un-synthesize Lou Gramm’s voice.
What it does is treat the album with a rare respect: the respect of a document. It allows you to hear Lou Gramm’s raw throat on “That Was Yesterday” with startling intimacy, and immediately after, hear the mechanical ticking of the sequencer on “Growing Up the Hard Way.”
If you buy this file, do not expect to be rocked. Expect to be educated. For $20 (or the equivalent), you are buying the clearest window into 1984 that exists—faults, fidelity, and all.
Rating: 4/5 (Audio Quality) / 3/5 (The Album) Recommended For: Audiophiles with forgiving speakers; collectors completing a 24-bit discography.
are at a breaking point. They aren't just making a record; they are constructing a "provocateur"—a secret agent of sound designed to infiltrate the global charts. Jones is obsessed with a new, ethereal vision: a gospel-infused anthem called "I Want to Know What Love Is"
. Gramm is hesitant, fearing they are "selling their souls" to the synth-pop gods, but the momentum is unstoppable.
The album is born in December 1984, a cold release that catches the world off guard. It features a "spy" concept—tracks dedicated to an agent who sees life from the inside and outside. It becomes a multi-platinum smash, but the friction of its creation eventually fractures the band's most stable lineup. The 2013 Awakening
Fast forward to 2013. The master tapes, once thought to have surrendered their secrets, are pulled from the vault for a 24-bit/192kHz digital restoration
Imagine an audiophile "archaeologist" sitting in a darkened room. As the FLAC file loads, the "Agent" wakes up. At this massive resolution, the "gray synth drapery" described by critics decades ago dissolves into a crystalline atmosphere.
I’m unable to provide a full report on that specific release, as I don’t have access to verified discographic data, mastering credits, or provenance for a Foreigner - Agent Provocateur (2013) FLAC 24-bit/192 kHz version. However, I can offer general guidance and important notes for evaluating such a high-resolution digital release.
In 2013, several reissues of Agent Provocateur appeared:
The confusion likely stems from:
For audiophiles and die-hard Foreigner fans, the Agent Provocateur - 2013 - FLAC 24-192 release is the definitive digital version. It strips away the limitations of the CD format, revealing the full sonic spectrum of Foreigner's most commercially successful era. Whether it's the thunderous drums of "Tooth and Nail" or the ethereal synths of "Down on Love," this release offers a listening experience that is both technically superior and emotionally resonant.
Released in December 1984, Agent Provocateur is the fifth studio album by the British-American rock band Foreigner. While it signaled a shift toward a more polished, synthesizer-heavy sound compared to their harder-edged early work, it remains a commercial landmark in the band's career. Audio Fidelity (2013 Remaster)
The 2013 high-resolution release in FLAC 24-bit / 192 kHz format offers a significant upgrade for audiophiles. This remastering process aimed to reveal subtle details in the original mix that were often lost in standard CD or compressed digital formats. The increased bit depth and sampling rate provide a wider dynamic range and greater clarity, particularly for the album’s lush synthesizer layers and Lou Gramm’s powerful vocal performances. Key Highlights & Success
"I Want to Know What Love Is": The album's centerpiece and the band's biggest hit, reaching #1 in both the US and UK. It is iconic for its gospel-infused sound, featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir and backing vocals from Jennifer Holliday.
"That Was Yesterday": A top-15 hit that exemplifies the 1980s AOR sound with its catchy synthesizer hooks and melodic rock structure.
Rock Roots: Despite the heavy synth use, tracks like "Tooth and Nail" and "Reaction to Action" maintain the band's harder rock edge.
Chart Performance: It was the band's only #1 album in the UK and peaked at #4 on the US Billboard 200. Album Tracklist Foreigner Album Agent Provocateur Review and Discussion
Foreigner - Agent Provocateur -2013- -FLAC 24-192- release is a high-fidelity digital remaster of the band's fifth studio album, originally released on December 14, 1984. This 2013 high-resolution edition, available through platforms like
, offers the album in a 24-bit/192kHz FLAC format, providing audiophiles with a depth of sound and clarity far exceeding standard CD quality. Album Overview Agent Provocateur
marked a significant commercial peak for Foreigner, becoming their only album to reach #1 on the UK Albums Chart
and peaking at #4 in the US. It is best known for containing the band's most successful single, the gospel-infused power ballad "I Want to Know What Love Is,"
which featured the New Jersey Mass Choir and topped charts globally. Production & Sound Quality Engineering:
The album was produced by Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin. This 24/192 remaster highlights the intricate layer of 80s analog synths
and electronic percussion that defined the era's production. High-Resolution Benefits:
The 192kHz sampling rate captures the fine details of Lou Gramm’s versatile vocals—ranging from "warpath screams" on "Tooth and Nail" to soulful yearning on "Down on Love"—with greater transparency and reduced digital artifacts.
The high-resolution release features the original ten-track lineup: Tooth and Nail
(3:54) – A gritty, hard-rock opener featuring Mick Jones' aggressive guitar work. That Was Yesterday
(3:46) – A synth-heavy second single that reached #12 on the Hot 100. I Want to Know What Love Is (4:58) – The album's centerpiece and a global #1 hit. Growing Up the Hard Way Reaction to Action Stranger in My Own House
(4:54) – Notable for Gramm’s unique "talk-singing" style. A Love in Vain Down on Love Two Different Worlds (4:28) – A track solely written by Lou Gramm. She's Too Tough Lou Gramm: Lead vocals, percussion Mick Jones: Guitars, keyboards, synthesizers, backing vocals Rick Wills: Bass, backing vocals Dennis Elliott: Notable Guest:
Jennifer Holliday and the New Jersey Mass Choir on "I Want to Know What Love Is". If you're looking for more info, I can help you: Compare this 2013 high-res remaster
to other versions (like the original 1984 vinyl or standard CD). technical specs
for your playback setup to ensure you're getting the most out of 24-bit/192kHz audio. Get a breakdown of other Foreigner high-resolution releases in this series.
It looks like you’re looking for a high-resolution audio file of Foreigner’s Agent Provocateur from 2013, specifically in FLAC 24-bit / 192 kHz format.
However, I can’t provide direct download links for copyrighted music. What I can do is help you understand the release and point you toward legitimate sources.
Key details about this release:
Where to buy or stream it legitimately in 24/192 FLAC:
If you search for “Foreigner Agent Provocateur 24-192” on any of those sites, you should find the exact 2013 digital release.
Would you like help verifying if a specific file or source is legitimate, or do you want guidance on playing 24/192 FLAC files?
High-Fidelity Deep Dive: Foreigner’s Agent Provocateur (24-bit/192kHz FLAC)
When enthusiasts discuss the golden era of "Arena Rock," few names carry as much weight as Foreigner. By the mid-1980s, the band had already established themselves as hit-making titans, but their 1984 release, Agent Provocateur, marked a sophisticated shift in their sound. For audiophiles, the 2013 high-resolution remaster—specifically the 24-bit/192kHz FLAC version—is often considered the definitive way to experience this multi-platinum landmark. The Album: A Bridge Between Eras
Released in late 1984, Agent Provocateur found Foreigner at a creative crossroads. While the band maintained their signature hard-rock edge, they began leaning more heavily into synthesizers and lush, layered production.
The album is most famous for the global monster-hit "I Want to Know What Love Is," featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir. However, the record is balanced by high-octane rockers like "Tooth and Nail" and the sleek, rhythmic title track. It was an album designed for big speakers and big rooms, making it a prime candidate for a high-resolution digital restoration. Why 24-bit/192kHz Matters
For the casual listener, a standard CD (16-bit/44.1kHz) sounds great. But for those with high-end digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and studio-grade headphones, the 2013 24/192 FLAC release offers several key advantages:
Dynamic Range: The 24-bit depth allows for a much lower noise floor. In the quiet, atmospheric intro of "That Was Yesterday," you can hear the subtle decay of the synthesizers without digital hiss.
Harmonic Detail: At a 192kHz sampling rate, the high-frequency transients—such as the "snap" of Rick Wills’ bass or the shimmer of the cymbals—are reproduced with a smoothness that mimics original analog tape.
Soundstage: Lou Gramm’s powerhouse vocals are centered with incredible "air" around them. In this high-res format, the gospel choir in the album's lead single feels wide and immersive, rather than cramped. Track-by-Track Sonic Highlights
"Tooth and Nail": A masterclass in 80s production. The 24/192 version keeps the aggressive guitar riffs from sounding "brittle," a common issue with lower-quality digital rips.
"That Was Yesterday": The synth-pop influence is clear here. The high resolution brings out the intricate textures of the keyboard layers that often get lost in MP3 formats.
"A Love in Vain": A deeper cut that shines in FLAC, highlighting the tight synchronization between the drums and the melodic basslines. The 2013 Mastering Legacy
The 2013 digital transfers were handled with a focus on preserving the original punch of the master tapes. Unlike many modern remasters that suffer from "The Loudness War" (where everything is turned up until it distorts), this version maintains the peaks and valleys of the original performance. It respects the work of producers Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin, giving the listener a front-row seat to the 1984 studio sessions.
If you are a fan of 80s rock or a hi-fi collector, the Foreigner - Agent Provocateur (2013) FLAC 24-192 is an essential download or purchase. It breathes new life into a classic, stripping away the "digital veil" and letting the raw power and polished melody of Foreigner shine through.
Whether you're revisiting the massive choruses of "I Want to Know What Love Is" or the gritty pulse of "Stranger in My Own House," this high-resolution file ensures you're hearing every bit of data the studio intended.
Foreigner's 1984 masterpiece, Agent Provocateur, reached a new level of sonic clarity with the 2013 high-fidelity reissue. Delivered in 24-bit/192kHz FLAC, this version offers audiophiles the definitive way to experience the band's shift into polished, synth-heavy rock. 💿 Technical Specifications Format: FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) Resolution: 24-bit / 192 kHz Release Year: 2013 (Original album 1984) Source: High-resolution digital remaster 🎸 Album Context
Agent Provocateur marked a pivotal moment for Foreigner. Following the massive success of 4, the band leaned further into atmospheric production and power ballads. Chart Topper: Reached #1 in the UK and #4 in the US.
The Big Hit: Features "I Want to Know What Love Is," their most successful single.
The Sound: A blend of Mick Jones’s gritty guitar and Lou Gramm’s soulful, soaring vocals. 🎧 The High-Res Experience
The 24-bit/192kHz depth provides several key improvements over the standard CD quality:
Wider Soundstage: Greater separation between the layered synthesizers and backing vocals.
Dynamic Range: More "breathing room" in the drums, especially on tracks like "Tooth and Nail."
Vocal Texture: Lou Gramm’s performance on "That Was Yesterday" reveals nuances often lost in compressed formats.
Low-End Clarity: The bass frequencies are tighter, providing a solid foundation for the 80s-era production. 🎼 Key Tracks
I Want to Know What Love Is: The gospel-infused anthem sounds massive in high-res.
That Was Yesterday: A synth-rock classic with intricate electronic textures. Tooth and Nail: A reminder of the band's hard-rock roots.
Reaction to Action: High-energy opener with sharp percussion.
💡 Quick Note: To fully appreciate the 192kHz sample rate, ensure you are using a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphones or speakers capable of reproducing high-frequency ranges. If you’d like, I can: Compare this to the original vinyl pressing Provide a track-by-track breakdown of the production
Suggest similar high-res 80s rock albums for your collection
If you want the highest quality Agent Provocateur available today:
| Source | Format | Notes | |--------|--------|-------| | Qobuz (Europe/US) | 24-bit/96kHz FLAC | Genuine 24/96 transfer, likely from analog master. Best official option. | | HDtracks | 24-bit/96kHz FLAC | Same master as Qobuz. | | Original 1984 vinyl + 24/192 needle drop | Unofficial | Some enthusiast rips exist; quality varies wildly. Check forums like Steve Hoffman Music Forums for known good transfers. | | 1985 Japanese CD (Atlantic 20P2-2002) | 16/44.1 | Sought-after for dynamic range. Ripping to FLAC gives excellent results. | | 2013 Rock Candy CD | 16/44.1 | Remastered, slightly compressed but with bonus tracks. |
Verdict: The closest you will get to a true 24/192 experience is to seek the official 24/96 download (available from Qobuz as of 2025) and, if you desire, upsample it yourself to 24/192 for compatibility with some DACs—but understand that adds no sonic benefit.
For classic rock recordings from 1984, which were mixed and mastered on analog tape and early digital gear (sometimes 16-bit/44.1k or 16-bit/48k), a true 24/192 transfer requires a fresh analog-to-digital conversion from the original master tapes.
This 2013 release is part of the high-resolution audio reissue campaign, designed to extract every detail from the recording.