In a lossless 16-bit or 24-bit FLAC format, listeners can isolate micro-details that disappear in standard streaming formats.
The term "FLAC" signifies that the audio file contains every single bit of data originally encoded during the mastering process, offering a completely lossless alternative to compressed MP3 files. The 2009 remaster holds a unique position in the reissue history of the album for several critical reasons: 1. Preservation of Original Dynamics vs. The Loudness War
Many listeners hear Thriller through compressed streaming formats like MP3 or AAC. Shifting to a FLAC file changes the entire listening experience. No Audio Compression michael jackson thriller 1982 remastered 2009 flac hot
While the 2009 remaster has its share of admirers, it has also been heavily criticized for falling victim to this trend. One scathing Amazon review deducted two stars, stating the version suffers from "overly compressed sound". The reviewer explains, "Like so many recordings of the past 20+ years, they've remastered the music louder. It essentially squishes the dynamics and changes the sound of the final mix". A BBC article from 2016 further analyzed this phenomenon, demonstrating how subsequent mixes of "Thriller" have become progressively "louder" due to dynamic range compression. A comparison of the original vinyl's dynamic range (an average DR of 15) with modern remasters (some with an average DR as low as 6) shows just how much dynamic life has been squeezed out of the music.
The iconic synthesizer bassline on "Baby Be Mine" and the driving electric bass on "Beat It" gain immense warmth and separation, sounding distinct rather than muddy. In a lossless 16-bit or 24-bit FLAC format,
From a sales perspective, Thriller is the world's best-selling album, with over 100 million copies sold, and is certified 38x Platinum. It spent an unparalleled 37 weeks at number one on the Billboard album charts. In the 1984 Grammy Awards, it won a record-breaking eight awards, including the prestigious Album of the Year. The album's success was amplified by iconic music videos for tracks like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and the epic 14-minute short film for the title track, "Thriller," which revolutionized the music industry.
This 2009 remaster wasn't just about the original album; it was often bundled with a treasure trove of bonus content. The Thriller 25 Deluxe Edition included remixes by contemporary artists like will.i.am, Fergie, Akon, and Kanye West, as well as demos, unreleased tracks like "For All Time," and even interviews with Quincy Jones. This made the release not just an audio upgrade but also a historical document, offering fans a deeper look into the album's creation. Preservation of Original Dynamics vs
Michael Jackson’s Thriller (1982) Remastered: 2009 FLAC – The Ultimate Audio Experience