Have you ever noticed the mysterious symbol "plus» next to music file names, on audio equipment, or in track descriptions? For example, FLAC+, HD+ or 320+ kbps? This sign is far from random - it signals increased sound quality, additional functions, or even specific encoding formats. For car enthusiasts who are passionate about in-car audio, understanding these nuances can dramatically change the way they experience music while driving.
In this article we will figure out what exactly is hidden behind the “a plus in music" - from technical standards to marketing gimmicks. You will learn how to distinguish real sound improvement from empty promises, what formats you should choose for car audio, and why sometimes “plus” may not mean what you expect. And also how this symbol is used in multimedia systems of modern cars, from Apple CarPlay up to Android Auto.
1. “Plus” as a quality marker: formats and bit rates
Let's start with the most obvious: the symbol "+" is often added to the names of audio formats or bitrates to emphasize their superiority over the standard versions. For example:
- 🎵 FLAC+ - usually means files in the format Free Lossless Audio Codec, but with additional processing (for example, increased bit depth or sampling frequency).
- 📀 CD Quality+ - marketing designation for tracks with a higher bitrate
1411 kbps(Audio CD standard). - 🔊 320+ kbps - MP3 files encoded with a bitrate higher than standard
320 kbps(although technically MP3 does not support values above this threshold).
It is important to understand that a “plus” does not always guarantee real improvement. For example, MP3 320+ kbps may simply be a re-encoded track without adding new data. But FLAC 24-bit/96kHz+ truly offers extended dynamic range, which is critical for high-quality car audio systems.
How to check real quality? Use programs like Spek or Foobar2000 with plugin Bitrate Viewer. They visualize the spectrum of the sound and show whether the high frequencies are cut off (which often happens in “fake” HD+ tracks).
If your radio supports USB Audio Class 2.0, she will be able to reproduce FLAC+ and DSD without loss. Check this in the device instructions.
2. “Plus” in album and single titles: what does it mean?
Sometimes "+” appears directly in the titles of music releases. For example, album Ed Sheeran — «+» (Plus) or single Calvin Harris — «+44». In such cases, the symbol has nothing to do with the sound - it is part of the decoration or semantic load:
- 📌 Symbolism: U Ed Sheeran “+” denoted a transition to a new stage of his career (the album was released after his breakthrough).
- 🌍 Geographical references: “+44” is the UK telephone code, which emphasized the artist’s British origin.
- 🔄 Remasters and re-releases: For example, Pink Floyd — «The Dark Side of the Moon (2011 Remaster+)», where "+" indicates bonus tracks.
In the context of car audio, such albums are interesting because they remasters often contain improved mixing - clearer bass and an expanded stereo effect, which is well manifested in high-quality acoustics in the car.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the “plus” in the album title with technical designations! For example, Tidal HiFi+ is a streaming service with support MQA and Dolby Atmos, not just an album.
3. Car audio and “plus”: what’s hidden in multimedia systems
In modern cars the symbol "+"can occur in different contexts:
- Sound Modes: For example, Bass+ in radios Pioneer or Sony - This is a function of enhancing low frequencies without distortion.
- Connections: USB+ or Aux+ indicate ports that support high bitrates (up to
24-bit/192kHz). - Proprietary technologies: Harman Kardon Logic 7+ — an improved version of the surround sound system for cars.
A particularly useful feature Bass+ for owners of cars with factory acoustics: it compensates for weak low frequencies without the need to add a subwoofer. However, its abuse can lead to overloading of speakers and their failure.
| Technology | Manufacturer | What does "plus" give? |
|---|---|---|
| Bass+ | Pioneer, JVC | 3-6 dB bass boost without distortion |
| Sound+ | Sony XAV-AX | Automatic equalizer adjustment to interior acoustics |
| USB+ | Alpine, Kenwood | Support FLAC and DSD via USB |
| DSP+ | Helix, Audison | Advanced digital audio processor settings |
How to enable Bass+ mode on Pioneer?
1. Go to Settings → Sound → Bass Boost. 2. Select the gain level (Low/Medium/High). 3. For models with DSP adjust the cutoff frequency (recommended 80–100 Hz).
4. “Plus” in streaming services: Tidal, Apple Music, Qobuz
Streaming platforms actively use "+" to indicate premium plans with enhanced audio:
- 🎧 Tidal HiFi+: Support MQA (up to
24-bit/384kHz) and Dolby Atmos. - 🍎 Apple Music Lossless+: Tracks in ALAC up to
24-bit/192kHz(but requires an external DAC for full playback). - 🎵 Qobuz Sublime+: Discounts on purchases FLAC-albums + access to exclusive releases.
For car audio, it is critical to understand that even if you connect your phone via Bluetooth, you will not get full quality HiFi+ - you need either a wired connection (USB-C → Aux), or specialized adapters (for example, iFi Audio GO bar).
⚠️ Attention: In machines with factory-installed systems (e.g. BMW iDrive 7+) streaming Tidal HiFi+ can automatically lower the bitrate to 320 kbps due to Bluetooth codec limitations AAC.
Use a wired connection (USB or Aux)|Disable Bluetooth|Install a DAC (for example, DragonFly Red)|Check bitrate in the application Tidal
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5. “Plus” in equipment: amplifiers, DACs, acoustics
Car audio manufacturers also like to add “+» to device names. What does this mean in practice?
- 🔋 Class D+ Amplifiers: Increased efficiency (up to
95%) and low-impedance load support (1 ohm). - 🎛️ ESS Saber+ DACs: Chips ES9038PRO+ with improved signal-to-noise ratio (
130 dB). - 🔊 Hybrid+ speakers: Combination of neodymium magnets and Kevlar cones for clear sound.
For example, amplifier Alpine PDX-V9+ different from the base model PDX-V9 presence of built-in DSP and support 3-way systems. A DAC AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt+ has improved noise filtering, which is critical for noisy automotive environments.
How to choose? Focus on real technical parameters, and not on marketing “advantages”. For example, if the amplifier promises Class D+, check it out THD+N (distortion) - it should be lower 0.05%.
6. Myths and pitfalls: when “plus” does not mean improvement
Not all designations with "+» live up to expectations. Here are the most common traps:
- 🚫 MP3 320+ kbps: Generally this is normal
320 kbps, resaved with a different tag. - 🚫 HD+ Audio on cheap radios: Often this is just an equalizer with presets.
- 🚫 Premium+ cables: Overpriced for “golden” connectors that do not affect the sound.
To avoid falling for tricks, remember:
⚠️ Attention: There are only three things that really improve the sound: source material (for example, FLAC 24-bit), quality equipment (DAC, amplifier) and correct setting (cabin acoustics, equalizer).
If you see a "plus" in a device name or format, always look for technical specifications. Without them, it's just marketing.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the “plus” in music
🔍 Why is the sound from USB better in some cars than via Bluetooth, even if the bitrate is the same?
Bluetooth uses compression (codecs SBC, AAC or aptX), which degrades quality. USB transfers data losslessly if the radio supports USB Audio Class 2.0.
🎧 Is it possible to hear the difference between FLAC and FLAC+ on the factory radio?
Most likely not. Factory acoustics rarely reproduce frequencies higher 16 kHz, and the difference between FLAC 16-bit and 24-bit+ manifests itself precisely in the ultra-high range. For a full experience, you need an external DAC and high-quality speakers.
🔊 What is better for car audio: Tidal HiFi+ or local FLAC-files?
Local FLAC-files are more reliable - they do not depend on the quality of the connection and are not compressed during transmission. However Tidal HiFi+ more convenient for streaming if you have unlimited Internet and a good DAC in your car.
🚗 Does the “plus” in the name of the radio affect its compatibility with Android Auto?
No, this is marketing. Compatibility varies by version Android Auto (wireless or wired) and the availability of appropriate ports (USB-C+ may only mean support for fast charging).
💰 Is it worth overpaying for equipment with a “plus” in the name?
Only if the technical characteristics justify the difference. For example, amplifier Class D+ with THD 0.01% really better than the base model with THD 0.1%. But you shouldn’t pay for a “premium” gold-plated cable - it doesn’t affect the sound.