[notahaxor]

The author completely ignores infrasonics and writes under the incorrect assumption that our only perception of wave pressure comes from our eardrums.

I've never been able to enjoy listening to my favorite classical music on headphones or even smaller speakers, and it's largely because of the effect you describe.

At this point I'm resigned to preserving my treasured (and cumbersome) vinyl collections. Maybe if Apple comes up with some snazzy marketing term (e.g. "Retina") for 24/192 or even 24/92, and starts distributing it on iTunes, things might start to change.

[mdarens]

You don't need a higher sample rate to capture or play back infrasonic pressure waves, but most recordings are mastered to remove DC offset and rumble <20Hz, as reproducing those components requires specialized equipment, such as a rotary subwoofer.

[notahaxor]

Wouldn't the higher bit rate help though? I've long suspected my preference is largely due to the difference in mastering techniques more than any technical limitations.