Mikkel Christensen
Spotify has launched a new feature that could significantly change the listening experience for desktop users.
Spotify has launched a new feature that could significantly change the listening experience for desktop users.
The update is aimed especially at those who prioritize high audio quality.
However, the improvement comes with certain limitations that not everyone may be willing to accept.
Cleaner audio signal
According to MereMobil, Spotify is introducing “Exclusive Mode” on desktop.
The feature sends audio directly from the app to the audio hardware, bypassing the operating system’s processing.
This means disturbances such as jitter and noise can be reduced, potentially resulting in more precise sound.
Targeted at enthusiasts
The new feature is particularly relevant for users with advanced equipment such as DACs and studio monitors.
MereMobil reports that these users have previously experienced challenges getting a clean audio signal from Spotify due to operating system interference.
With Exclusive Mode, Spotify gains full control over output and can deliver sound directly to the hardware.
A clear downside
There is, however, a notable drawback to the feature.
When Exclusive Mode is enabled, other system sounds are blocked. This means notifications, games, and other audio cannot be heard simultaneously.
To get the most out of the feature, it is also recommended to disable options such as Automix, Crossfade, and EQ.
Limited availability
Exclusive Mode requires Spotify Premium and is currently only available on Windows.
Users with standard speakers or Bluetooth headphones are unlikely to notice a significant difference.
According to MereMobil, Spotify is working on a macOS version, but it has not yet been released.
Sources: MereMobil
