Quantum Lite allows audio to be compressed using two different encoding algorithms, OPUS and aptX, each with different characteristics and suitable for different situations.
OPUS combines two very different algorithms. The first, called SILK, was created for Skype and was designed to work with voice signals only; the second, called CELT, was designed to handle higher bandwidth audio, such as music. OPUS is, therefore, an algorithm capable of adapting to various situations, achieving coding delays of less than 100ms, much lower than those that could be obtained with algorithms of the MPEG family.
aptX algorithm is less efficient at compressing the signal (i.e. requires a higher bit rate) but introduces less distortion (i.e. provides higher quality), in addition to obtaining coding delays of less than 30ms.
So, in what situations is it recommended to use each of the algorithms?
OPUS is undoubtedly the best option for conducting interviews or contributions in difficult situations, with poor coverage on LTE connections, as it allows us to lower the binary rate a lot without affecting the quality of the vocal audio. Even a value of 24kbps may be acceptable, which together with a transmission in diversity mode can achieve uninterrupted connections in very difficult scenarios.
On the contrary, when we have a high-bandwidth connection and we want to give the best possible audio quality, aptX is the best choice.
If you are already a Quantum Lite user, what do you think of the quality of these audio compression algorithms?