To understand why the FLAC version is better, you must look at how digital audio handles data.
The reason this album specifically benefits from FLAC is the extreme level of detail producer Bob Rock insisted upon: metallica metallica the black album flac better
The kick drum retains its sharp click and distinct physical thump. To understand why the FLAC version is better,
The 2021 remaster is available in multiple tiers of FLAC, catering to different levels of audiophile commitment: natural sustain | Slight smearing
| Aspect | FLAC (16/44.1 or higher) | 320kbps MP3/AAC | |--------|----------------------------|------------------| | | Full, natural sustain | Slight smearing, “watery” artifacts | | Bass guitar (Jason Newsted) | Clear note definition in low mids | Loss of harmonic richness, muddiness | | Drum transients (Lars Ulrich) | Sharp attack, precise stereo imaging | Blunted attack, reduced stereo width | | Quiet intros (“Nothing Else Matters,” “The Unforgiven”) | Low-level detail (string noise, room ambience) | Noise floor modulation, possible audible cutoffs | | Loudness peaks (“Sad But True,” “Holier Than Thou”) | No clipping or pre-echo artifacts | Possible intersample peaks and distortion |