SoundCloud Go offers an affordable subscription for music lovers, providing access to a vast library of tracks without ads and with offline playback options. While it lacks certain features like shared playlists and high audio quality, it remains focused on promoting independent artists. This service is ideal for those interested in discovering emerging talents rather than mainstream music. A 7-day free trial allows users to explore its offerings before committing.
Understanding SoundCloud Go
SoundCloud provides a variety of premium subscription options tailored for both music listeners and artists. For those who simply want to enjoy music, SoundCloud Go presents an economical way to dive into the streaming landscape. In this article, we’ll explore the features of this subscription and help you determine if it’s the right fit for your musical needs.
Key Features of SoundCloud Go
SoundCloud Go is the more budget-friendly of the two premium offerings from the popular German music streaming service. At just €5.99 per month, subscribers gain access to a substantial music library, although it’s worth noting that some full-length tracks are exclusive to the more premium SoundCloud Go+ version.
While some users may find these limitations unsatisfactory, SoundCloud has built its reputation on showcasing independent artists. Many renowned musicians, including Post Malone and Billie Eilish, launched their careers on this platform. The service even honors emerging talents each year with the ‘First on SoundCloud Artist Class,’ highlighting artists who show great potential.
The features included with SoundCloud Go are straightforward. Unlike other streaming services, it doesn’t offer shared playlists, song lyrics, or the highest audio quality. Here’s what you can expect:
- Access to a large selection of tracks
- Ad-free listening experience
- Offline playback options
While this may seem limited compared to competitors, SoundCloud has chosen to remain true to its unique identity. If you’re looking for a stronger alternative to platforms like Spotify, you might want to consider SoundCloud Go+.
SoundCloud’s playlists often spotlight independent artists, aligning with its underground ethos. Users can still find a diverse array of playlists categorized by genre or mood, with workout playlists being particularly popular.
Audio Quality Considerations
When it comes to audio quality, SoundCloud doesn’t emphasize lossless options like some other services do. Instead, they offer two levels: ‘Standard’ and ‘High Audio Quality.’ According to SoundCloud’s support page, high audio quality streams at 256 kilobits per second using AAC format, which is comparable to the 320 kbit/s found in conventional MP3s.
It’s not uncommon for artists to voice concerns regarding the sound quality on various forums, including Reddit. As a listener, your preference for audio quality will play a significant role in your experience. Unfortunately, SoundCloud does not stand out in the lossless audio department.
Is SoundCloud Go Right for You?
For anyone seeking a cost-effective entry into music streaming, SoundCloud Go offers a viable option. It serves as a ‘goldmine’ for discovering lesser-known artists and taps into a niche market that other services may overlook.
If mainstream music isn’t your primary concern and you enjoy exploring new sounds, SoundCloud Go might be an excellent choice for you. The subscription allows for uninterrupted music enjoyment without ads and includes offline playback, making it a unique offering tailored to specific user needs.
In conclusion, SoundCloud Go provides a solid foundation for music enthusiasts who appreciate independent artists. If this resonates with you, consider taking advantage of the 7-day free trial to experience everything SoundCloud Go has to offer.