Forum Discussion
How to download tidal music to computer as mp3?
I just found a couple of interesting songs, albums and playlists on Tidal but I am unable to buy a premium as the credit card is not accepted by Tidal payment. Is there a safe way to let me download tidal music to computer as mp3 so I can play on my computer, smartphone and card?
I tried to record the music but the quality is poor and I can hear a lot of noise from the output mp3 file. I was recommended to buy a specific input recording card for doing this. However, I prefer a software solution as it is more convenient.
9 Replies
- JamieDimonIron Contributor
The free command line tool is fair enough to help you download tidal music to computer as mp3.
- MissouriOzarkIron Contributor
You're thinking about downloading Tidal music Windows PC, right? From what I’ve seen and experienced myself, if you're downloading Tidal through their official app or website, you're generally safe. Tidal's legit, and as long as you're sticking to their official channels, there's minimal risk.
However, if you're considering downloading from unofficial sites or third-party sources, that's where things get sketchy. Those might carry malware, viruses, or other nasty stuff that can mess up your computer or compromise your data. I’ve seen friends get into trouble trying to grab music from shady sites — it often leads to pop-ups, slowdowns, or worse.
Keep in mind: When you download Tidal music, always go straight to Tidal’s official app or website and avoid any sketchy links. Keep your antivirus updated, and maybe do a quick scan after downloading anything just to be safe. That way, you can enjoy your tunes without worry.
- calvinlidgeIron Contributor
Install RedSea free Tidal music downloader. RedSea is a command-line tool that lets you download music from Tidal in high-quality formats (MP3, FLAC, or MQA) without using the official Tidal app. It’s an open-source project designed for users who prefer terminal-based tools over graphical interfaces.
How RedSea Works
Connects to Tidal’s API (like the official app) to fetch stream URLs.
Decrypts & Downloads the audio in your chosen format.
Saves files locally with proper metadata.How to download songs from Tidal to computer
RedSea runs on Node.js, so install it first:
node --version npm --version
Install RedSea so you can download music from Tidal to mp3 on computer.
npm install -g redsea
Now, you can start downloading tidal music to computer.
redsea [Tidal-URL] --format mp3
Note:
- Requires a Tidal HiFi or HiFi Plus subscription for best quality (FLAC/MQA).
- Free accounts are limited to lower-quality streams.
- AlabamaCrimsonIron Contributor
It’s tempting to go the free route if you are going to download Tidal music to computer, but honestly, the risks and quality issues usually outweigh the benefits. If you’re serious about good sound and staying legit, it’s better to stick with Tidal’s official downloads or look into legit paid options. If you’re using free or unofficial software to rip Tidal music into MP3s or FLACs, the quality can get messed up — sometimes it’s not as high as the original, or the files might have weird artifacts. Plus, some of these tools can be sketchy, and you might accidentally download malware or junk on your PC.
Tidal offers super high-quality streams like Master (MQA), but when you use unofficial methods, you often sacrifice that top-tier sound. So, your downloaded MP3s might sound meh compared to the real thing. And finally, no official support or updates. Free tools often don’t get updates or support, so they might stop working if Tidal updates their app or streaming protocols.
Tidal’s official downloads are DRM-protected, meaning you can only listen to them in the Tidal app. Trying to download Tidal music with third-party tools can be shady legally — you might end up in hot water or at least risk breaching Tidal’s terms of service.
- harrietbmanIron Contributor
If you want to download Tidal music to your computer for offline playback outside the Tidal app, you have a few options—both official (DRM-protected) and unofficial (DRM-free). Here’s a breakdown:
1. Official Method (DRM-Protected, Requires Tidal Subscription)
Available for: Tidal HiFi Plus subscribers.
Limitations: Downloads are encrypted and can only be played in the Tidal app.
Steps:
- Install the Tidal desktop app (Windows/macOS) from Tidal’s website.
- Log in with your HiFi Plus account.
- Find the music (album, playlist, or track) you want to download.
- Click the download icon (↓) to save for offline listening.
- Access downloaded files in the Tidal app under "My Collection" → "Downloads."
Notes:
- Files are stored in a hidden encrypted folder (not directly accessible).
- Expire if your subscription ends.
2. Unofficial Methods (DRM-Free, for Personal Use)
If you want to download Tidal music as MP3 files for playback on any device, you'll need third-party Tidal music downloader tools.
Steps:
- Download and install the software.
- Log in with your Tidal account (HiFi Plus required for best quality).
- Select songs/albums/playlists and choose output format (MP3, FLAC, etc.).
- Download and save files to your computer.
Pros:
- Keeps metadata (artist, album art).
- Supports high-quality FLAC (if you have HiFi Plus).
- DelawareCanalIron Contributor
In my own experience, it’s just easier and safer to subscribe officially or use legit download Tidal music if available. Trying to do workarounds might seem tempting, but it’s often more trouble than it’s worth.
When you record or “capture” the music using tools like A0dacity or V0iceMeeter, the quality might not be as good as the original stream. You might get some loss of clarity, bitrate issues, or background noise. It’s a bit of a pain to set up and get good recordings. You have to play around with settings, make sure you’re capturing the right part, and hope no glitches happen.
Downloaded Tidal music this way aren’t usually as flexible — no proper tags, artwork, or metadata. Plus, they might not be compatible with all devices or players. Downloading third-party tools or using workarounds can sometimes expose your system to malware or security vulnerabilities if you’re not careful. If you’re trying to “save” music for offline listening, these recordings aren’t officially supported and can be unstable or incomplete.
- CaliforniaGoldenIron Contributor
Trying to free download Tidal music might seem tempting for a quick fix, but it’s often more trouble than it’s worth. The risk of malware, legal issues, poor quality, and hassle just isn’t worth it. If you love the music, the best way is to subscribe or find legit free options. There are a bunch of downsides you gotta watch out for.
Here’s the lowdown from my own experience and what I’ve heard from others:
- When I used screen recording or audio capture, the sound quality wasn’t as crisp as the original stream.
- Plus, some info like artist name, album art, and track info sometimes gets lost or messed up. It’s like having a blurry copy of a movie — not ideal.
- I’ve come across some sketchy sites and tools promising “free Tidal downloads,” but a lot of them are riddled with malware, adware, or viruses. Once, I accidentally clicked on a fake downloader — my antivirus went nuts, and I had to wipe my PC clean.
- Trying to record or use third-party tools to download Tidal music is a pain. It can be slow, buggy, and a lot of trial and error. Plus, you gotta sit there and wait for the recording to finish, then clean up the files. Not exactly fun.
- When you go the unofficial route, you don’t get new features, updates, or support. If something goes wrong, you’re on your own.
- GlorinemIron Contributor
Tidal is now a very popular music service for providing high quality tracks and albums. A lot of people want to download Tidal music to mp3, but the process depends on your subscription type and whether you want official downloads or recordings.
Official Tidal Downloads (Requires Subscription)
Tidal HiFi Plus Subscription:
- Only HiFi Plus (or older "Premium" plans) allows offline downloads for tracks, albums, or playlists.
- Downloads are encrypted (DRM-protected) and can only be played in the Tidal app (not transferable).
Download Songs from Tidal Music:
- Open the Tidal desktop app (Windows/macOS).
- Find the music you want (album, playlist, or track).
- Click the download icon (downward arrow) to save for offline listening.
Download Quality
- HiFi (FLAC, 16-bit/44.1kHz)
- Master (MQA, up to 24-bit/96kHz) – Requires Tidal desktop app and compatible DAC.
By the way, if you want DRM-free files (MP3/FLAC) to play outside Tidal, you'll need third-party tools to help you download tidal music to computer.
- ArkansasQuapawIron Contributor
Hey! So, you're looking to download Tidal music to computer for free, huh? Honestly, I gotta say, snagging music from Tidal without paying isn’t straightforward because it’s a paid service, and they’ve got some solid protections in place. That said, here’s the scoop based on what I know and some tricks people often talk about.
Common methods of downloading Tidal music to computer:
1. Screen Recording
Play the song on Tidal and record your screen with audio using tools like OBS or Camtesia. It’s a bit clunky and reduces quality, but it works in a pinch.2. Audio Capture Software
Use software like Aud0city or V0iceMeeter to record the audio directly from your system when you play Tidal. Again, quality might not be perfect, and it’s a bit of a workaround.3. Third-party Tidal Downloaders
There are some tools online claiming to download Tidal music as MP3s. I’ve heard of programs like Aodials, Tidal Media D0wnloader, etc., but beware—they’re often shady, might contain malware, and violate Tidal’s terms.Honestly, I’d say the safest and best way is to subscribe properly or listen online. If you’re just after a quick, informal way to save music, screen recording or audio capture can work, but it’s not perfect or fully legal.