Listening to the 24-bit/192kHz transfer of Kick is a distinct experience compared to standard streaming. The opening bass riff of "Guns in the Sky" hits with a visceral punch, and the separation of instruments in "Need You Tonight" reveals production nuances often lost in compression.
The 2011 remaster was not a "loudness war" victim—meaning the audio wasn't overly compressed to be louder at the expense of dynamic range. Instead, it preserved the punch and breathing room of the original 1987 master, utilizing modern digital storage to present the audio with the utmost fidelity.
This high-res edition typically includes the original 12-track album, remastered from the analog tapes. Some digital retailers also offered it as part of a deluxe bundle alongside B-sides and live tracks, though the pure 24/192 stereo album remains the core attraction.
Kick is an anomaly. It spawned four US Top 10 singles ("Need You Tonight," "Devil Inside," "New Sensation," and "Never Tear Us Apart") without sacrificing the band's darker, alternative edge. The production is dense yet spacious, utilizing the "gated reverb" drum sounds of the era while layering synthesizers and guitar riffs in a way that demanded high-fidelity playback.
For years, the standard CD release (16-bit/44.1kHz) was the primary way fans consumed the album. While excellent, the dynamic range and subtle textures of the recording left many audiophiles wondering what lay beneath the digital ceiling of standard CD quality.
INXS: The Legendary Australian Rock Band
INXS, pronounced "in excess," is a renowned Australian rock band that formed in 1980 in Sydney. The band consisted of Michael Hutchence (lead vocals), Andrew Farriss (guitar, keyboards), Brad Gillstrap (guitar), Garry Gary Gary (bass), and Jon Farriss (drums). INXS is known for their unique blend of rock, funk, and new wave music, which captivated audiences worldwide.
The Album: Kick
Released in 1987, "Kick" is INXS's fifth studio album, and it's widely considered one of their best works. The album was produced by Chris Bailey and INXS, and it features some of the band's most popular songs, such as "Need You Tonight," "Never Let You Go," and "New Sensation." "Kick" was a massive commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.
2011 Re-release and FLAC 24/92
In 2011, INXS's discography, including "Kick," was re-released in high-definition formats, such as FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec). The 24/92 FLAC format refers to a digital audio format that offers high-quality, lossless audio with a sampling rate of 24 bits and a sample rate of 92 kHz. This format provides a superior listening experience compared to standard CD quality.
The Significance of High-Quality Audio
The re-release of "Kick" in 2011 in high-quality audio formats like FLAC 24/92 is significant for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. The improved sound quality allows listeners to appreciate the band's music in a new light, with more detailed and nuanced soundscapes. This is particularly notable for an album like "Kick," which features a rich and layered sound.
Why "Kick" Remains a Timeless Classic
"Kick" remains a timeless classic in the music world, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors. The album's well-crafted songwriting, memorable melodies, and catchy hooks have made it a staple of 80s rock music. Additionally, the band's energetic live performances and charismatic frontman, Michael Hutchence, helped to establish a loyal fan base.
Legacy and Impact
INXS's influence on the music industry is undeniable. The band's innovative blend of rock and funk has inspired numerous other artists, and their music continues to be featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. "Kick" has been certified 3x Platinum in the United States and has sold over 10 million copies worldwide.
Conclusion
The 2011 remaster of INXS's "Kick" is widely regarded as a pivotal release for audiophiles, offering a significant sonic upgrade over the original 1987 pressing.
This version is available in high-resolution digital formats, including 24-bit/192kHz FLAC
, which captures the intricate production of Chris Thomas and the sharp mixing of Bob Clearmountain with modern clarity The Skeptical Audiophile Release Details Original Album Release: October 12, 1987. 2011 Remaster Release:
Originally issued on CD and digital platforms on May 30, 2011. High-Res Availability:
While the 2011 remaster is standard for most digital stores, the 24-bit/192kHz FLAC inxs kick 2011 flac 24192 link
files were specifically released through audiophile-focused labels like WEA in 2014. Where to Purchase:
High-resolution digital files can be found on specialist platforms such as ProStudioMasters for approximately $17.99. ProStudioMasters Audio Quality & Critical Reception
The 2011 remastering process focused on "opening up" the soundstage. Reviewers have noted several key improvements: Frequency Range: A "sweeter" top end and deeper, punchier bass.
Greater midrange detail, allowing Michael Hutchence's vocal inflections to stand out more than on original CD pressings.
Unlike many "loudness war" remasters, this version is praised for retaining its dynamic punch without excessive compression. Track Listing (Standard Album) The remaster covers the original 12-track masterpiece: INXS, Kick in High-Resolution Audio - ProStudioMasters Add to Wishlist $ 17.99 Buy Album. ProStudioMasters
INXS – Kick – 12 x File (24bit-192kHz, FLAC, Album ... - Discogs
Searching for an "INXS Kick 2011 FLAC 24/192 link" usually leads to a story of high-fidelity obsession and the preservation of one of the 1980s' most iconic records. The Search for the "Ultimate" Sound
For audiophiles, the 2011 remaster of Kick represents a specific peak in the album's digital history. While the original 1987 release captured the "New Wave" energy of the time, the 2011 "Super Deluxe" reissue aimed to give Michael Hutchence’s vocals and the band's funk-rock rhythm section a modern clarity.
The 24-bit / 192kHz FLAC version is the "holy grail" for collectors because it offers:
Massive Dynamic Range: It captures the subtle nuances of the Fender Stratocaster riffs in "Need You Tonight" that standard CDs might compress.
The "Studio" Experience: At 192kHz, the audio resolution mimics the master tapes more closely than almost any other digital format. Why It’s Hard to Find Listening to the 24-bit/192kHz transfer of Kick is
Finding a direct link for this specific 2011 high-res file today is often a journey through digital archives and specialty stores. Over the years, newer versions—like the 30th Anniversary Dolby Atmos mix (2017)—have often replaced the 2011 files on mainstream storefronts like HDTracks or Qobuz. Where the Story Lives Today
If you are looking to hear this specific version, your best bet is usually:
Specialty Audiophile Sites: Check ProStudioMasters or 7digital, though availability varies by region.
Secondary Markets: Many fans still hunt for the physical 2011 Super Deluxe Edition box set, which contained the high-res files on DVD or Blu-ray, allowing them to "rip" their own pristine FLACs.
The quest for this specific file is really a tribute to the album's longevity—proving that even decades later, fans still want to hear "Never Tear Us Apart" as if they were standing right in the studio.
The original Kick sessions were recorded on analog tape at studios including Rhinoceros Recordings in Sydney and mastered by Bob Ludwig. The 2011 high-resolution transfer aimed to capture the full dynamic range of Michael Hutchence’s vocals, the punch of Garry Gary Beers’ bass, and the crisp attack of Kirk Pengilly’s saxophone and guitar.
Key technical benefits of the 24/192 FLAC edition:
In 2011, Universal Music revisited one of the most defining rock albums of the late 1980s—INXS’s diamond-certified masterpiece, Kick. Originally released in 1987, the album spawned global hits like “Need You Tonight,” “Devil Inside,” “New Sensation,” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” For audiophiles, the 2011 digital remaster presented a significant upgrade: a high-resolution FLAC release at 24-bit/192kHz.
The search for the "INXS Kick 2011 FLAC 24/192" speaks to a desire among music fans to hear music exactly as it was recorded, without the limitations of physical media or streaming compression. While physical formats like Vinyl and SACD have their proponents, the 24-bit/192kHz FLAC file remains a gold standard for digital playback, offering a sonic window into the masterpiece that is Kick.
That depends on your equipment and ears. Through a high-end DAC and revealing speakers or headphones, the 24/192 remaster of Kick offers subtle improvements: tighter low-end, more air around Hutchence’s voice, and less digital “glare” compared to the original CD. However, many listeners find 24/96 indistinguishable. The real upgrade over MP3 or standard CD is the 24-bit depth, which eliminates dither noise during quiet passages.