Question Linear PCM files v MP3 320kbps

[bigfish786]

you can tell i've got too much time on my hands these days!
A little experiment today, discovering what files my Marantz SACD will play through the front USB port via a 64GB flash drive. It turns out that it will play PCM files so i did a back to back test, and they are noticeably better in quality to the 320kbps MP3 files i have loaded.
question is, how many albums can i fit on a 64GB in LPCM ?
i've got over 500 albums on there at the moment, so i'm considering ripping a bunch again, as LPCM and swapping them out.
may as well while i'm sat here relaxing, enjoying the music.

 

[Al ears]

Bigfish’s Marantz has only one USB-A port for usb sticks - the one in front. And it doesn’t accept FLAC. There is only a USB-B port at the back for PC duty, and even with an adapter it won’t accept sticks.

Strange setup for a Marantz then who always recognised the benefits of DSD and the like.
Can it play any of the compressed file formats I wonder or is it just FLAC it has issues with?

 

[bigfish786]

The high res files are playable via the rear usb. But you need a computer connected to that.
whereas the front usb will play memory sticks and iPods.