Why measure IEMs?

The primary inquiry often revolves around finding the optimal-sounding IEM/Headphones within one's budget. This quest, however, is notably intricate, lacking a unanimous criterion for what constitutes superior sound quality in an IEM/Headphone. My exploration led me to the seminal work of the esteemed Sean E. Olive at Harman, whose research culminated in the development of the Harman curve. This curve serves as a benchmark for crafting IEMs/Headphones to ensure widespread listener satisfaction. Olive's insights are invaluable for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike; I particularly recommend delving into his article:

"The Perception and Measurement of Headphone Sound Quality: What Do Listeners Prefer?" By Sean E. Olive

Further investigation into Olive's perspectives, particularly his presentations at various forums, directed me to a white paper by Sonarworks titled "A New Headphone Tuning Standard". Interested readers can access the article via this link:

https://www.sonarworks.com/blog/research/white-paper

For those intrigued by the full white paper, it can be found here:

https://sonarworks-uploads.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/technology/White paper.pdf

The abstract of the study encapsulates its essence:

"Currently, each headphone manufacturer develops frequency response sound targets using proprietary methods. There is no dominant standard on how to measure headphone frequency response. The measurement equipment that is available on the market yields diverging results, and none matches human perception to a sufficient degree. Also, the headphones on the market exhibit very little consistency of frequency response, even within a single manufacturer's catalog. Furthermore, our research shows that user preferences are also varied and do not converge on one sound target, and in 78% of the cases, consumer experience can be enhanced through frequency response target personalization."

Essentially, achieving optimal sound quality entails identifying one's preferred sound curve, selecting an IEM/Headphone that closely aligns with it, and fine-tuning it to personal preference through Parametric Equalization. Given the absence of a standardized measurement approach, each manufacturer employs its unique methods, resulting in variability even within a single brand's product line. We are currently witnessing a golden age of IEMs, with high-quality options available at reasonable prices. It behooves us to discern and customize our listening experience. To facilitate this, investing in a personal measurement rig at the most reasonable cost becomes a logical step.

In addition, establishing our own standardized measurement criteria and rig will yield consistent results. Once we define our preferred curve using this rig, it can serve as the target curve for evaluating other IEMs. This empowers us to utilize Parametric Equalization to tailor the response of different IEMs to match our preferences. Therefore, I have resolved to proceed with this approach, recognizing its potential to enhance my listening experience.