Scoring System Overview
All audio products are evaluated on a 10-point scale (0.0–10.0) with tenth-point increments. Scores reflect performance relative to price tier and current market competition, balancing objective technical measurements with subjective listening experience to provide comprehensive evaluations.
Score Calculation
Overall Score is weighted across four core categories:
- Sound Quality: 50%
- Value for Price: 20%
- Build Quality & Design: 20%
- Comfort & Fit: 10%
Score Interpretation Guide
```| Score Range | Rating | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9.0–10.0 | Exceptional | Best-in-class performance. Sets the standard for its category. Highly recommended. |
| 8.0–8.9 | Excellent | Outstanding performer with minimal compromises. Easy recommendation for most users. |
| 7.0–7.9 | Good | Solid choice with clear strengths that outweigh weaknesses. Recommended. |
| 6.0–6.9 | Above Average | Competent performance but lacks standout qualities. Consider alternatives. |
| 5.0–5.9 | Average | Acceptable baseline performance with notable compromises. |
| 4.0–4.9 | Below Average | Significant flaws impact usability. Proceed with caution. |
| 3.0–3.9 | Poor | Fundamental issues present. Not recommended. |
| 0.0–2.9 | Very Poor | Critical failures. Avoid. |
Testing Methodology
- Listening Duration: Minimum 10 hours of extended listening across multiple sessions
- Source Material: Diverse genre selection including classical, jazz, rock, electronic, vocal-focused, and orchestral recordings
- Equipment: Testing conducted with multiple source devices to assess pairing versatility
- Comparison: Direct A/B comparisons with similarly-priced competitors
Special Considerations
Purpose-Driven Evaluation
Products designed for specific applications (gaming, studio monitoring, bass-focused genres) are evaluated based on their intended purpose rather than universal audiophile standards.
Score Revisions
Scores may be updated when:
- New competitors significantly redefine price tier expectations
- Widespread quality control issues emerge
- Substantial price changes affect value proposition
- Long-term durability concerns are identified through community feedback
Review Philosophy
Transparency: This methodology is publicly available to ensure readers understand our evaluation process.
Honesty First: We highlight both strengths and weaknesses without sensationalism. No product is perfect.
Price Context: A $50 IEM is evaluated against $50 competitors, not $500 flagships. Value scoring reflects this reality.
Real-World Focus: Products are tested in practical use cases, not just ideal laboratory conditions.
Informed Opinion: These scores represent expert assessments informed by measurements, comparisons, and extensive listening experience—not absolute truths. Personal preference plays a role in audio enjoyment, and individual results may vary.
Important Note: Scores serve as quick-reference tools. The full written review provides essential context, nuanced observations, and specific details necessary to determine if a product matches your personal preferences and requirements.