There are several important features in my headphone or earphone. The ability to accurately reproduce audio recordings is the most important. I look for the dynamic headroom, soundstage, and balanced sound without any coloration. I love the deep bass reproduction of drums, the distinct crispness of vocals and the brilliant detail of cymbals. I listen to an array of genres such as acoustic, jazz, jpop, kpop, contemporary R&B, electro pop, and classical. Demanding users are looking for low distortion, high sensitivity as well as efficiency.
Another important feature is comfort. In order to enjoy my listening experience, I do not want to be bothered by its pressure or weight on my ears and head. The headphones should be adjustable or self-adjusting to the wearer despite shape or size. Therefore, premium padding materials such as leather or velour on ear cups and band are recommended.
Headphones should be durable. The frame should be made of lightweight and rigid materials such as carbon fiber, kevlar, aluminum, magnesium or titanium. Cables and the voice coils should be made of premium materials such as OFC. Cable insulation material should be of durable material with low handling noise. Consumers look for 3 year warranty, serviceable repair parts & manufacturer support. A case should be provided or available for the ease of transporting and protection.
Due to recent economic times, a headphone product line should appeal to a variety of customers. On the inexpensive consumer line there should be a headphone or earphone which is affordable/portable to teenagers to college students and be created to appeal to their type of music.
Another line of headphones intended for studio/home use and finally a line of headphones which would appeal to an audiophile.
It is important to be able to demo the headphone before buying to wear & listen. While specifications can provide precise measurements and details but it cannot compare to listening to your favorite tracks with your own ears.
Finally, the headphone needs to look aesthetically pleasing in size and design with matching colors and textures.