I predominantly listen to music in three ways - when working out listening to Tidal through bluetooth Powerbeats headphones, when driving using either CDs or a USB connection streaming Tidal or Apple Music through the stock stereos on our cars; and on my couch watching music videos over the Tidal or Apple Music apps through my Apple TV, using my NAD amp and 2:2 system.

I've discovered a different tolerance to "sound quality" across each situation. When working out, I just want convenience and ease of use, and the Beats headphone deliver that in spades with acceptable sound quality. In the car, I want a balanced sound that's loud enough - usually bass is the limiting factor for satisfaction, but contemporary stock stereos are usually good enough (added aftermarket component speakers, amps, and subwoofers in other vehicles). I'm most discerning at home - I want a flat frequency curve with bass I can feel and vocal/percussion clarity that's good enough to take notice.