A method for providing customized audio data products that includes the steps of (1) storing a machine readable hearing profile for a customer, (2) accepting via a data input device or data network for example, machine readable orders from the customer for a particular audio data product, (3) associating the hearing profile for the customer with the particular audio data product, (4) modifying the particular audio data product according to the hearing profile to produce a customized audio data product, (5) delivering the customized audio data product to the customer, for example via a network or by a machine readable storage medium, (6) accepting feedback from the customer concerning the objective or subjective performance of the customized audio data product, and (7) modifying the hearing profile in response to the feedback provided. An audio playback device for playing back customized audio products based on the hearing profiles, and a hearing test device for use in the generation of hearing profiles are provided. The customized audio data product can be delivered using a network, or provided on an article of manufacture that comprises a data storage medium that is configured for connection to and for disconnection from an audio playback device. In one embodiment, an audio playback device and a hearing test device for producing hearing profiles are combined in a single appliance including a headset and earphones.
