What should be mandatory in every professional published review-

Very interesting topic.

I’ll take it one step further. Specifically, Speakers. But the same could be applied to amplifiers and other electronics.

I would like to see pictures of the actual drivers used compared to the predecessors or other speaker makers in the same price range. That is not just external pictures but the actual drivers themselves showing their magnet motor structure compared to others. For that matter, seeing the crossover inwards would also be helpful.

Some of the upper end loudspeaker's go for close or above $100K. I know the cabinets are expensive, but what makes up all the other costs. R&D? I dunno.

But it would be helpful to know what makes these products better than their predecessors or competitors.

With other electronics, show the circuit boards and the types of materials used. Why is it better from previous designs?

From the pictures that are available, some of the new components look to have very little inside heavy metal chassis.

ozzy

I dislike the clickbait on Youtube--especially when a reviewer says "This could be my last _______ (speaker, amp, DAC etc...)  Then 3 months later, they're reviewing another item that replaced their last whatever.

Many reviewers post all of their own gear...would a photo make it sound better somehow? Because in either case you ain't gonna hear it.

at this point it is safe to say that most reviews are flawed and not an undeniable reference for purchasing anything.  they are constrained from mentioning anything remotely detracting about the sound and in fact barely describe the sound character at all. they simply cannot bite the hand that feeds them. 

most of the text in a review has nothing to do with how it sounds.  they are mostly fluff that includes company history, the new technology and why it should sound better, room and system setup, and maybe a little about how it sounds playing often obscure music.  even if the peice receives an enthusiastic recommendation there is little to go on in terms of how it will complement the sound of your system or its overall sonic character.  

buy from a place that allows a good return window and listen before you buy if possible.