iOS 18 audio quality not as good as iOS 17 for audio enthusiasts/audiophiles

Using my Shure SE846 earphones, I have conducted extensive side-by-side comparisons using two iPhone 14 Plus phones and hi-res audio files (24-Bit/96 kHz) and I am very disappointed to report that, for the first time in iPhone history, the latest iOS update is a step backward (downgrade) in audio quality. As a result, I have decided not to upgrade to iOS 18.

Since 2007, every iOS update has delivered a noticeable improvement in audio quality, but NOT this time. I am now begging and pleading with Apple to PLEASE fix/improve the audio output quality of iOS 18.