In my case , I mostly used my SE215 at work to do the challenge during my lunch pause but best headphones (K812 I have at work currently) was helpful for extension challenges ( both High and Low extension) . I failed the Bass extension test under 50hz until I picked the K812. the most important points are to learn what to look for with exercices and the ability to focus on very specific point or specifice instruments in the sound. IMO.

Surely best gear is not absolutely needed but in my experience it helped.

I was breezing through until I got to the part in the silver section where you need to pick out the EQ modification from something like 18 choices....

I'm keep going back and practicing listening to the samples.  I'm going to get it eventually!  I find it to be very good training for the ears.