ZMF 6xx+ Sub pads - Replacement Pads for Sennheiser HD6XX

Zach talks about ZMF pads that are crafted for some of the most iconic headphones in existence, the Senheiser 6xx series.
Purchase ZMF Pads here: shop.zmfheadphones.com/collec...
The ZMF 6xx+ pads come with a plastic removal tool.
Measurements made using the Bruel and Kajer 5128: www.bksv.com/en/transducers/s...
Measurements shown use the Audio Precision DF response curve.

[@DMS3TV]

holy hell Zach, you made a 3rd party sennheiser pad that measures good. That’s impressive! I gotta try these.

[@ConsecDesign]

Just got my perf lambskins. Zach is magic.

[@Sh0n0]

@@ConsecDesign how do you like them? i just ordered some, can't wait to try them out.

[@metal571]

The Zach saves the day again

[@onepieceatatime]

I'm going to say what needs to be said: Zach is a *genius*. I just got the ZMF 6XX Suede Perforated pads, and they take the 6XX where even Sennheiser could not. Well done!

[@onepieceatatime]

BTW, this pad fits perfectly on the Creative Aurvana Live, though I think I'd need the solid version for better bass. Probably fits lots of other, similar headphones as well. Nice that they aren't attached to the armature.

[@ZMFheadphones]

Thank you for the kind comments - and that's great to know about the Creative Aurvana!

[@xzackly7131]

First aftermarket Sennheiser pad I've seen that measures decently, well done.

[@Aikahzee]

Wow, thats great news Zach! A lot of people have hoped to see great aftermarket pads for the sennheiser cans for ages now. To see these perform nearly to stock-measurements is awesome.

[@puddleduckist]

just ordered a set of perforated lamb skin for my new hd6xx. can't wait to install them! rock on 🤘!

[@dasninjastix]

I'd buy ZMF Focal pads in a heartbeat. Just sayin'

[@RyanDeLaTorre]

Seconding this! Focal seems to be having a lot of problems with pad variation lately, I'd love to see a ZMF take on a Focal Elex/Clear pad.

[@skengasaurus]

​@@RyanDeLaTorre Don't get me wrong, I think ZMF makes incredible stuff, but I don't think anyone can rival their own pad variation

[@RyanDeLaTorre]

@@skengasaurus So Focal recently replaced their "Clear" with the "Clear MG," which has pads that are similar, but made of different material than the original OG Clear. (It's easy to test just by pressing on them, the OG pads rebound much more slowly, it's more of a memory foam kind of material.) Anyway, the OG Clear pads are no longer being made (even current Elex models ship with MG-style pads) and an OG Clear-style pad is /easily/ top of my list for pads I'd want ZMF to make next! :D

[@skengasaurus]

​@@RyanDeLaTorre I see, I'm sorry to hear that. I'm in the camp who thinks our rather quick adjustment to a new SS can work wonders, but nah, pad and tip discontinuation is always a bummer. Oh and btw, it probably sounded like I was saying "no one can rival Focal's pad variants" lol. What I was trying to say was that the variation in ZMF pads, even between two from a single set, is unlike anything I've ever seen. Again, great products and I own the VO, but the pad inconsistency (yes, audibly inconsistent) is unacceptable imo

[@skengasaurus]

@@RyanDeLaTorre full disclosure, i already placed an order for the lambskin perf 6xx pads lol

[@ryanhostudio]

nice to see the measurements definitely will help with mods! similar to my experience swapping pads

[@CaptainSkelly]

Just got a pair of the suede pads from DMS's recommendation. Totally in love with the way these pads sound with my HD6XX. Swapping pads with the sennheisers are oddly simple. Just. Snaps out and snaps in haha. I don't feel worried about my pads wearing out after a little while now. These pads feel really nice and sturdy

[@datoura]

Just ordered a pair of suede perforated pads after doing some reading and watching this and DMS' video. Really excited for them! I've had the stock pads for about 3 years now and they are well, well overdue.

[@ardoin_337]

It's been a bit over a month since this comment - how do you like them?

[@Kbaum752]

Thanks Zack. Just put on my suede pads. Worth every penny.

[@MRFUTURETECHNOLOGYGAMING]

Thank you zmf for making the pad rings removable I might have a headphone or two that will fit that I like how you pronounce it

[@dylan-nguyen]

I just bought the lambskin perforated and at first I thought I was given the wrong size (they're a bit smaller than the stock pads) but I figured it out and first impressions I really like them. I can't say I hear a difference (I'm quite a noob) but the overall feel is *much* better. biggest benefit for me is the pads are ever so slightly thicker so my ears don't touch the insides against the drivers! also so far liking the feel of the lambskin.

[@kcmsterpce]

Woah, that's awesome. My current pads have started to deflate and get ugly. Maybe I'll get these and pretty'em back up! Stylin'!

[@killthrash]

Got your suede perf pads on my 6XX, and they are killer. I love the angled design, keeps my ears from touching and makes the phones sit much better on my head. They are stiff out of the box, but I have a feeling they'll break in nicely over time. Sound is largely the same, aside from a bit more bass and have a little more punch in the dynamics. Same resolution and soundstage. The material feels much more durable than the stock pads. I plan to move these pads to the 660S that I just ordered. Thx Zach, keep up the good work!

[@killthrash]

My one complaint is the price. I paid $82 shipped, which is on the higher end of the pad market. I do believe they are the best pads, but at $50 shipped, they'd also be a killer value.

[@janxk4339]

How did the suede pads sound with hd660s? I am planning to order zmf pads to my hd660s, but I am puzled that should I order suede or perf. leather..

[@gaborkorom5984]

I just received today for my HD660S a pair of Suede pads. Testing it all afternoon. Very comfortable pads to me I like them. I did not try with my HD650 and did not try with the HD600 either. I like the HD660S the most of the 3 headphones so I ordered these pads for the 660S

[@adamtrotta5938]

Super cool! I would love if you made some ZMF pads for the Focal Utopias! Maybe add a little ZMF-ness to their sound

[@bigjt37]

Way to go Zach, this is cool. You are a 💎 to the hobby. You were the right one to do Senn and Beyer pads plus grado adapters!? Yeah I'm hyped. Seriously man, thanks. I wouldn't have wanted anyone what to do it, did sonics and comfort, your pads are 👑. I would love to see you do HiFiman even if it's not your fav type HP/brand, but I still believe you could do well. Sundara, Arya/HE1000/Sus.

[@dasninjastix]

Ha! I have that same cheap Stanley screwdriver set, that thing is like 20 years old man lol. I just ordered the Suedes and Perforated Lambskins, definitely worth it given how much I enjoy the 6XX. Awesome work, super excited to hear how they sound! (edit) omg I even have the same moon lamp you have on your desk at the end. I see you're a man of fine tastes Zach while maintaining a budget.

[@deshan79]

same here, I use it almost daily too.

[@NyaowYeon]

I must try these solid lamb skins! Awesome stuff

[@krazyolie]

Got my pair of suedes to replace some worn out stock ones on an hd650 and didn't like that it changed the signature sound so decided to swap them with the hd58x and it seems to match really well! Very comfortable. Wondering if they'll fit my sh1540 I'm sure some people will like them on the HD650/xx but they do change the sound. The 58x is a brighter headphone and the wider soundstage and slight driver angling seems to change it very much for the better. Reminds me of the sound from hd598 but fuller.

[@rileycollins1459]

Zach I would love to see comparisons to the Dekoni lineup. I expect someone will give impressions on headfi but most people don’t have a fancy measuring rig.

[@kevintj604]

This makes me want to buy the 650 again just to try these.

[@ChrisKershaw]

I would love to see some ZMF pads for the HD800 series. I bet they would sound amazing on my 800S.

[@mclement052164]

Agreed! If ZMF made bass boosting pads for the 800/800S, i'd snap a pair up!

[@mclement052164]

That's great to know about bass boosting pads for the 6XX. If you made pads that comfortably accomplish the same thing for the HD 800/800S, I'd say SHUT UP & TAKE MY MONEY!

[@popzeus3000]

Quite possibly the only 3rd party pad I'd use to replace my stock HD58X pads.

[@nikks1371]

Same

[@ewt00b]

Yaxi pads

[@ObeyaCorpsArmory]

Just did for my pair, worth for the comfort alone.

[@memoryerror]

I would love to see a perforated on the inside and solid lambskin on the outside and cheek side. I wonder if it could bring up the sub-bass without bringing up the lower mids.

[@kentbergstrom3020]

I'm sure these pads are more comfortable than stock, but I'm not going to risk ruining the legendary sound of my HD600 as the stock pads are a vital part of that sound.

[@maegnificant]

I would just love a tiny bit more sub-bass extension on the HD 600...

[@ObeyaCorpsArmory]

Bought the Pref Lambskin for my HD-58X and they are so comfortable, as for the sound... I didn't a/b test them but they sound similar but my stock pads were flattening from 5~ months use since I last pad swapped. But even if the sound isn't the same, just having these high quality leather pads that are extremely comfortable is an upgrade for me as I really don't like replacing the pads every 4-5 months like I had to with the stock pads. As for suggestion on next potential headphone to make pads for... HD-5~~ series with the new(er) HD-560S being popular now might be a good one. Don't own Focal myself but those also since their stock pads are costly to replace.

[@Sh0n0]

any update on how you like the pads? i just ordered the same ones for my HD650

[@ObeyaCorpsArmory]

@@Sh0n0 they definitely change the sound. they bring back the mids and it seems like the impact of music is "faster"? you lose detail as it gets pushed farther back in the stage/image. If i were to compare it to food, what it does is take the chicken in the salad thats on top of the salad and just mix it in with the rest of the food. the mids being the chicken. Takes a while to get used to the sound but I enjoy them and how they feel on my head for the most part. I have other more clinical headphones I can use for detail and imaging purposes. these are just very very comfortable and easy & smooth listening for me. I can raise the volume more and nothing is offensive or shouty. Kinda "tames" the mids and makes the sound more fun as the bass is thumpier but not super super punchy.

[@ObeyaCorpsArmory]

on a side note, as i press the cups against my head the detail increases so i guess that after time and when they get worn in their detail will sound amazing.

[@Sh0n0]

@@ObeyaCorpsArmory hell yeah, in other words if you bend the clamp force towards the middle, as sennheisers are notoriously clampy, maybe the detail will be a actually improve?. on head-fi someone tested all the ZMF pads and proposed the Performated lambskins to be superior to the stock for precision and detail work ie. for mixing/mastering music with the added bonus of soundstage.

[@ObeyaCorpsArmory]

@@Sh0n0 well id say the detail is really nice but on fresh pads its like lower volume for me if that makes any sense. everything DOES indeed sound clearer and slightly wider. as for making them clamp harder, could work maybe. what im doing is just pressing them in every so often to try and break them in more.

[@kerryvanderkamp5051]

I bought these for my 6xx and love how they feel and sound. I see you have also released pads for Focal. How does the lambskin perforated compare against the stock pads on Clear OG?

[@pavelschiopu7987]

Just got these in perforated lambskin, with EU tax on top. I like them. My big ears fit wholly inside the earcups, the sound is almost indistinguishable from stock (to me at least - I am not that finicky of a listener and will adapt to a certain extent). Maybe I would like a bit less 3KHz, but that is an issue with stock and the harman target and the like. They are not significantly hotter than stock. And lastly they seem like they will last at least double the velour ones, which, to me, makes them worth the cost.

[@PastafarianLemur]

Zach: any plans on making pads for the AKG K7XX series?

[@memoryerror]

I would love to see AKG K371 pads.

[@christof8704]

Tried to fit these on the Nitsch Jar600 and it doesn't work, something with how the inside of the headphone is modified I think. Even just trying with the plastic ring alone and I can't get it to fit. However it snaps right in on the 650 and I haven't tried on any of the other models but will get around to that. I also noticed you don't run with the foam over the driver so will try it out without the foam with these pads.

[@Kbaum752]

Just put the suedes on my 6xx. Well worth the money. Soundstage, top and bottom end much better.

[@PinePizza]

I really wonder how I could get my hands on these in Europe

[@o.f.ftrack3444]

No exaggeration, I've been wondering why the 600 series didnt have angled drivers like the 500 series but angled pads would seem like a viable option as well. I'm assuming that at some point there's going to be a closed back 600 series as well since I've been wondering about that too lol

[@turbomustang84]

Finally something other than the pilot pads I can afford lol

[@lupoal4113]

very nice pads, especially those not changing dramatically the 6XX soul... but then one question: as those pads (Suede and Lambskin) have curves very close to the standard what ZMF pads add to 6XX? Wider soundstage? better instruments separations? better mechanical performance over time? (those from Sennheiser flatten quite quickly)... as you know as usual is not simple to listen before to buy and I would like to better understand benefits before placing order. Thanks in advance.

[@Sh0n0]

yes

[@lupoal4113]

@@Sh0n0 yes to what?

[@Sh0n0]

@@lupoal4113 did you place your order it has been a month

[@turbomustang84]

Grado pads should be your next offering

[@ZMFheadphones]

Check out our Beyer pad video which will be out shortly - at the end I'll be showing some grado adapters and measurements.

[@jschannel8624]

i wonder how long these will last i would be super interested to get one. tho shipping to indonesia gonna be hell

[@ZeykronZ]

Hey zmf, when will the suede one come out?

[@nikokomac3185]

Hello Zack..which have more bass and smoother fuller sound lambskin perforated or suede perforated for sennheiser hd650?

[@nikhilpatolia6370]

Are there any plans to make pads for the HD800s

[@sebastianhanzlik4644]

Would be great to get pad for Audeze

[@maciejgeming8555]

Is it possible to do such a video with HD 600s?

[@N02tradamus]

Anyone tried solid pads with the hd600s?

[@kevinmccarthy3753]

Zach, I have never swapped pads before. Do you need to remove the original ring and replace with the zmf ring or do you just remove original pad and snap new ones in place.

[@ZMFheadphones]

Yeah the ring stays with each individual set of pads, you just have to pop the ring out. The ZMF pads come with a ring and you get it in and out as shown in the above video.

[@kevinmccarthy3753]

@@ZMFheadphones Thanks Zack, I received them today. They sound great, I hadn’t realized how much my original pads had deteriorated until I put yours on. Hopefully they will last much longer than the originals. I bought the suede ones and am now considering getting a pair of sheepskin perforated. I have both the HD600 & the HD6xx. Do you have any preference between the two?

[@Conrad75]

Now that it's been a little while (still probably not long enough) does anyone know if these have the same problem as the stock pads where they wear pretty quickly or do (would) these last a lot longer?

[@ZMFheadphones]

Hey Conrad - I can speak to the wear time of other MFR pads, but you should get at least a couple years out of our pads if you wear them every day. I carefully select the materials for these so that shouldn't be an issue.

[@AliArghavan]

I assume the measurements are compensated to some target? The raw measurements should have quite a bit more eargain

[@ZMFheadphones]

I forgot to mention it in the video but I do have it in the video description: Measurements shown use the Audio Precision DF response curve.

[@Tesseus]

So when putting the earpads on, right side is reversed to be on the left (facing me) I should put the thinner side facing me like the video then what about when the left side is on the left (facing me), would I also put the thinner side facing me too or further from me?

[@ZMFheadphones]

The thicker side always goes to the back of the ear.

[@Tesseus]

@@ZMFheadphones Thanks for the help, got the perforated lambskin a while back and love it!

[@je5781]

Do the HD800 that'd be a crazy challenge

[@ZMFheadphones]

Could be fun! Who knows...but no I haven't tried yet.

[@je5781]

@@ZMFheadphones Would also be great if you did a video about the virtues of hybrid pads

[@axlpoon0]

800 is not a challenge but 8XX is

[@Eevea_]

How come the stock pads weren't measured with the foam inserts that the 650 comes with?

[@ZMFheadphones]

I modded the HD650's years ago very slightly based on some info in this thread: www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/sennheiser-hd650-m-compendium.3188/ The headphone is close to stock except some dynamat on the plastic on the back of the baffle, and that quarter sized hole I cut out of the front charcoal foam. The pads measured are the stock HD650 pads that came with the headphones, so any differences shown in the measurements correlate to pad differences, and not to any modification done or not done on the headphones.

[@FabioKasper]

Very good point.

[@scottl8089]

Zach said I could make fun of him, but I just couldn't do it!

[@donvittoriosierra]

Has anyone tried these on the hd58x?

[@lilvietyao]

Hi ZMF, For the stock pads measurements, are those fresh pads or worn pads?

[@ZMFheadphones]

They're new/fresh pads!

[@PinePizza]

Can I get these in Europe somehow without paying high shipping fees and customs?

[@ZMFheadphones]

We have a number of great EU dealers: www.zmfheadphones.com/dealersnew

[@axlpoon0]

It's a great news to the 6XX. How about 8XX, Can you save them? XD

[@olimphus26]

ayo, 6xx pads ?

[@FabioKasper]

Is this memory foam, Zach?

[@ZMFheadphones]

We use a special foam that does have some memory, but may not be as aggressively "memory" holding as very gel infused memory foams. I have tested them all and this foam is the best acoustically.

[@JosiasRivera]

Do 6xx pads fit 660s2?

[@ZMFheadphones]

I believe the attachment method is the same!?

[@Raveehh]

Man if only these werent 100euros for us eu folk :c

[@dougquesnel5613]

Hifiman Arya :)

[@zerousen]

Wew

[@JTB--]

Jerry Seinheiser Headphone pads. No Soup or HD 800's pads for You!!

[@capomover]

Lipstick on a pig, I guess. Try listening with no pads at all. Use eq to bring up the bass.

[@taidee]

I've got to get these

[@pokiis3108]

Stock pads only noobs