Time to upgrade your Hifiman headphones!
ZMF Headphones recently introduced custom pads designed specifically for select Hifiman headphone models: the ZMF Hifiman+ Subs. The new pads aim to enhance the listening experience by utilizing ZMF’s signature foam layering technology.
This was released with a video from ZMF’s YouTube channel featuring Zach Mehrbach, the founder of ZMF headphones.
ZMF Hifiman+ Subs Features
The custom pads fit several Hifiman models, such as the Sundara/HE Series, Arya, Ananda, XS, HE1000 SE and V2, Edition X V2, Jade II, and Susvara.
ZMF crafted each pad to match the shape of the specific model, ensuring a perfect fit. So, the pad dimensions vary depending on the Hifiman model:
- Sundara/HE Series: 29mm tall side, 19mm short side, angled round pads
- XS/Arya/HE-1000: 30mm tall side, 23mm short side, angled OVAL pads
- Susvara: 26mm tall side, 17mm short side, angled OVAL pads
The ZMF custom pads use a signature foam that provides optimal airflow for excellent sound quality. As Zach claims, the foam is not pure memory foam but has the right amount of gel for the desired audio performance and comfort.
The custom pads come in two main variations: lambskin and mesh hybrid.
The lambskin version has perforations on the inside, top, and outside. On the other hand, the mesh version has a solid inside and covered with fabric mesh on top. But, both of them have a solid leather exterior.
Effects on Sound Quality
Compared to the stock Hifiman pads, Zach noted that the ZMF pads generally offer better bass extension and slight differences in the upper mids and treble regions, depending on the model and pad variation.
For the Sundara, for instance, the lambskin ZMF pads provide a little more upper mids, a slight dip in the 3-4 KHz, and a similar treble compared to the stock pads. The ZMF mesh hybrid version, in contrast, is very similar to the stock pads but with a little more sub-bass extension.
For the Edition XS, both ZMF lambskin pads and mesh pads offer a slight boost in the 40 to 50 Hz bass region compared to the stock pads. But, they dip below 20 Hz.
The difference between the two is that the lambskin pads also have a little more upper mids in the 1-2 KHz area compared to the ZMF mesh version.
Lastly, for the Susvara, the ZMF mesh pads provide a bass boost around 48 Hz and a little more upper mids compared to the stock pads. The ZMF lambskin pads offer a sound closer to the stock version, with a slight smoothing effect and a minimal bass boost.
Where to Buy
The ZMF Hifiman+ Subs are available for purchase on the ZMF Headphones website. These come at around $60-$90, depending on the type and headphone model.