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ZMF Gives Its Popular Headphones a Stabilized Wood Makeover

Some ZMF headphones now have stabilized wood ear cups. (From: ZMF)
Some ZMF headphones now have stabilized wood ear cups. (From: ZMF)

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Each set features a completely one-of-a-kind design.

ZMF has unveiled striking new ‘Stabilized’ versions of some of its popular headphone models. The Atrium Closed, Atrium, Auteur, Caldera, and Eikon now feature exquisite wooden designs achieved through a unique stabilization process.

These models join ZMF’s lineup of stabilized offerings, which previously included the Verite Closed and Aeolus.

New Stabilized ZMF Headphones

Atrium Stabilized Headphones. (From: ZMF Headphones)
Atrium Stabilized Headphones. (From: ZMF Headphones)

The new stabilized ZMF headphones feature ear cups made from carefully dried wood infused with colorful resin. This process fills any natural imperfections, making each set visually unique and durable.

Caldera Stabilized Headphones. (From: ZMF Headphones)
Caldera Stabilized Headphones. (From: ZMF Headphones)

ZMF says all materials for these headphones are sourced and crafted in the US, ensuring high quality and support for local businesses. Each pair also meets ZMF’s strict quality standards.

For example, the wood used in these headphones isn’t just for looks. It’s chosen for its acoustic properties, making the listening experience richer and more natural.

Aside from the material used, these headphones have the same specs as their original versions.

Pricing and Availability

Stabilized Atrium Closed. (From: ZMF)
Stabilized Atrium Closed. (From: ZMF)

The Stabilized models are available for purchase directly from ZMF’s online store with the following prices:

Notably, each Stabilized unit is a one-of-a-kind piece, unique in its color and pattern combinations due to the stabilization process. Because of this, customers can expect a lead time of 1-4 weeks for shipping, as each unit undergoes rigorous quality control measures.

Each edition offers more than ten unique models, with real-time availability reflected in the drop-down menu on the product page. If a model is available, it should be listed there. If not, they’re considered sold out.

Stabilized Wood and Its Benefits

The process of creating the stabilized ear cups. (From: ZMF)
The process of creating the stabilized ear cups. (From: ZMF)

Stabilization mainly aims to harden wood by filling its natural voids and gaps. It involves using wood that has been dried to almost zero percent humidity. Then, they fill it completely with a colored resin, like Cactus Juice or penetrating epoxy.

This new technique creates beautiful wood with unique colors, figures, and patterns that would be impossible to make with traditional woodworking methods.

Besides aesthetics, this treatment also makes the wood more durable.

By filling the wood’s pores with resin, it stops moisture from being absorbed and the wood from expanding and contracting. This lowers the risk of cracking, swelling, and warping over time.

Stabilized wood is also easier to work with and finish compared to natural, untreated wood, as the stabilization process fills some open pores and voids.

It’s also denser than non-stabilized wood, which can affect the sound quality of the headphones. The denser wood can give a firmer and faster transient response, which can mean better bass impact and overall sound quality. However, not everyone may be able to hear the differences.

ZMF also has plans to release stabilized versions of its Homage amplifier in the coming months.

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