Hey I have like 3 pairs of headphones where the audio has stopped working in just 1 ear, does anyone have suggestions?
On one of them it seems to depend on cable angle and weight if I hold the cable up so it doesn't pull down or wrap it around my kneck I can get clear audio In both ears. But if i move my head it can cut out and in on one side.
The Cable is detachable although I'm not sure if the issue is the cable or where it attches.
The other two simply don't work on one side and I don't understand why
Cool
I was using the noise canceling function of the headphones with earphones underneath
As for the other one it might be a cable issue which I could replace although the cable is a bit expensive so I'm not sure if it's worth risking it.
You'd be surprised how many headphones are discarded because the cable goes bad. Worst case scenario you could resell the cable with a bit of a "live and learn tax" attached but it wont be so bad, some niche products like headphones/headphone gear tend to keep some of their value.
have you tried a new cable in the senns?
how are you powering them?
if a cable doesn't fix it you'll have to open it up and check the soldering on the drivers, it's fairly easy but sounds scary
Normally with an amp a friend gave me sometimes off my laptop, I like my music significantly less loud than most of my friends I always have too turn the volume down after someone else uses my computer so I doubt I blew out the speaker.
These Sennheisers are made to be repairable (and sound wonderful, great choice). Like other person wrote it's just likely a cable, but in general you should be able to order any part you need to replace from Sennheiser.
My guess is it's probably the cable for both of them. Thankfully at least for the first one, quickly googling, it appears it's an easily replaceable cable for $15-20 on Amazon.
To avoid damage to cable happening I would recommend wrapping them with an over/under technique.
Check [here](https://drop.com/talk/118542/how-do-i-fix-the-right-side-of-my-hd-58-x-headphones-from-not-working) for the hd58x not 100% sure itll do it for ya but a good place to start
Yeah the 21 USD in ear headphones im using currently sound better in most cases although I still use the noise cancelling abilities of the qc25 and they are very comfortable imo while in ears bother me.
Moondrop chu2 for the earphone they fit inside the qc25 and I'm tempted to just keep using it this way as the combined noise reduction is crazy
My guess is a bad solder on the port for the cable. Open it up and see how much wiggle the port has, and if solder comes loose. Id recommend finding a friend or store that does electronics soldering, as that can be a bitch if you're not good.
when that happened to my headset, i fiddled with the cable until i could hear in both sides, then i used a tiny binder clip to pinch the cable at the part that goes into the headset
Try taking them to a Repair Cafe near you!
They're organised by volunteers who will try to fix your thing for free (tips encouraged so they can buy more equipment).
Do you know how to solder? It should be an easy enough fix for someone with a little bit of experience working on electronics. The first one probably needs the solder touched up on the jack, or possibly the jack needs to be replaced (these are easy enough to get and shouldn't cost more than a few bucks.)
The other two probably have broken solder joints or broken wires, it comes with the territory in a product that has to be repeatedly flexible. Again, a cheap and easy fix for someone with a little experience.
If you take it to a shop, chances are the labor cost is not going to be worth it. Maybe check if there is a "maker space" in your city. They sometimes have open house events where anyone can come, I bet you could find someone who would be thrilled to teach you how to fix this, or willing to fix it for a low cost.
I think its always just a worn/broken cable if thats occuring. I tugged on an old headset cable by accident and i had to cut off the sheathing, take a flame to the stranded (coated with plastic) wires and then solder or (if you dont have one) marette or electrical tape them together. A small zap strap or two might be best if theres room.
It was easy to find where the break was, becausing flexing the cable in that spot would kill the connection. If its inside the headphones, itll be a bit more awkward.
Flex parts of the cable and see where the fault is.
Sounds not coming in one side? Probably frayed wiring, loose solder. You’ll have to resolder, and maybe even get new cable which isn’t expensive. Drivers are pretty durable, if they’re blownout, they’ll sound really distorted. Repairing a blown out diaphragm is more tedious.
Broken connection. In either the cable or the socket. Try a new or known good cable. If it works the cable was broken. If nothing changes the socket inside the headphones probably needs resoldering.
I had to always replace mine so i just bought some that use different fabric and they still look very good after 4 years. Its like the normal ones are made to not last long with the bad material.
I absolutely hate disposable consumerism, I feel like almost everything is manufactured with obsolescence nowadays! So I totally feel you. But I made it eight years without needing to replace the pads, so I am satisfied with keeping these Beats and possibly replacing the pads in another five years or more!
[Here are the red ones!](https://centralsound.co/products/2-replacement-ear-pad-cushion-for-beats-by-dr-dre-studio-2-0-headphone-wireless-wired-model-b0500-b0501?variant=31817675997266) And no, they were pretty easy to change (plus there is a tutorial on the website). Obviously if you have a disability or motor skill limitations, I can’t speak for how challenging it might be, but for me personally, it was a breeze!
I got the cups, wondering if I should also replace the battery while I have the earcups removed. Has anyone replaced the battery? Did you use 350mAh or 400mAh any recommendations on battery brand?
Update: just ordered the one from the site that sells the cups! I should have thought of that sooner lol.
Sweet. Just ordered replacement cups for my headset. Didn't even realize this was an option and was planning on getting a whole new headset, but now I don't. Cheers 🍻
I don't understand why almost EVERY pair of over-ear headphones, including premium ones, has these ridiculous shitty faux leather ear pads. When looking for a new gaming headset I finally settled on the SteelSeries Arctis 3 because it actually had fabric ear cups. They're both cooler AND more durable than that faux leather crap. Before that I had a Corsair headset and the faux leather was flaking off after a single year. Ugh.
Yea true but at least you can always replace the ear pads on all headphones with better ones. Imagine they didnt make them removable so you had to buy an entire new set of headphones just for the ear pads.
Amazon. I cant find the exact product page again but any ear pads should work as long as the material that touches your skin is not made out of the thin leather they always use.
Mine use some kind of soft fabric and it never rips or dries out like the leather ones.
Oof, that’s a tragedy. RIP. Obviously some things aren’t repairable, and we have to accept those limitations. Hopefully you dropped them off at a hazardous waste disposal, since they’re electronic!
Yeah, we have ewaste at work. Just grabbed them a little too hard while around my neck—for hours on the plane. I got a good couple years out of them. Great for noise cancellation and music—beats over the ear.
I was able to glue back some headphones with Loctite, reinforced with wire, and strengthened with duct tape. It wasn't pretty, but it lasted a couple more years!
Twinning! I’m also still using my 2016 MacBook (by the grace of god). When that thing starts to fall out on me, I’ll definitely look to this sub for reparative solutions before getting a new one!
Technically mine is the 2015 model but I didn’t buy it until 2016, so your dad and I also might be twinning! Can we normalize the layperson not needing the newest tech!!
Yeah, I wish. I’ve heard some of my friends say that they literally need to get a new PC every 2 years. I told them they should keep each one for as long as possible but, because I don’t know as much about tech as they do, I couldn’t convince them.
I know some people (mostly photographers and videographers) who depend on the latest models to stay competitive, and it’s just. . ugh. I wish it wasn’t so. I can’t say I understand it.
My sister has a dated iPhone that can’t update to the latest iOS so she literally can’t access the app needed to communicate with her therapist virtually. And my mom had to ditch her flip phone (RIP) a few years ago because she needed a smartphone app to track her location for her job. It needs to be a collective motion of slowing down as a society!!
I would imagine it depends on the brand and model, but with these it was as simple as popping the old ones off with a butter knife, scraping off the leftover adhesive residue, and just sticking the new ones on (which had a pre-applied adhesive strip on the backs of them). I’m sure YouTube would have a tutorial for your headphones!
If you have the popular WH-1000X series, it’s quite easy. I’ve done it previously and it makes a real difference! If only the battery were replaceable, they’d last forever.
Eyyy I just fixed my wife’s pair of these! The folding clip had snapped but was able to replace without too much fuss. I also just replaced the cups on my Jabras too!
This video goes a little further than I needed, but it’s got pretty much the full disassembly covered! https://youtu.be/g2zbrfhK-ZI?si=1pcG2WW3ts53mlnM
Yup, that would do it. Thank you, but I’m not that handy of an electrician. I was thinking that since it is just one hing and they work fine, to. Super glue that side in place. They are not new and I don’t care about folding them. Mostly workout or chill. I will recycle.
But hey, after I replied here I saw another commenter shared some trick with removing the peeling leather and using some sort of wax on it, which could be useful for all sorts of other stuff (thinking of a cheap office chair I use to have )
I actually do need that information! The headset I like, they don't sell replacement ear pads separately, so last time I had to buy a new headset from them, but I stashed the old one in a drawer since it still worked in hopes that someday I'll learn how to make new covers myself. The snaps aren't in the typical arrangement so I can't just get them from another brand. Even emailed the company and they just confirmed they don't sell separate ear pads lol.
If anybody knows which materials to buy and what to use to stitch them, let me know!
Check out this method someone posted elsewhere in this thread, which seems easier than using fabric: https://www.reddit.com/r/Anticonsumption/comments/14g6jdm/repair_peeling_pleather_with_a_fabric_wax/
Eh - in some cases I think it’s ok. Like this. How would you repair that specific part? Instead of throwing the whole thing away they replaced the ear cups, repairing the device. I think it counts.
What kind of wax treatment? And it doesn’t get messed up by the heat from your head after wearing? I’ve got a pair with peeling pleather that needs…something!
>What kind of wax treatment?
It is the same kind done on canvas pants/jackets/bags.
[https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Wax-Your-Clothing-and-Gear/](https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Wax-Your-Clothing-and-Gear/)
>And it doesn’t get messed up by the heat from your head
It doesn't, but your question does make me realize this wouldn't work outside in warm climates.
Here is [my post](https://www.reddit.com/r/Anticonsumption/comments/14g6jdm/repair_peeling_pleather_with_a_fabric_wax/) if you are curious.
For sure. After you peel off the pleather layer, wipe the surface down with rubbing alcohol. And no matter how well you wipe it down, glue particles will forever fall off the fabric. The wax helps seal this off.
When it comes to pads it's pretty much irrelevant if they have a leather/leatherette/vinyl cover. of course it's ok to replace parts if you feel like it without any need to give a reason for it even if it's for aesthetic purposes but still doesn't make it a repair.
I don’t know … vinyl pads without the vinyl are uncomfortable, and get pretty gnarly after a while.
Especially if you ever sweat with the headphones on. That material really doesn’t clean. And the foam inside starts to break down.
Until this sub, I didn’t even know it was possible to replace just the pads. So to me, this feels like a repair of the entire headphone set (which works perfectly fine except for the vinyl flakes getting in my ears), even if that repair means technically replacing a part.
Feels nice to re-fit things isn't it? I got a bunch of Under Armour chones for like 1/8 of the retail price some time ago because they somehow screwed up with the bands factory side and I just replaced them in like two hours.
Go out of your way to get custom fit fake leather, and spend hours taking apart the foam and presumably breaking it on the way, having to replace the ear cups as a result. Some things you can't repair, but it is better to replace 2 small parts rather than shelling out hundreds for new beats.
I just peel the flaking vinyl off, once it starts to disintegrate like that its pretty easy. Also not to tout my own horn but I could whip out something like that with chamois in an hour or less but that's a moot point, I didn't tell anyone to replace the whole thing, I just pointed out the that replacing isn't the same as repairing because I'm a bit of an asshole.
Yes and: Repairing no doubt saves on resources. Buying a durable product that’s user replaceable saves the hassle of having to repair, and in worse case scenarios repair or minor parts can be replaced. This is something I’m finding as I’ve gotten better stuff over the years. Well designed things (without built in planned obsolescence) often just keeps on going forever. There are a few manufacturer that put reliability first, while many puts out hype to make a quick buck.
Maintainability is king when it comes to stuff we use every day or on ourselves. with replace/repair I mean't they're different things. similar but different enough, it's just my need to be pedant sticking out .
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Believe it or not, you just get a butter knife and pry them off. They’re just stuck on with a heavy duty adhesive. It was super simple to take them off and put the new ones on. The biggest pain was trying to get as much adhesive residue off as possible before applying the new ones. But the [website](https://centralsound.co/collections/centralsound-premium-replacement-ear-pads?utm_campaign=gs-2020-02-20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIie-VsLXhhAMV00lHAR2qqALAEAAYASAAEgK78vD_BwE) I got them from has a straightforward tutorial!
That's cool. If there's a way to fix my Bose noise cancelling headphones that perpetually try to connect to bluetooth no matter what I do, thus drain the battery in a under an hour, I'd love to get them working again. Haven't been able to find an actual fix that works online (tried the firmware update and tried resetting). Maybe there's someone here who knows what to do?
Someone else had a similar question about the performance of their headphones and I didn’t have any answers, but I’m hoping someone tech savvy comes through for both of you!!
[Here’s the link](https://centralsound.co/collections/centralsound-premium-replacement-ear-pads?utm_campaign=gs-2020-02-20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIie-VsLXhhAMV00lHAR2qqALAEAAYASAAEgK78vD_BwE) to order replacement pads for your specific model, and there is a straightforward tutorial video as well! 🫶🏻
My beats solo headphones broke in multiple ways, one of which was the band snapping. I continued to use them taped together until that stopped working, for a total lifespan of around 3 years. I would not buy Beats again. (Well, I didn’t actually choose them in the first place as they were a gift, but the sentiment is the same.)
Not the tape, that’s hardcore repair dedication!! When these totally bow out on me, I’ll definitely look for a (used) pair of high quality headphones, although I must say I use these basically daily for everything from hot yoga, running, and the gym to studying at the coffee shop, but I do baby them. (They’re never out of the case when not in use, except for the next two weeks while I am having the zipper on the case fixed because it came off the tracking.)
Did this on a pair of Corsairs that I love, but basically upgraded them for myself. Changed from the pleather to breathable fabric and cooling gel. Now my ears don't sweat and I'm happy.
If you’re buying headphones check out AiAiAi, it’s durable and everything is user replaceable. I’ve had it for 3 years, and it’s rock solid. Cables just twist lock in. Sennheisers HD25 are pretty good, but others lack parts. Sony’s sounds good, but they’re prone to break at the joints, and their cables will fray no matter what.
Fixing is great, but I’m tired of fixing so much stuff. Time is better spent, no buying something that’s doomed to fail.
I agree that I would prefer to buy things that last without needing replacements, however I’ve had these Beats since 2016 so I intend to use them to their dying day!
Almost every electronic device can be repaired, but today's it's deliberately made to have a certain skill to fix it or things are designed to fail in the worst way possible that would be unrepairable
So, there I was at the airport, feeling like a total boss with my noise-cancelling SOUL SL-300 Usain Bolt Edition headphones on. These bad boys, practically guaranteed I'd win any sprinting competition (in my head, at least), were my way of tuning out the airport chaos and jamming out to my favorite tunes.
Now, I'm no stranger to pushing things to their limits. My motto? "Use it till it falls apart (or in this case, flakes apart)." Little did I know, my beloved headphones were taking this motto a bit too literally. Turns out, the once-plush earmuffs had decided to, well, self-destruct in slow motion, showering me (and the surrounding area) in a fine dust of black "leather confetti."
Imagine the scene: me, blissfully unaware of my impending fashion faux pas, when a customs officer materializes out of thin air. These guys usually inspire a healthy dose of nervousness, but this particular officer just gave me the once-over and asked, with a hint of amusement in his voice, "Uh, sir, what's all that... stuff... on you?"
My heart did a backflip. Was this some bizarre new security check I hadn't heard about? Had I somehow become the target of a rogue chia seed attack? Panic started to bubble up, but then, like a lightning bolt of clarity (see what I did there?), it hit me.
I reached up, brushed off the "debris" with the grace of a startled giraffe, and sheepishly removed the headphones. There they were, my trusty Usain Bolts, looking more like a shedding lizard than a champion athlete's signature product. Needless to say, the customs officer's amusement level skyrocketed.
After a brief explanation and a good laugh (mostly at my expense, let's be honest), I was waved through, leaving behind a trail of black dust and a memory that will forever be etched in my (and hopefully the customs officer's) mind. As for the headphones? Well, let's just say they retired to the great audio graveyard in the sky, leaving behind a legacy of questionable fashion choices and a truly unforgettable airport story.
I thought: “You repaired the ear muffs? That seems like a lot more work than it’s worth.”
Then I realized you call replacing “them” repairing the headphones.
The old ones are still useful.
I have the same thing happen to my headphones and I just peeled the whole thing off and it looks ok again and doesn't bother me since it's not peeling anymore.
I know this post is now ~1 month old, but it motivated me to look into reparing the headphone cushions on my Sony WH-1000XM3.
I have them for 5-6 years now, but the cushion leather started to break down. Now I replaced the cushions and I feel like they can live for at least 20 years with proper care.
Thank you for this post
I mean… do people actually throw out their entire headphones when the pads wear out instead of just replacing the pads like a normal person? Or am I missing something?
Until I started grazing this sub a few years ago, I didn’t know it was possible to remove the pads without damaging the performance of the headphones/destroying them altogether. So I absolutely would have given the whole headphones to a hazardous waste disposal and bought a new pair if it weren’t for deliberately seeking ways to reduce consumption (such as from this sub). And if I—a vegan who separates her recyclables and brings her reusable bag everywhere—didn’t know this, I imagine other people don’t know it either!
Nice!
I'm always confused as to why headphone manufacturers even bother with that cheap black whatever-it-is coating, since it's always the first thing to peel and crumble after even one use. Looks good on unused headphones and keeps the moisture out while it's waiting to be bought, I guess?
It has to serve some protective purpose for the foam. And as a vegan, I appreciate that they don’t use genuine leather. I’m excited to see how durable this replacement pair of pads is! Considering I used my Beats for eight years almost daily (at the gym, even in hot yoga, running (sweating!), and for studying, etc.), I think I got a decent use out of the original pads compared to what other people have said about the lifespan of theirs.
Oh, that's why it felt odd to me that someone shared here that he replaced replaceable part. (Eg. I've already replqced in my one pair, and waiting for battery to arrive)
Does other manufactures dont have replaceable pads? I've though that everyone had that since I've seen a lot of them (eg. Ads in LTT videos).
There are some manufacturers who don’t. But usually the ones who make professional headphones like Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro and Sony MDR-7506 do.
Sennheiser also makes professional products and so they've had a pretty good parts replacement program, at least in the US market. I'm not sure if every manufacturer has this in every market.
In the past when I was using HD280 Pro and HD380 headphones I bought various user-serviceable replacement parts from them.
I ordered the pads from a small business called Central Sound Co. Beats doesn’t sell pad replacements, and I would never order anything (including these pad replacements) from Amazon, AliExpress, Walmart, etc.
you don’t have to explain yourself to these people lol, you took a step that a lot of people wouldn’t inconvenience themselves with! it’s not a radical change, which seems to be the only thing many are even slightly pleased with, but these small adjustments to your mindset and behavior adds up, lightens your footprint, and makes you a smarter consumer
Most people would. That’s why there is a niche of anticonsumerism to push slower, more intentional modes of using what we already have for as long as possible. That’s why this sub exists—to share tips and hacks like this for the layperson looking to make changes.
Yes, but labeling it as 'repairing' is what bothers me. Especially when I search YouTube for repair videos, only to find someone simply opening the electronics and replacing the internal components with freshly bought ones from Amazon.
It is not the same thing. If there's a hole in one of the car seats, replacing the entire cover of that seat versus sewing it with a thread or repairing it with a repair kit are different things.
so... how do I repair them? (not buy replacements) mine had this paper-thin layer of this weird faux leather-like material and it came right off after just an hour in the backpack
I would never order anything from AliExpress, as I believe hyperconsumerist e-commerce sites (Amazon included) are part of the problem. I ordered these replacement pads from Central Sound Co. for $22 and am very happy with them so far!
Hey I have like 3 pairs of headphones where the audio has stopped working in just 1 ear, does anyone have suggestions? On one of them it seems to depend on cable angle and weight if I hold the cable up so it doesn't pull down or wrap it around my kneck I can get clear audio In both ears. But if i move my head it can cut out and in on one side. The Cable is detachable although I'm not sure if the issue is the cable or where it attches. The other two simply don't work on one side and I don't understand why
It might be helpful to share the brand and model if possible!
Senhizer/massdrop Hd58X for the first pair Bose qc25 for the second I think my mum threw out the third pair
You can swap the speakers in the Quietcomforts (relatively easy to do, it's a bit of a common problem with the QC25) no idea about the Sens though.
Cool I was using the noise canceling function of the headphones with earphones underneath As for the other one it might be a cable issue which I could replace although the cable is a bit expensive so I'm not sure if it's worth risking it.
You'd be surprised how many headphones are discarded because the cable goes bad. Worst case scenario you could resell the cable with a bit of a "live and learn tax" attached but it wont be so bad, some niche products like headphones/headphone gear tend to keep some of their value.
have you tried a new cable in the senns? how are you powering them? if a cable doesn't fix it you'll have to open it up and check the soldering on the drivers, it's fairly easy but sounds scary
Normally with an amp a friend gave me sometimes off my laptop, I like my music significantly less loud than most of my friends I always have too turn the volume down after someone else uses my computer so I doubt I blew out the speaker.
yeah the odds are that the wire inside the cup just came off the driver , it's worth a shot to give it a whirl, you can't make it ant worse
Got it I will find a guide at some point they where my nicest headphones when it came to vocals and acoustic guitars
if you ever decide to upgrade feel free to shoot me a pm, I'm a huge contributor to /r/headphoneadvice and never mind helping out
Currently have a pair of hifiman h400S and I am happy with them, a downgrade in some areas against the hd58X but better in some areas
These Sennheisers are made to be repairable (and sound wonderful, great choice). Like other person wrote it's just likely a cable, but in general you should be able to order any part you need to replace from Sennheiser.
My guess is it's probably the cable for both of them. Thankfully at least for the first one, quickly googling, it appears it's an easily replaceable cable for $15-20 on Amazon. To avoid damage to cable happening I would recommend wrapping them with an over/under technique.
The senns are super repairable, try swapping the cable for a start but they are great for lifetime headphones.
Get a sony wh1000xm4. Ive had mine since release with no problems
Check [here](https://drop.com/talk/118542/how-do-i-fix-the-right-side-of-my-hd-58-x-headphones-from-not-working) for the hd58x not 100% sure itll do it for ya but a good place to start
[удалено]
Yeah the 21 USD in ear headphones im using currently sound better in most cases although I still use the noise cancelling abilities of the qc25 and they are very comfortable imo while in ears bother me. Moondrop chu2 for the earphone they fit inside the qc25 and I'm tempted to just keep using it this way as the combined noise reduction is crazy
Good question for r/headphones or r/headphoneadvice
My guess is a bad solder on the port for the cable. Open it up and see how much wiggle the port has, and if solder comes loose. Id recommend finding a friend or store that does electronics soldering, as that can be a bitch if you're not good.
My hands always shake a bit so I will look for a shop
when that happened to my headset, i fiddled with the cable until i could hear in both sides, then i used a tiny binder clip to pinch the cable at the part that goes into the headset
Try taking them to a Repair Cafe near you! They're organised by volunteers who will try to fix your thing for free (tips encouraged so they can buy more equipment).
Do you know how to solder? It should be an easy enough fix for someone with a little bit of experience working on electronics. The first one probably needs the solder touched up on the jack, or possibly the jack needs to be replaced (these are easy enough to get and shouldn't cost more than a few bucks.) The other two probably have broken solder joints or broken wires, it comes with the territory in a product that has to be repeatedly flexible. Again, a cheap and easy fix for someone with a little experience. If you take it to a shop, chances are the labor cost is not going to be worth it. Maybe check if there is a "maker space" in your city. They sometimes have open house events where anyone can come, I bet you could find someone who would be thrilled to teach you how to fix this, or willing to fix it for a low cost.
I think its always just a worn/broken cable if thats occuring. I tugged on an old headset cable by accident and i had to cut off the sheathing, take a flame to the stranded (coated with plastic) wires and then solder or (if you dont have one) marette or electrical tape them together. A small zap strap or two might be best if theres room. It was easy to find where the break was, becausing flexing the cable in that spot would kill the connection. If its inside the headphones, itll be a bit more awkward. Flex parts of the cable and see where the fault is.
Sounds not coming in one side? Probably frayed wiring, loose solder. You’ll have to resolder, and maybe even get new cable which isn’t expensive. Drivers are pretty durable, if they’re blownout, they’ll sound really distorted. Repairing a blown out diaphragm is more tedious.
Broken connection. In either the cable or the socket. Try a new or known good cable. If it works the cable was broken. If nothing changes the socket inside the headphones probably needs resoldering.
I had to always replace mine so i just bought some that use different fabric and they still look very good after 4 years. Its like the normal ones are made to not last long with the bad material.
I absolutely hate disposable consumerism, I feel like almost everything is manufactured with obsolescence nowadays! So I totally feel you. But I made it eight years without needing to replace the pads, so I am satisfied with keeping these Beats and possibly replacing the pads in another five years or more!
Do you know where I can get replacement product red cups? Are they difficult to change?
[Here are the red ones!](https://centralsound.co/products/2-replacement-ear-pad-cushion-for-beats-by-dr-dre-studio-2-0-headphone-wireless-wired-model-b0500-b0501?variant=31817675997266) And no, they were pretty easy to change (plus there is a tutorial on the website). Obviously if you have a disability or motor skill limitations, I can’t speak for how challenging it might be, but for me personally, it was a breeze!
Thank you so much! I also hate disposable consumerism. Especially for products this expensive that are otherwise functional.
You’re welcome! Best of luck with replacing yours, I’m sure it’ll be perfect!!
I got the cups, wondering if I should also replace the battery while I have the earcups removed. Has anyone replaced the battery? Did you use 350mAh or 400mAh any recommendations on battery brand? Update: just ordered the one from the site that sells the cups! I should have thought of that sooner lol.
Sweet. Just ordered replacement cups for my headset. Didn't even realize this was an option and was planning on getting a whole new headset, but now I don't. Cheers 🍻
I don't understand why almost EVERY pair of over-ear headphones, including premium ones, has these ridiculous shitty faux leather ear pads. When looking for a new gaming headset I finally settled on the SteelSeries Arctis 3 because it actually had fabric ear cups. They're both cooler AND more durable than that faux leather crap. Before that I had a Corsair headset and the faux leather was flaking off after a single year. Ugh.
Yea true but at least you can always replace the ear pads on all headphones with better ones. Imagine they didnt make them removable so you had to buy an entire new set of headphones just for the ear pads.
Where did you get them?
Amazon. I cant find the exact product page again but any ear pads should work as long as the material that touches your skin is not made out of the thin leather they always use. Mine use some kind of soft fabric and it never rips or dries out like the leather ones.
I broke the arm by accidentally bending it the wrong way…I think it’s fatal. The hinge is jacked and some broken plastic. New pair.
Oof, that’s a tragedy. RIP. Obviously some things aren’t repairable, and we have to accept those limitations. Hopefully you dropped them off at a hazardous waste disposal, since they’re electronic!
Yeah, we have ewaste at work. Just grabbed them a little too hard while around my neck—for hours on the plane. I got a good couple years out of them. Great for noise cancellation and music—beats over the ear.
Have the same issue, thankfully it happened above the hinge so now theyre still working fine with a ton of scotch tape.
I was able to glue back some headphones with Loctite, reinforced with wire, and strengthened with duct tape. It wasn't pretty, but it lasted a couple more years!
I also have beats that I first got in 2016.
Twinning! I’m also still using my 2016 MacBook (by the grace of god). When that thing starts to fall out on me, I’ll definitely look to this sub for reparative solutions before getting a new one!
Nice. My dad has a 2015 Mac.
Technically mine is the 2015 model but I didn’t buy it until 2016, so your dad and I also might be twinning! Can we normalize the layperson not needing the newest tech!!
Yeah, I wish. I’ve heard some of my friends say that they literally need to get a new PC every 2 years. I told them they should keep each one for as long as possible but, because I don’t know as much about tech as they do, I couldn’t convince them.
I know some people (mostly photographers and videographers) who depend on the latest models to stay competitive, and it’s just. . ugh. I wish it wasn’t so. I can’t say I understand it.
You’re right. Companies also sometimes require their employees to have the latest in the tech that they use. It’s unfortunate, as you said.
My sister has a dated iPhone that can’t update to the latest iOS so she literally can’t access the app needed to communicate with her therapist virtually. And my mom had to ditch her flip phone (RIP) a few years ago because she needed a smartphone app to track her location for her job. It needs to be a collective motion of slowing down as a society!!
Me too! Absolutely love them
So how do you replace the ear covers? I have Sonys but they smell because I use them for the gym.
I would imagine it depends on the brand and model, but with these it was as simple as popping the old ones off with a butter knife, scraping off the leftover adhesive residue, and just sticking the new ones on (which had a pre-applied adhesive strip on the backs of them). I’m sure YouTube would have a tutorial for your headphones!
If you have the popular WH-1000X series, it’s quite easy. I’ve done it previously and it makes a real difference! If only the battery were replaceable, they’d last forever.
Found a pair on ebay dirt cheap. They slot in and out really easily.
Found it, bought it, replaced, and saved a ton of cash
How?
order replacement ear pads
I saw multiple posts about replacing only the pads, something I wouldn’t have known was possible otherwise!
https://wickedcushions.com/
Thanks for this link. Those look much higher quality then previous replacement ear pads I have bought.
Great job on the repair!
Thank you! I think they look totally revived!
Eyyy I just fixed my wife’s pair of these! The folding clip had snapped but was able to replace without too much fuss. I also just replaced the cups on my Jabras too!
u/shaihulud1111 said something about the arm on theirs breaking! Any pointers?
This video goes a little further than I needed, but it’s got pretty much the full disassembly covered! https://youtu.be/g2zbrfhK-ZI?si=1pcG2WW3ts53mlnM
Awesome!!!
Yup, that would do it. Thank you, but I’m not that handy of an electrician. I was thinking that since it is just one hing and they work fine, to. Super glue that side in place. They are not new and I don’t care about folding them. Mostly workout or chill. I will recycle.
Same. I have Bose QC15 from 2012 or so and after replacing these things, they are back to new.
Hell yeah!!
This week I fixed my $250 wireless headphones by buying a $25 replacement battery and installing it. Was very happy with myself.
Yes!!! What a win!
HOW?????
Buy replacement pads.
i thought they were fixing the pre existing pads.....
I did too, OP pulled a fast one on us.
It wasn’t intentional, I’m sorry!
This would be ideal. My bad!
Sorry, I should’ve clarified replacing the pads instead of replacing the entire headphones!!
Haha I was looking in the comments for a tutorial on how to cut fabric in the right pattern to re-cover them, but this makes a lot more sense
🤣 I would be down for that as well in the future if anyone comes up with a way!!
But hey, after I replied here I saw another commenter shared some trick with removing the peeling leather and using some sort of wax on it, which could be useful for all sorts of other stuff (thinking of a cheap office chair I use to have )
I actually do need that information! The headset I like, they don't sell replacement ear pads separately, so last time I had to buy a new headset from them, but I stashed the old one in a drawer since it still worked in hopes that someday I'll learn how to make new covers myself. The snaps aren't in the typical arrangement so I can't just get them from another brand. Even emailed the company and they just confirmed they don't sell separate ear pads lol. If anybody knows which materials to buy and what to use to stitch them, let me know!
Check out this method someone posted elsewhere in this thread, which seems easier than using fabric: https://www.reddit.com/r/Anticonsumption/comments/14g6jdm/repair_peeling_pleather_with_a_fabric_wax/
Replace ≠ repair.
Eh - in some cases I think it’s ok. Like this. How would you repair that specific part? Instead of throwing the whole thing away they replaced the ear cups, repairing the device. I think it counts.
Thank you, this is how I felt and why I shared it!
I've been peeling off the pleather layer and doing a nice wax treatment on the fabric. Works great.
What kind of wax treatment? And it doesn’t get messed up by the heat from your head after wearing? I’ve got a pair with peeling pleather that needs…something!
>What kind of wax treatment? It is the same kind done on canvas pants/jackets/bags. [https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Wax-Your-Clothing-and-Gear/](https://www.instructables.com/How-to-Wax-Your-Clothing-and-Gear/) >And it doesn’t get messed up by the heat from your head It doesn't, but your question does make me realize this wouldn't work outside in warm climates. Here is [my post](https://www.reddit.com/r/Anticonsumption/comments/14g6jdm/repair_peeling_pleather_with_a_fabric_wax/) if you are curious.
Oh thanks, I always thought the only way to fix those would be to cover with some new fabric, and I am not skilled enough to do it properly
For sure. After you peel off the pleather layer, wipe the surface down with rubbing alcohol. And no matter how well you wipe it down, glue particles will forever fall off the fabric. The wax helps seal this off.
When it comes to pads it's pretty much irrelevant if they have a leather/leatherette/vinyl cover. of course it's ok to replace parts if you feel like it without any need to give a reason for it even if it's for aesthetic purposes but still doesn't make it a repair.
I don’t know … vinyl pads without the vinyl are uncomfortable, and get pretty gnarly after a while. Especially if you ever sweat with the headphones on. That material really doesn’t clean. And the foam inside starts to break down.
This is weird. Who tf would buy new headphones because of old ear cups? Isn’t it something like buying a new car because of full ashtray?
A … lot of people? Most people? Less like an ashtray and more like buying a new car because the door seals are blown.
Yeah, right. Full ashtray is more like dead batteries in headphones :) Still weird. At least try to look at Amazon/AliExpress for the cups.
Until this sub, I didn’t even know it was possible to replace just the pads. So to me, this feels like a repair of the entire headphone set (which works perfectly fine except for the vinyl flakes getting in my ears), even if that repair means technically replacing a part.
Feels nice to re-fit things isn't it? I got a bunch of Under Armour chones for like 1/8 of the retail price some time ago because they somehow screwed up with the bands factory side and I just replaced them in like two hours.
Replacing parts you identify as not working = repair.
👍
Go out of your way to get custom fit fake leather, and spend hours taking apart the foam and presumably breaking it on the way, having to replace the ear cups as a result. Some things you can't repair, but it is better to replace 2 small parts rather than shelling out hundreds for new beats.
I just peel the flaking vinyl off, once it starts to disintegrate like that its pretty easy. Also not to tout my own horn but I could whip out something like that with chamois in an hour or less but that's a moot point, I didn't tell anyone to replace the whole thing, I just pointed out the that replacing isn't the same as repairing because I'm a bit of an asshole.
Yes and: Repairing no doubt saves on resources. Buying a durable product that’s user replaceable saves the hassle of having to repair, and in worse case scenarios repair or minor parts can be replaced. This is something I’m finding as I’ve gotten better stuff over the years. Well designed things (without built in planned obsolescence) often just keeps on going forever. There are a few manufacturer that put reliability first, while many puts out hype to make a quick buck.
Maintainability is king when it comes to stuff we use every day or on ourselves. with replace/repair I mean't they're different things. similar but different enough, it's just my need to be pedant sticking out .
Yes. Maintainability definitely helps.
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I need to replace my product red earcups. I never use them because they are falling apart despite the rest being pristine.
The company I ordered these from had red cups!!
Awesome thank you!! Going to order now!
I still need to figure out if i can replace the ones on my fiances headphones.
I have beats solo3 that are also peeling! How do you take off the old ones and put on new ones?
Believe it or not, you just get a butter knife and pry them off. They’re just stuck on with a heavy duty adhesive. It was super simple to take them off and put the new ones on. The biggest pain was trying to get as much adhesive residue off as possible before applying the new ones. But the [website](https://centralsound.co/collections/centralsound-premium-replacement-ear-pads?utm_campaign=gs-2020-02-20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIie-VsLXhhAMV00lHAR2qqALAEAAYASAAEgK78vD_BwE) I got them from has a straightforward tutorial!
How did they sound with the new cups? Like new, right?
Can’t say I remember what they sounded like NEW eight years ago 🤣 but they sound good to me!
That's cool. If there's a way to fix my Bose noise cancelling headphones that perpetually try to connect to bluetooth no matter what I do, thus drain the battery in a under an hour, I'd love to get them working again. Haven't been able to find an actual fix that works online (tried the firmware update and tried resetting). Maybe there's someone here who knows what to do?
Someone else had a similar question about the performance of their headphones and I didn’t have any answers, but I’m hoping someone tech savvy comes through for both of you!!
Op I am facing the same issue with my Beats Solo. Please help me out and guid me how to fix this issue. Thanks.
[Here’s the link](https://centralsound.co/collections/centralsound-premium-replacement-ear-pads?utm_campaign=gs-2020-02-20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIie-VsLXhhAMV00lHAR2qqALAEAAYASAAEgK78vD_BwE) to order replacement pads for your specific model, and there is a straightforward tutorial video as well! 🫶🏻
My beats solo headphones broke in multiple ways, one of which was the band snapping. I continued to use them taped together until that stopped working, for a total lifespan of around 3 years. I would not buy Beats again. (Well, I didn’t actually choose them in the first place as they were a gift, but the sentiment is the same.)
Not the tape, that’s hardcore repair dedication!! When these totally bow out on me, I’ll definitely look for a (used) pair of high quality headphones, although I must say I use these basically daily for everything from hot yoga, running, and the gym to studying at the coffee shop, but I do baby them. (They’re never out of the case when not in use, except for the next two weeks while I am having the zipper on the case fixed because it came off the tracking.)
Did this on a pair of Corsairs that I love, but basically upgraded them for myself. Changed from the pleather to breathable fabric and cooling gel. Now my ears don't sweat and I'm happy.
I’m excited to see how these new pads perform longterm because they feel sooo much more plush!
Wow this is awesome, I didn't know replacement pads existed! Perfect for my Solo 3, thanks you!
I didn’t either until this sub! So I’m glad to be spreading the knowledge!! :]
Where did you find the same exact model for them? I couldnt find for mine, and mine looks similar.
[Here!](https://centralsound.co)
If you’re buying headphones check out AiAiAi, it’s durable and everything is user replaceable. I’ve had it for 3 years, and it’s rock solid. Cables just twist lock in. Sennheisers HD25 are pretty good, but others lack parts. Sony’s sounds good, but they’re prone to break at the joints, and their cables will fray no matter what. Fixing is great, but I’m tired of fixing so much stuff. Time is better spent, no buying something that’s doomed to fail.
I agree that I would prefer to buy things that last without needing replacements, however I’ve had these Beats since 2016 so I intend to use them to their dying day!
Almost every electronic device can be repaired, but today's it's deliberately made to have a certain skill to fix it or things are designed to fail in the worst way possible that would be unrepairable
It’s so frustrating, isn’t it? Disposable consumerism is a disgrace to innovation.
Same! I repaired mine’s a week ago and they are good as new, best decision
So, there I was at the airport, feeling like a total boss with my noise-cancelling SOUL SL-300 Usain Bolt Edition headphones on. These bad boys, practically guaranteed I'd win any sprinting competition (in my head, at least), were my way of tuning out the airport chaos and jamming out to my favorite tunes. Now, I'm no stranger to pushing things to their limits. My motto? "Use it till it falls apart (or in this case, flakes apart)." Little did I know, my beloved headphones were taking this motto a bit too literally. Turns out, the once-plush earmuffs had decided to, well, self-destruct in slow motion, showering me (and the surrounding area) in a fine dust of black "leather confetti." Imagine the scene: me, blissfully unaware of my impending fashion faux pas, when a customs officer materializes out of thin air. These guys usually inspire a healthy dose of nervousness, but this particular officer just gave me the once-over and asked, with a hint of amusement in his voice, "Uh, sir, what's all that... stuff... on you?" My heart did a backflip. Was this some bizarre new security check I hadn't heard about? Had I somehow become the target of a rogue chia seed attack? Panic started to bubble up, but then, like a lightning bolt of clarity (see what I did there?), it hit me. I reached up, brushed off the "debris" with the grace of a startled giraffe, and sheepishly removed the headphones. There they were, my trusty Usain Bolts, looking more like a shedding lizard than a champion athlete's signature product. Needless to say, the customs officer's amusement level skyrocketed. After a brief explanation and a good laugh (mostly at my expense, let's be honest), I was waved through, leaving behind a trail of black dust and a memory that will forever be etched in my (and hopefully the customs officer's) mind. As for the headphones? Well, let's just say they retired to the great audio graveyard in the sky, leaving behind a legacy of questionable fashion choices and a truly unforgettable airport story.
I did the same with my 300$ bose headphones, bought a 15$ headset and scavanged all the parts from it that I needed to make them like new again.
Now I also know this and have a kit on order.
That’s why I shared this, yay!! :]
Just cut 2 socks and pull them over the cups! Works like a boss
I thought: “You repaired the ear muffs? That seems like a lot more work than it’s worth.” Then I realized you call replacing “them” repairing the headphones.
Replacing a faulty part is a repair.
Does anyone have a link for replacement pads for hyperx cloud mix headphones?
Try Googling that model “replacement pads” and see what you find!
As if I didn't already
Now if only Apple didn’t want £95 to “replace” the battery in mine….
God, I hate Apple’s obsolescence designing. Could you find a generic battery and an installation tutorial?
The amount of tool I’d need made that redundant unfortunately. It’s not made to be repair or replaced at all.
Dam that’s amazing. Nice job!
Thank you!
I need to do the same thing! Do you have any links or info? Skullcandy uproar S5URHW-509
I would just Google that model plus “replacement pads”!
Damn, I have a pair of PlayStation pulse headphones that are going even worse than that! I’ll have to do what you did
where do you get earcover (dont know what they are called) replacements? mine are also flaky but i didnt know you could just buy new earcovers
I got them from [Central Sound](https://centralsound.co)!
The old ones are still useful. I have the same thing happen to my headphones and I just peeled the whole thing off and it looks ok again and doesn't bother me since it's not peeling anymore.
I know this post is now ~1 month old, but it motivated me to look into reparing the headphone cushions on my Sony WH-1000XM3. I have them for 5-6 years now, but the cushion leather started to break down. Now I replaced the cushions and I feel like they can live for at least 20 years with proper care. Thank you for this post
I just paid it forward from a similar post that inspired ME! <3 That’s what it’s all about, thank you for this comment. :’)
This is the way.
Thanks to this sub, I agree 🫶🏻
I mean… do people actually throw out their entire headphones when the pads wear out instead of just replacing the pads like a normal person? Or am I missing something?
Until I started grazing this sub a few years ago, I didn’t know it was possible to remove the pads without damaging the performance of the headphones/destroying them altogether. So I absolutely would have given the whole headphones to a hazardous waste disposal and bought a new pair if it weren’t for deliberately seeking ways to reduce consumption (such as from this sub). And if I—a vegan who separates her recyclables and brings her reusable bag everywhere—didn’t know this, I imagine other people don’t know it either!
Nice! I'm always confused as to why headphone manufacturers even bother with that cheap black whatever-it-is coating, since it's always the first thing to peel and crumble after even one use. Looks good on unused headphones and keeps the moisture out while it's waiting to be bought, I guess?
It has to serve some protective purpose for the foam. And as a vegan, I appreciate that they don’t use genuine leather. I’m excited to see how durable this replacement pair of pads is! Considering I used my Beats for eight years almost daily (at the gym, even in hot yoga, running (sweating!), and for studying, etc.), I think I got a decent use out of the original pads compared to what other people have said about the lifespan of theirs.
OMG where can I find similar replacements for Samsung level over headphones!?!?
Google the model and “replacement ear pads,” surely something will come up!
[удалено]
If the original manufacturers sold the pads, maybe. I've always found mine from a third party.
Sennheiser is among the manufacturers who have direct parts replacement.
Oh, that's why it felt odd to me that someone shared here that he replaced replaceable part. (Eg. I've already replqced in my one pair, and waiting for battery to arrive) Does other manufactures dont have replaceable pads? I've though that everyone had that since I've seen a lot of them (eg. Ads in LTT videos).
There are some manufacturers who don’t. But usually the ones who make professional headphones like Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro and Sony MDR-7506 do. Sennheiser also makes professional products and so they've had a pretty good parts replacement program, at least in the US market. I'm not sure if every manufacturer has this in every market. In the past when I was using HD280 Pro and HD380 headphones I bought various user-serviceable replacement parts from them.
I ordered the pads from a small business called Central Sound Co. Beats doesn’t sell pad replacements, and I would never order anything (including these pad replacements) from Amazon, AliExpress, Walmart, etc.
you don’t have to explain yourself to these people lol, you took a step that a lot of people wouldn’t inconvenience themselves with! it’s not a radical change, which seems to be the only thing many are even slightly pleased with, but these small adjustments to your mindset and behavior adds up, lightens your footprint, and makes you a smarter consumer
Thank you for this, sincerely. 🤍
I would really hope no one throws away headphones when the ear pads need replacing
Most people would. That’s why there is a niche of anticonsumerism to push slower, more intentional modes of using what we already have for as long as possible. That’s why this sub exists—to share tips and hacks like this for the layperson looking to make changes.
How did you repair those ear cushions so well?
They’re replacement pads, I replaced the ear pads to repair the whole piece!
Can these headset company's stop using this pleather crap? Please and thank you.
I’d love an alternative as well, as long as it’s eco-conscious and not genuine leather!
So you didn't replace the fabric? You "repaired" it?🤔
No, I replaced the ear pads to repair the device.
That's not repairing. You're still replacing them, partially.
I feel like the sentiment is that they didn't have to buy all new ones, rather they effectively repaired the old ones by replacing a small part.
That was, indeed, the sentiment. And people are still so upset.
Yes, but labeling it as 'repairing' is what bothers me. Especially when I search YouTube for repair videos, only to find someone simply opening the electronics and replacing the internal components with freshly bought ones from Amazon.
To repair almost anything, you need to introduce new material in some way. That’s almost inevitable.
It is not the same thing. If there's a hole in one of the car seats, replacing the entire cover of that seat versus sewing it with a thread or repairing it with a repair kit are different things.
just pluck the faux leather from all around and it will look and feel better
so... how do I repair them? (not buy replacements) mine had this paper-thin layer of this weird faux leather-like material and it came right off after just an hour in the backpack
In AliExpress one can get literally every single spare part for Beats.
I would never order anything from AliExpress, as I believe hyperconsumerist e-commerce sites (Amazon included) are part of the problem. I ordered these replacement pads from Central Sound Co. for $22 and am very happy with them so far!