Wooden Headphone Stand and Earpad Upgrades Reviewed

A wooden headphone stand is one of those small details that sits on your desk every day, quietly doing its job while your headphones rest between sessions. Three years in, I’ve come to think of it as part of the overall listening setup, not just furniture. But while stands get the aesthetic attention, the earpads underneath your headphones are doing something far more important: shaping comfort, seal, and in some cases, how your headphones actually sound.

This guide covers earpad upgrades across the most common mid-fi headphone families, because earpads are the one accessory I’ve come to take seriously in a way I didn’t expect. For more setup ideas and gear recommendations, browse the full Accessories hub.

Why Earpads Deserve More Attention Than They Get

If you’ve owned a pair of open-backs for more than a year, you already know the feeling. The pads compress, the velour pills, and something about the sound feels a little less right than it used to. I noticed this on my HD600 around the 18-month mark. Replacing the worn stock pads with fresh Sennheiser replacements changed the seal noticeably, and the perceived low-frequency extension came back in a way I hadn’t realized I was missing. That experience reframed how I think about pads entirely.

The earpad is the interface between your ear and the driver. Depth, material, compliance, and inner diameter all affect how the frequency response reaches you. This is why pad-swapping on the HiFiMan Sundara, for example, is discussed so extensively across Head-Fi and Resolve Reviews. Changing the pad geometry changes the acoustic volume around the driver. It’s not subtle in the way cable swaps are debated as subtle. It’s measurable, and it matters.

Worth noting: I’m explicitly skeptical of cable upgrade claims below a meaningful quality threshold. But earpad swaps are a different category. The acoustic effects are real and have been documented in measurements across ASR and Crinacle’s pad-swap comparisons. That said, “real” doesn’t always mean “better for your headphone.” Some pad swaps improve comfort while shifting the sound in directions you may not prefer. That’s why measurement awareness matters before committing.

The Earpad Upgrade Landscape

The current upgrade earpad market divides cleanly into three tiers. At the budget end, you have universal-fit pads from brands like Brainwavz, which offer material improvements over stock foam at accessible prices. In the mid tier, Dekoni Audio has built the most comprehensive Amazon-available lineup for specific headphone families. At the premium end, ZMF Headphones offers handcrafted pads in suede, cowhide, and lambskin that are among the best materials available for the price band.

For the Sennheiser HD 6XX family and HiFiMan Sundara owners specifically, all three tiers have relevant options. This guide walks through each one with sourced community feedback and, where applicable, direct experience.

Top Picks

ZMF Universe Earpads for Headphones

The ZMF Universe Earpads are the pad I have personal experience with, fitted to both my HD600 and my Sundara (2020 revision). ZMF offers these in multiple materials including suede, cowhide, and lambskin, each with a different feel against the skin and a slightly different acoustic character.

On the HD600, the Universe pads in lambskin give a noticeably more luxurious contact feel compared to the stock velour. The stock Sennheiser pads have a coarser texture that some people find irritating during long sessions, especially in warm weather. The lambskin Universe pads are soft enough that the headphone becomes much more comfortable over multi-hour listens. The sound changes are subtle, not dramatic. The mid-tier pricing is real, and this is primarily a comfort and material upgrade rather than a frequency response overhaul.

On the Sundara, the Universe pads changed the seal slightly compared to the stock HiFiMan pads. Based on community reports across Head-Fi and Resolve Reviews threads, Sundara pad-swapping results are variable enough that I’d encourage measuring or at least doing careful A/B listening before committing. My own experience matched that warning: the bass felt marginally warmer, but the change was modest enough that I wouldn’t describe it as a correction.

If you are an HD 600/650 or Sundara owner wanting a genuine material upgrade with ZMF’s handcrafted quality, the Universe pads are a legitimate choice. They are not going to fix a poorly tuned headphone, but they will make a well-tuned one more comfortable for long sessions.

Check current price on Amazon.

ZMF Verite Earpads Premium Headphone Earpads

The ZMF Verite Earpads represent the larger, deeper-cup end of ZMF’s earpad lineup. Designed originally for the ZMF Verite headphone, these pads feature a wider and deeper cup geometry compared to the Universe design, which some owners with larger ears find significantly more comfortable.

Based on owner reports at zmfheadphones.com and across Head-Fi’s ZMF owner threads, the Verite earpads can be adapted to Sennheiser and HiFiMan headphones using ZMF’s adapter rings. The deeper cup creates more space between the driver and the ear, which owners report as increasing perceived soundstage width on HD 650 and similar headphones. This is consistent with what acoustic geometry would predict: more air volume around the ear changes the reflective path.

The important caveat here is availability. ZMF earpads are sold direct through zmfheadphones.com and routinely sell out, particularly in popular materials like suede. Verified buyers on ZMF’s own forums note that build quality is excellent but lead times and stock availability require patience. If you need something this week, Dekoni’s Amazon lineup is the more practical path.

Check current price on Amazon.

ZMF Auteur Classic Earpads

The ZMF Auteur Classic Earpads are designed for the ZMF Auteur Classic headphone but, like the Verite pads, can be adapted to other headphones using ZMF’s ring system. ZMF’s own documentation and the Head-Fi ZMF megathread both confirm compatibility with the HD 6XX family and some HiFiMan models with appropriate rings.

Field reports from ZMF headphone owners indicate the Auteur pads have a slightly firmer internal structure compared to the Verite pads, which some owners prefer for maintaining consistent geometry over time. The material options are consistent across ZMF’s lineup: suede, cowhide, and lambskin, each with measurably different compliance and wear characteristics.

For anyone already invested in ZMF’s headphone ecosystem or saving toward something like the ZMF Atrium (consensus flagship territory that I have not personally heard), the Auteur pads represent the same handcrafted standard in a geometry tuned for a different cup design. Availability is again the limiting factor: direct purchase through ZMF’s site is required, and stock moves quickly in preferred materials.

Check current price on Amazon.

Dekoni Audio Elite Hybrid Earpads for Sennheiser HD600 HD650 HD660S HD6XX

The Dekoni Audio Elite Hybrid Earpads for Sennheiser are the most accessible premium earpad upgrade for the HD 6XX family, available on Amazon Prime and consistently in stock. The Elite Hybrid design combines a velour face surface with a sheepskin outer ring and a memory foam core, which Dekoni positions as a balance between the breathability of velour and the seal improvement of leather.

Verified buyer reviews across Amazon and Head-Fi’s HD600/HD650 threads consistently report improved comfort over stock pads, particularly for sessions longer than two hours. The memory foam conforms differently than Sennheiser’s stock foam, which some users find more forgiving on the top of the outer ear.

The sound caveat here is real and worth stating clearly. Dekoni’s own product page and multiple Head-Fi measurements confirm that the Elite Hybrid pads do change the HD600’s frequency response compared to stock velour. The changes are primarily in bass weight and some upper-midrange detail. For measurement data, I defer to what ASR and Crinacle’s pad comparison resources show. My recommendation: if you’re upgrading for comfort, the Elite Hybrid pads are a well-regarded, readily available option. If you love your HD600’s stock tuning precisely, do some research on the sonic tradeoff before committing.

Check current price on Amazon.

Dekoni Audio Elite Hybrid Earpads for HiFiMan Sundara HE-400i

The Dekoni Audio Elite Hybrid Earpads for HiFiMan Sundara follow the same Elite Hybrid construction as the HD 6XX version but are cut and sized for HiFiMan’s oval cup geometry. Sundara-specific fit matters here because universal pads on HiFiMan headphones often fail to seal properly around the angular driver housing.

Sundara earpad swapping is one of the more documented cases in the mid-fi community for pad-induced sound changes. Field reports from Head-Fi’s Sundara owner thread and Resolve Reviews’ coverage both confirm that changing the pad depth and material on the Sundara can shift bass extension and treble energy noticeably. Dekoni’s Elite Hybrid pads tend to add bass warmth compared to stock, which some owners find welcome and others find muddying.

The practical upsides are the same as the HD 6XX version: Amazon Prime availability, consistent stock, and a well-documented hybrid material construction. Verified buyers report the memory foam core as a genuine comfort improvement over HiFiMan’s stock pads, which are thin by premium headphone standards. Measurement awareness before committing is the right approach on the Sundara specifically.

Check current price on Amazon.

Dekoni Audio Elite Sheepskin Earpads for Beyerdynamic DT Series

The Dekoni Audio Elite Sheepskin Earpads for Beyerdynamic DT Series are designed for the DT 770, DT 880, and DT 990 families, providing direct fit without adapter rings. Full sheepskin construction throughout the pad face and sides distinguishes this option from the hybrid designs, offering a more complete leather isolation feel.

Beyerdynamic’s stock pads on the DT series are a particular mixed case: the velour is soft but the geometry varies across models and generations. Verified buyers across Amazon’s DT 990 Pro review threads note that the Dekoni sheepskin pads improve isolation meaningfully, which changes the character of an already analytical headphone. The DT 990 Pro’s stock treble presentation, which is bright even by measurement standards, is affected by the sheepskin seal: bass increases with the better seal, and the perceived treble energy shifts relative to the elevated low end.

For DT series owners who find the stock pads worn or uncomfortable after extended use, the Elite Sheepskin is a well-built upgrade available through Amazon. Be prepared for an altered sound signature and listen carefully before concluding whether the change suits your preferences.

Check current price on Amazon.

Dekoni Audio Elite Velour Earpads for Audeze LCD Series

The Dekoni Audio Elite Velour Earpads for Audeze LCD Series address one of the most common comfort complaints about the LCD line: the stock leather pads, while acoustically capable, can become warm and uncomfortable during sessions longer than an hour. Velour breathes where leather does not.

I heard the LCD-X briefly at a Texas Audio Society meetup (roughly 20 minutes, not ownership), so field reports are more relevant here than my limited experience. Verified Audeze LCD-2 and LCD-X owners on Head-Fi and the Audeze subreddit consistently report that the Dekoni Elite Velour pads reduce heat buildup significantly. The tradeoff is acoustic seal. Velour does not seal as completely as leather, and bass response in planar magnetic headphones is sensitive to seal quality.

For LCD owners who find the stock leather pads uncomfortable for long sessions but don’t want to compromise on Audeze’s characteristic low-end weight, this tradeoff requires honest evaluation. The community consensus across Head-Fi’s LCD owner threads is that the velour pads are a comfort upgrade with an acoustic compromise rather than a pure improvement.

Check current price on Amazon.

Brainwavz Hybrid Memory Foam Earpad Black PU/Velour Large Over-Ear

The Brainwavz Hybrid Memory Foam Earpad is the budget-tier starting point for anyone wanting to upgrade from stock foam without committing to mid-tier pricing. The HM5-style pad uses a PU leather face with a velour center and memory foam core, and it has been a community recommendation for budget-tier headphone upgrades across multiple brands for years.

Compatibility is broad. Budget head-fi threads on Reddit and Head-Fi cite successful use on AKG K-series, older HiFiMan models, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and various other large over-ear headphones. The universal design means some headphones require more careful mounting, and verified buyers note that fit security varies by headphone model. The memory foam itself is soft and conforms well, which owners consistently rate as a meaningful comfort improvement over rigid stock foam.

Sound changes from the Brainwavz pads depend heavily on what you’re replacing. On the ATH-M50x, which I own, the stock pads are serviceable but not particularly luxurious. Community reports suggest the Brainwavz hybrid pads improve comfort noticeably on the M50x at budget-tier pricing. For anyone starting their earpad upgrade research, this is a low-risk entry point.

Check current price on Amazon.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Earpad Upgrades

Understanding Pad Materials and What They Do

Earpad materials divide into a few core categories: velour, leather variants (PU, cowhide, lambskin, sheepskin), and hybrid combinations. Each has different acoustic and comfort implications, and the right choice depends on your headphone and your use case. Velour breathes well and maintains a lighter contact feel, making it the preferred option for warm listening environments or users prone to heat buildup. Full leather or sheepskin options typically improve seal, which raises bass presence and lowers ambient noise bleed. Hybrid designs attempt a middle ground.

Material quality varies significantly across price bands. Budget PU leather and velour options are functional but wear faster than premium natural leathers. At the mid tier, ZMF’s lambskin and suede options and Dekoni’s sheepskin are noticeably softer and more durable than budget materials. For anyone researching headphone accessories more broadly, the Accessories hub covers related gear topics across price bands.

Headphone-Specific Fit vs. Universal Pads

Headphone-specific pads designed for your model mount correctly and maintain the geometry the headphone was tuned with. Universal pads, while often less expensive and more broadly compatible, can introduce mounting problems and unpredictable acoustic changes. For the HD 6XX family and HiFiMan Sundara, headphone-specific options from Dekoni and ZMF are preferable to universal options.

ZMF’s adapter ring system extends their pad lineup to multiple headphone families while maintaining a secure fit. This is a practical solution for owners of less-common headphones who still want ZMF-quality materials. Universal pads like the Brainwavz HM5-style are best suited to headphones without dedicated upgrade options.

Sound Changes: Expect Them, Measure When Possible

This is the part that trips up first-time pad-swappers. Pad depth, inner diameter, and material all affect how sound reaches the ear. A deeper pad moves the driver farther from the ear and typically increases perceived soundstage width while slightly softening treble. A denser, more sealed material increases bass weight and can change upper-midrange energy.

For measurement-aware buyers, checking ASR’s pad comparison data or Crinacle’s relevant headphone reviews before committing to a swap is worthwhile. I defer to those resources for precise frequency response data. My experience with my HD600 pads reinforced this: even a same-brand pad replacement changed the low end noticeably when the old pads were compressed and no longer sealing correctly.

Budget Planning and Availability

Mid-tier pads from Dekoni are reliably available on Amazon Prime, which matters if you need a quick replacement. ZMF pads require direct ordering from zmfheadphones.com, sell out regularly, and may involve a wait in popular materials. Budget this time into your decision if you’re choosing ZMF.

Budget-tier options from Brainwavz are low-risk entry points for headphones without specific upgrade pad support. If you later decide the sound or feel isn’t right, you haven’t committed a large amount to the experiment. For mid-fi headphones like the HD600 or Sundara where you’ve already invested meaningfully, stepping up to Dekoni or ZMF is typically worth the price difference in material quality and durability.

When to Prioritize Comfort vs. Sound Tuning

Some pad upgrades are primarily comfort choices. ZMF’s lambskin pads are softer than stock velour, and that’s a real quality-of-life improvement for long sessions, regardless of the subtle sound differences. Dekoni’s velour option on Audeze LCD headphones is explicitly a comfort trade: you get cooler ear contact but give up some bass seal.

Other pad swaps are genuinely tuning decisions. The Dekoni Elite Hybrid on the Sundara changes the frequency response measurably, and some users specifically choose it to adjust the Sundara’s stock sound profile. Be honest with yourself about which category your decision falls into, and research the specific outcome for your headphone model before buying.

Closing Thoughts

Earpad upgrades sit in an interesting place in the audiophile accessory landscape. They’re not the kind of upgrade that gets the same marketing energy as a new DAC or a flagship headphone, but the effect on daily listening comfort is often more immediate than either. Three years in, I’ve learned to treat fresh, correctly-fitted pads as maintenance, and to treat genuine material upgrades as a meaningful part of the listening setup. For anyone building out a desk listening rig, the earpad layer deserves honest attention alongside the source chain.

For related gear coverage across stand options, cables, and other setup accessories, the full gear and accessories section has additional guides worth browsing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do earpad upgrades actually change the sound of my headphones?

Yes, and it is worth taking seriously. Pad material, depth, and inner diameter all affect the acoustic volume between driver and ear, which measurably shifts frequency response. The seal quality determines bass presence, while pad depth tends to affect treble energy and perceived soundstage. For measurement data on specific headphone and pad combinations, ASR and Crinacle’s reviews are the most reliable references.

Are ZMF earpads worth the price over Dekoni for an HD 600 or Sundara?

The honest answer depends on what you’re optimizing for. ZMF pads use premium natural materials (lambskin, suede, cowhide) that are noticeably softer and more durable than synthetic alternatives. Dekoni pads offer solid mid-tier quality with easier availability through Amazon Prime. If you want the best material feel and are willing to order direct from ZMF with potential stock waits, ZMF is the premium choice.

How do I know if my current earpads need replacing?

Compressed foam is the clearest indicator. Press the pad gently and check whether it rebounds fully. Stock velour pads that have pilled or flattened lose their designed depth geometry, which changes the acoustic seal and can reduce bass extension. On my HD600 around the 18-month mark, replacing flattened stock pads noticeably restored the low-frequency extension I had been missing.

Will universal earpads like Brainwavz HM5 fit my headphones?

Brainwavz HM5-style pads are compatible with a wide range of large over-ear headphones including many AKG, Audio-Technica, older HiFiMan, and other models with standard round or slightly oval cups. The mounting method varies by headphone, and some require more careful attachment than others. Verified buyers across Head-Fi and Amazon confirm fitment on specific models, so searching your headphone model alongside “HM5 pads” in those communities before purchasing will give you accurate fitment reports.

Should I buy earpads directly from ZMF or from Amazon?

For ZMF-brand pads, direct purchase from zmfheadphones.com is often the only option. ZMF does not maintain consistent Amazon stock, and third-party Amazon listings for ZMF products carry authenticity risk. Dekoni pads are the opposite: Amazon is the primary reliable channel, with consistent Prime stock and straightforward returns. Budget for the ZMF direct ordering process if you want their specific materials, and check their site stock before assuming availability in your preferred material and style combination.