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I use the ubiquitous Sennheiser MD-280 and Sony MDR-7506 headphones but the coverings on the ear and head foam seem to disintegrate rather rapidly.
This shows the earpads completely gone on one set and the headfoam part degrading (blurry) on another.

These headphones are great for what I need them for but I really can't stand that they are falling apart. Is there anything I can to to prolong their life or are there some cans I can buy that won't have this problem?

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RemyRAD Wed, 07/09/2008 - 23:56

I can't find those liquid filled ear cushions for my numerous pairs of KOSS PRO4AA's either? What gives? I mean WTF? It was bad enough when they leaked down the side of my neck while trying to mix. At least they should have the courtesy of replacements awaiting me? But no.

I can however obtain a new headband. New ear cushions. New ear cushions foam inserts. New cable. All of which I need. For my West German, Sennheiser HD545's (made in Ireland. Right. That's what I said?) More than $100 in parts and certainly more than the cost of what I paid for the headphones originally ($10 at a flea market in Fort Lauderdale in early 2000. So I guess I got my money's worth?).

Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my.......
Ms. Remy Ann David

RemyRAD Thu, 07/10/2008 - 00:13

Actually, I think you could take some Silicone caulking (your choice of clear, white, black, blue, red, silver or mixed together to create new colors, at Home Depot. You can do it. They can't help.) carefully spread over your old deteriorating foam cushions, should be both comfortable, pliable & provide a good Seal. Just make sure you don't kiss a Rose unless she says OK.

WARNING! ALLOW TO DRY FOR 24 HOURS BEFORE WEARING. That is, unless you are doing heavy metal in which case, put the headphones on immediately after applying.

I CAN'T HEAR YOU!
Ms. Remy Ann David

moonbaby Fri, 07/11/2008 - 03:25

Are you using these in the studio or live? The 7506's are OK for live but are too bright to record with, IMO. The 280's sound better, but Sennheiser's newer gear isn't very tough. I would suggest Grado SR-80 phones in the $100 range. They sound great and are very comfortable. Plus, Grado sells parts for them and they don't rip you off in the process.

anonymous Fri, 07/25/2008 - 13:19

AKG, Audio Technica and Beyer are my favorite.

It also depends on what your record, how loud you expect the talent level to be and consequently, the level of isolation you need.

Usually, you'd have at least one pair with super-isolation for louder instruments and/or people who really like to listen to their cans LOUD and then, a pair for more subtle work.

For example, when I record my classical guitar(s) I like to hear a bit of the live instrument sound so, I actually use semi-open cans in that situation but, I also listen to the tracks at a volume that doesn't interfere with the mics in the booth.