HD800S - Loose Ear Pad

Hi all,

I've just earlier today noticed an issue with my HD800S'. The left ear pad is loose where it connects to its support (where the 'L' indication letter is). The pad has quite a lot of pitch, especially compared to the right ear pad, easily allowing for the pad to rub up against the plastic frame above it.

The headphones are just shy of 3 years old, so a bit out of warranty. I'm the only owner, so I know they haven't been dropped or experienced some kind of impact, but they have seen a lot of use, so I'm betting on wear and tear.

Does anyone have any experience or knowledge with the issue, and a possible solution? I've done some light searching, but not found any threads relating to this specific problem.

Senn customer support is always on the table, but I thought I'd exhaust you lot before I approach that option.

If any additional info is required, I'll provide it upon request. Cheers in advance!

 

1. It would've been better to have posted in this thread instead - https://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/the-hd800-hd800s-thread.206/

2. You might just need a pad swap, which doesn't need repair. Just find the part number you need and order it from Senn! Simple as that. If you think there's damage, pictures would probably be helpful.

 

Apologies for the misplaced/redundant thread. I was hoping my absolutely stellar description would paint a picture by itself, since my phone was broke for images, but I've managed to hunt down a camera to get some images of the issue.



Sorry if the images are too large and what not, I'm a bit too inexperienced with posting images on forums and the according procedures/etiquette for image sizing.

I noticed the paint chip in Image 3, then then quickly figured out it developed by chafing up against the frame like in Image 2. On a whole, the headphones work just fine, but I'm not sure if the already loose joint is going to deteriorate faster, and cause operation problems.

P.S Yes, I really need to clean my headphones

 

Have you examined the hinge to see whether it's broken or its screws are loose? This video shows the hinge very clearly, starting at 8:54:

 

Hi fastfwd, cheers for the reply!

I can confirm that the issue was loose screws at that joint. That being said, the screws were still quite tight, but I've tightened up as much as I'm comfortable doing as to not bottom out, and its pretty much resolved the issue. It's still not as good at the other cup, but I'm certain there's a tad bit of wear going on to let it articulate that extra mm or two.

Regardless, I'm at peace knowing it's a verrrry minor mechanical issue, and not something that could potential impact wiring etc down the line. Like the cable cladding splitting below both the left and right plugs... (a few weeks before the end of warranty fortunately).

Now I'm gonna do a 360 and walk away swiftly, before I find myself doing mental gymnastics to justify upgrading my amp, dac and possibly headphones...

Cheers!

 

Lucky you. Keep an eye out for a good deal on a replacement cable; the one you have will split again in a couple years.

 

Ignorance was Bliss!

Damn, I just checked out my HD800s, and that hinge has a fair amount of wrong-axis play in it on one side. I should investigate those screws.

But I really don't want to take the pads off. I bought the 'phones (well-)used and changed the headband and pads. Getting the new pads on was not easy: the newer ones seem to be slightly smaller, and the band that holds them in place had to be stretched. As in really stretched, with a pair of pliers.