Ear pads are the part of your headphones that touch your head, and they do more than just provide comfort. Over time, the material can degrade from sweat, dust, moisture and even UV exposure. According to beyerdynamic’s ear pad guide, worn pads often no longer fit properly, which can break the acoustic seal and let air escape. This directly affects sound quality: low-frequency sounds may no longer be directed straight into your ear, leading to a noticeable reduction in bass, and the foam filling can lose its shape, altering the balance across mid-range and treble. If the pads look flat, the velour or artificial leather is scuffed, or the headphones feel less comfortable, it is time to consider a replacement.

Before you start: Steps vary by headphone model. Always check your manufacturer’s manual for model-specific instructions.

General method: removing and attaching ear pads

While every headphone is different, many over-ear models share a similar replacement process. Audio-Technica’s support article for its M-Series “x” headphones describes three steps: hold the ear cup and pull the old ear pad off, slide the new pad’s flange into the slot on the ear cup (rotating the pad slightly can help it seat), then gently stretch the flange over the slot wherever necessary until the pad is secure. Audio-Technica notes that both ear pads should be replaced at the same time, and that some models, such as the ATH-M70x, use a different form of attachment with their own replacement pads.

The company’s guide for ATH-R70x headphones adds a few details. Pinch the inner and outer sections of the old pad and lift straight up. Leave the foam ring around the driver in place, because it is not included with new pads. Tell left from right by the extra material beside the stitched seam, align the seam with the jack on the bottom of the ear cup, then stretch the side with more material over the plastic flange first and work your way around until the pad is held securely.

beyerdynamic PRO headphone ear pad replacement

beyerdynamic provides detailed steps for its PRO series headphones, and the process differs slightly between model families. The company’s how-to article and support documentation outline the following procedures.

PRO Classics (DT 770, 880, 990 PRO and DT 1770, 1990 PRO, Custom Series)

For these models, you will need a hair dryer (for DT 770/880/990 PRO only), a flat-head screwdriver or the handle of a kitchen fork, and new ear pads compatible with your model. First, adjust the headband to its largest size. On DT 770/880/990 PRO, pull the old ear pad over the rim of the housing. On DT 1770/1990 PRO and Custom Series, carefully detach the ear pad from the retaining ring.

Next, remove the clamping ring. Insert the screwdriver or fork handle between the clamping ring and the housing, then lift it off. Take out the old foam disc. If there is dust or dirt, blow it away or wipe with a dry microfibre cloth. Place the new foam disc (included with the ear pad set) onto the system cover, then reinsert the clamping ring so that its nose aligns with the recess in the housing and press it into position.

For DT 770/880/990 PRO, warming the rubber rim of the new ear pad with a hair dryer on a moderate setting makes it more flexible. Starting on one side, gradually pull the ear pad over the edge of the housing. Once the rim is over the housing all around, rotate the ear cup to check that the pad is attached correctly. For DT 1770/1990 PRO and Custom Series, thread the rubber rim of the new pad over the groove at the top of the ear cup and rotate the pad in the direction of the arrow until the rim is fully behind the retaining ring.

DT 270 PRO

The DT 270 PRO uses an elastic faux-leather ring to secure the pad. Grip the pad by its outer edge and pull the mounting ring off the rim of the ear cup bit by bit. To install the new pad, locate the molded plastic lip and place it first into the groove on the housing. Rotate the pad clockwise and guide the remaining part of the mounting ring evenly over the ear cup until everything sits firmly. Gently twist the pad to ensure the ring has fully clicked into place and is seated properly.

PRO X series (DT 700 PRO X, DT 900 PRO X, and similar)

beyerdynamic designed the PRO X series so that ear pad replacement requires no additional tools. The old pads can be pulled off by hand, and the new pads snap directly onto the ear cup. The company’s guide notes that a clear click confirms the pad is securely attached. No screwdrivers or hair dryers are needed.

Use pads made for your specific model

beyerdynamic’s ear pad guide stresses that the material and shape of ear pads are chosen for each headphone model to achieve the intended comfort and sound signature. Replacing artificial leather pads with velour ones, for example, can alter the contact pressure and change the acoustic seal, which may negatively affect bass response and overall balance. The company advises using original replacement parts from the manufacturer. Third-party pads may not fit the ear cups as precisely, and that can result in poorer sound quality and reduced comfort. Audio-Technica’s support articles similarly direct users to purchase replacement pads designed for their specific model.

Quick checklist before and after replacement

  • Identify your headphone model and locate the correct replacement ear pads.
  • Gather any tools mentioned in your model’s manual (for some beyerdynamic PRO Classics, a hair dryer and a flat-head screwdriver or fork handle).
  • Work on a clean, flat surface and handle the headphones gently to avoid damaging the drivers or cables.
  • Remove the old pads and any foam discs or clamping rings as directed.
  • Clean any exposed dust or debris with a dry microfibre cloth.
  • Install the new foam disc and clamping ring (if present) before attaching the new pad.
  • Attach the new pad by seating its lip or rim evenly into the groove or over the housing, then rotate to check the fit.
  • Confirm that the pad is secure and that left and right sides are correct.
  • After replacement, listen to familiar audio to verify that the sound is balanced and the seal feels consistent.

For more on keeping your headphones in good shape, see our guides on cleaning ear pads and how to clean headphones safely. If you are unsure about fit or comfort, the ear pads comfort section offers additional background.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know when ear pads need replacing?

According to beyerdynamic, the most obvious signs are visible wear such as flattened or scuffed material, a loss of comfort, and a change in sound quality. If the headphones no longer seal properly against your head, you may notice reduced bass and an uneven tonal balance. The exact timing depends on usage, storage conditions, and exposure to moisture and UV light, so there is no single interval that applies to everyone.

Can I use third-party ear pads instead of original ones?

beyerdynamic’s ear pad guide cautions that replacement parts from third-party suppliers often do not fit as precisely as originals, which can compromise the acoustic seal and alter the sound. The material is matched to each model for both comfort and audio performance, so switching to a different material or a non-original pad may negatively affect what you hear. Audio-Technica’s support pages likewise list which replacement pads fit which models.

Do I need special tools to replace ear pads?

It depends on the headphone model. For many beyerdynamic PRO Classics, a hair dryer helps soften the rubber rim, and a flat-head screwdriver or kitchen fork handle is used to remove the clamping ring. The DT 270 PRO requires no tools beyond your hands. The PRO X series is designed to be replaced without any tools at all. Audio-Technica’s M-Series and R70x guides describe the process by hand, without listing tools. Always consult your headphone’s manual for the recommended method.

For step-by-step instructions tailored to different headphone models, visit our Replacing Ear Pads category page.

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