BLON BossHifi B8 Wooden Headphones Discussions | Drop

Jan 3, 2019

RestaticYes, the Brainwavz Micro Suede Pads dramatically improve the B8's sound and comfort. Once replaced, you'll never go back to the stock pads - trust me.

Jan 3, 2019

PolygonBronson

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Jan 23, 2019

mattrisThanks for the pad rolling impressions. But, just to be clear, are you using Brainwavz XL round pads, Brainwavz round pads, or Brainwavz oval pads? I would assume that the ovals would fit best but I see you mention "XL" a few times throughout this thread.

Jan 23, 2019

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Jan 23, 2019

mattris @mattris I tried Geekria memory foam velour pads for the ATH-M50 and if those are just as good as the Brainwavz you are completely accurate.

Jan 23, 2019

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JoeBi

Jan 24, 2019

yogiwpI recommend the Final E3000 at $40, instead of trying to tame treble and increase bass on this ill-fitting headphone.

Jan 24, 2019

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Jan 24, 2019

PolygonBronsonYes, I was using the XL protein leather (PU) pads, but they're a bit too big for the B8 - and might come loose - so I edited my original post. My recommendation is to get the Brainwavz Oval Micro Suede Pads. If you'll be using your B8 exclusively at home, the XL Micro Suede Pads' larger ear openings offer a larger sound-stage.

Jan 24, 2019

Jan 24, 2019

CW83Yes, the B8 with Brainwavz' Velour Oval Pads is a fine combo, reducing the headphones' somewhat warm bass and showing their detailed treble in full glory - an excellent choice for orchestral music. I had never heard of the brand Geekria. I see they offer pads of various materials (linen, velvet, lint, mesh, velour, protein leather) for nearly every major headphone model... and multiple M50 (B8-size) pads... an that their velour pads are called 'lint'. Could you tell me the Amazon ASIN of your pads? I'll let you know if they look the same as Brainwavz Velour. Though, the only way to know if they sound identical is to direct-compare.

Jan 24, 2019

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Jan 24, 2019

yogiwpBrainwavz Sheepskin Leather Pads will reduce the treble, boost the bass, and narrow the sound-stage: https://www.brainwavzaudio.com/collections/headphone-pads/products/headphone-memory-foam-earpads-sheep-skin

Jan 24, 2019

Jan 24, 2019

mattris @mattris the ASIN is B06Y52DSYX. How many pads do you have anyway?

Jan 24, 2019

Jan 24, 2019

JoeBiWhat a strange recommendation (an IEM) in the discussion of a large, over-ear headphone. My alternative headphone recommendation would be the Sivga SV006, a close relative of the B8... but brighter, bassier, with a more narrow sound-stage, and perhaps with tighter bass.

Jan 24, 2019

Jan 24, 2019

CW83Thanks for letting me know. Are those pads suede-like (firm, soft) or velour (very thin cloth)? I have roughly a dozen pairs of pads, including all of the Brainwavz XL models.

Jan 24, 2019

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JoeBi

Jan 24, 2019

mattrisI buy headphones to listen to music, and I was pointing out that you can get much better sound for less money, and avoid the hassle of trying to retrofit marginal headphones for better sound and fit. The BLON BossHifi B8 will always be too big for medium and small heads -- and you'll have to pay shipping back to China even if they are defective!

Jan 24, 2019

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JoeBi

Jan 24, 2019

mattris" best of any sub-$200 closed-back headphone" Sorry that's hype and just not true.

Jan 24, 2019

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Jan 25, 2019

JoeBiI said, "among the best". You said, "you can get much better sound for less money" Examples... that aren't IEMs?

Jan 25, 2019

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Jan 25, 2019

JoeBiThe B8 is an absolutely superb headphone for listening to music... once the pads are exchanged for Brainwavz' Micro Suede Oval Pads ($26.50). Like it or not, replacing headphones' stock pads to improve comfort and sound is commonplace... and hardly a hassle, as anyone can pad-swap in a minute or two. What do you mean by the B8 being a 'marginal headphone'? For full disclosure, my B8 was defective: its channels were reversed. But I bought them from a Chinese-based vendor on eBay and received a full refund. I corrected the channel issue with an adapter. Regarding the B8's headband, you are correct. I would not recommend them for those with smaller-sized heads.

Jan 25, 2019

Jan 25, 2019

mattrisdoesn't that cause the bass to be lost

Jan 25, 2019

Jan 25, 2019

JoeBiShouldn't you give an example what you comparing it too

Jan 25, 2019

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JoeBi

Jan 25, 2019

pkrisninThere are too far many to list, but the ATK x40 works better for me as well as KCS75. The 6xx too and prob 58x, so much better. This thing is even worse than the Sony V6 and its sibling, both harsh. tools but at least adjustable!

Jan 25, 2019

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Jan 25, 2019

pkrisninI can vouch for @mattris claims since I swap back and forth with a stock Sennheiser HD58x. For EDM I like more lively sound and that is what I get with the B8 and Geekria pads mentioned above. These pads give MORE bass then the stock pads, probably because I get a much better seal. The sound is really on par with the HD58x I would say, just a different flavour. For vocal music the HD58x will be better because of the Sennheiser tuning of sound. Then again, this is just personal preference...

(Edited)

Jan 25, 2019

Jan 25, 2019

pkrisninUsing the Brainwavz Micro Suede Oval Pads with the B8 results in a perfectly balanced sound signature. Bass is solid; not lost or bloated. Bass extension is excellent.

Jan 25, 2019

Jan 25, 2019

CW83Thanks for offering that comparison, CW83. If I wasn't already content with my open-back headphones (Sivga SV007 & Lasmex L85, both modified and EQ'd), I'd give the HD58X a shot. Could you tell me, are your Geekria pads suede-like (somewhat firm and soft) or velour (very thin, stitched cloth)?

Jan 25, 2019

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Jan 26, 2019

JoeBiI claimed that the BossHifi B8 is "among the best of any sub-$200 closed-back headphone" once you exchange their pads with Brainwavz Micro Suede Ovals. Did you exchange their pads with that model? If not, you cannot legitimately dispute me. Even discounting that fact... You said, "you can get much better sound for less money" and said the "ATK x40 works better" for you . Did you mean the ATH-M40x? Is its proprietary cable better? Did you like its finger-pinching headband... or terribly uncomfortable stock pads? I didn't... and replaced them with (pricey) Brainwavz sheepskin leather pads. All other pad models I tried resulted in a (far too) bright frequency response. Perhaps you like paying more for your headphones and pads. How is the on-ear KCS75 better than the B8? The 6XX and 58X are open-back headphones. How are they "so much better"? Even without a direct comparison, I can safely say that the B8 will provide superior listening privacy, noise isolation, and bass extension/solidity than the KCS75, HD6XX, and HD58X. How is the B8 "even worse than the Sony V6 and its sibling"? "... both harsh. tools but at least adjustable" Please elaborate. "There are too far many to list" Go ahead and name a few more headphones that you think are "better" than the B8 with suede pads.

Jan 26, 2019

Jan 26, 2019

JoeBiSounds like u are into studio monitors ?

Jan 26, 2019

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Jan 26, 2019

mattrisusing the Angled Brainwavz Sheepskin Leather Pads yeap it does boost the bass which I love and way more comfort . But now I'm curious what the microsuede will do, going to get those later.

(Edited)

Jan 26, 2019

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Jan 26, 2019

pkrisninI own the Angled Brainwavz Sheepskin Leather Pads, as well. In comparison, the Micro Suede Pads result in a wider sound-stage, less (but still extended) bass, and more mids & treble... the most-balanced and smoothest mids and treble I have ever heard from a low-cost, closed-back headphone.

Jan 26, 2019

JoeBi

Jan 26, 2019

pkrisninTo me the "Boss" is quite shrill. Admittedly, I was expecting something akin to the Fidelio X2, as claimed by the Bad Boy, but the B8 to me is far too harsh. And yes at least studio monitors can adjust to fit a variety of heads

Jan 26, 2019

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JoeBi

Jan 27, 2019

mattris I can categorically say that the B8 will NOT provide superior noise isolation and bass extension/solidity than the KCS75 or HD6XX. I'm not going to throw money into bad product to fulfill some wizzing contest, and I'm not going to pretend that this is a good product.

(Edited)

Jan 27, 2019

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Jan 27, 2019

JoeBiWhen I hear reference / studio monitors I run the other way :) , I love the sound signature for these considering the price and more so after replacing the pad with angle sheepskin pads but I would like to try the Fidelio X2. Heard good things about it too. I missed the drop and somewhat too pricey for me it's a 300 bucks set man. I have the SHP9500S that got me into HIFI headphones not a bad buy for the original price now its at the same price as the X2, leaks sound alot but its very good. Maybe u can try the micro suede pads. It should tune down the harshness if u already have the headphone. Guess I am learning to look at prices vs performance. Wasted too much money on expensive headphones, when apparently 60 bucks HP does the job for me.

(Edited)

Jan 27, 2019

Jan 27, 2019

JoeBiSo, you did not exchange your B8's pads. I did. Please keep this in mind when I make claims/comparisons. The sad truth is, most sub-$200 headphones come with ear pads that are uncomfortable and/or gimp their sound. In my experience with the Brainwavz Suede Pads, they make closed-back headphones shine. They will reduce sound-stage, but the B8 already has an extra-wide presentation, so that change is welcome. The suede pads also bring the bass in line with the treble, resulting in a headphone that sounds much like a studio monitor - very flat and clear. Using your language, the B8 is 'a tool but at least adjustable'. $59.99 + 26.50 = $86.49. At that price, I say the 'pad-swapped' B8 is the best sub-$100, wired, closed headphone... that is, if you desire a 'flat' frequency response... and have a larger-sized head. Those all-plastic Sony monitor headphones you mentioned have an attached cable, but I haven't heard them in years, so I can't compare their sound to the B8. But I would bet they would compete favorably. The ATH-M40x includes a drawstring bag and an additional (proprietary) cable. With a pad-swap, they would compete with the B8. But their disadvantages (listed above) are deal-breakers for me. You say that the retro-style on-ear KCS75 and fully open-back HD6XX have superior noise isolation and bass extension/solidity than the closed-back B8... and also that you haven't heard a pad-swapped B8. "I can categorically say" that you do not know what you're talking about. I haven't heard the KCS75 or HD6XX, but I'm familiar with their design and performance based on user reviews. I would bet my entire headphone collection that the B8 (with fully-around-ear suede pads) would provide vastly superior listening privacy. "I'm not going to throw money into bad product to fulfill some wizzing contest, and I'm not going to pretend that this is a good product." That's your opinion and your choice. You likely spent more on an inferior-sounding headphone... or one that cannot be used privately or in environments with background noise. I also cut-off all of the protective grate over the B8's drivers for a slight reduction in reflection. But for most listeners, a simple pad swap will do wonders.

(Edited)

Jan 27, 2019

JoeBi

Jan 27, 2019

mattris. Your results may differ. My copy of the B8 "Boss" are screechy wimps that don't isolate or fit. Based on my experience with lots of cheaper headphones, there are tons of better sets. I'd rather have old used versions of Phillips Uptown, UE 600, M50, other worse ones, and off course IEMs like E3000. It would have been better if Linsoul or whoever to insist on better pads and fit on their branded products. I feel this way about a lot of headphones. I'm not sure I'll ever get another KZ after the ZS5. The TRN V80 could have been a terrific product if they tamed the highs before releasing them -- but they chose to make it shovelware. Sorry if this is strident but I'm understanding the attitude of Clavinet Junkie on YT more and more. The enterprise at this URL also plays the shovel ware game at times (eg, HIFIMAN Bolt) and it's a let down.

(Edited)

Jan 27, 2019

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Jan 28, 2019

JoeBiI owned the Phillips Uptown, but it was nothing special. The UE 600 looks to be an older-model, above average $100 IEM, but like the E3000, can hardly be compared to the full-size B8. The M50 is no better than the M40x; some would say its worse. I understand how you feel about a lot of headphones. Most, like the HIFIMAN Bolt, are... not good, to put it lightly. But trust me, the B8 has potential. I suspect our 'B8 results differ' because I changed the pads... and because I modified mine to tighten its bass. The "screechy" sound you're hearing from your B8's is, no doubt, due to their comfort- and sound-hindering stock pads. I suggest you try those suede pads on your B8, as they would dramatically improve the fit and sound. Even if the pads don't 'fix' the headphones to your liking, you can use them on another headphone down the road.

Jan 28, 2019

JoeBi

Jan 30, 2019

mattrisI left a 0 off the UE, it was the UE 6000. Not great either but no harshness. It might even be worth the $24 offered on Amazon. And the Uptown not being great is exactly the point, since they are better than the B8. The B8 is not noise isolating because they don't even clamp, but rest on my ears, more loosely than the clip-ons. Plus they seem really harsh in the highs, even if I do have treblephobia. But the Fidelio X2 was great for me (treble could be better though) and the BVGP DMG also works for me, but the VSonic GR07 Classic was too much. I guess I really do personally prefer the the Sennheiser veil.

(Edited)

Jan 30, 2019

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Jan 30, 2019

JoeBiSeems to me you would love the hd58x instead of the hd6xx since treble can be shrill at times on the hd6xx. I am going from other people's views regarding the hd6xx. The Sennheiser tend to be more laid back and the hd58x has plenty bass compared to the rest of the hd600 series.

Jan 30, 2019

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Jan 30, 2019

JoeBiThe B8 is noise isolating with the suede pads, which also reduce the treble and tighten the bass... and clamp. Trust me, the difference - compared to the stock pads - is significant, so I encourage you to try them (link at the top of this conversation). Brainwavz is even offering 20% all their products right now!

Jan 30, 2019

Pickleless_Saint_Nicholas

Jan 30, 2019

JoeBiI experienced reduced bass compared to what it is now with the Geekria velour pads. Do not get these pads for isolation because it makes the headphone sound more open (thus leaks sound). It does enhance the bass/lower mids because of a better seal. Because of the larger padding, the clamp is good now instead of loose. I am trying not to evangelize these headphones but I urge you to experience brainwavz pads. The fact that I am comparing these cans with the hd58x should tell you something, right? I would just try the Brainwavz pads @mattris recommended, since he has tried multiple types. Actually I bought my pads because of his thorough testing and now I am not looking back to the stock pads. It is that big of a difference.

Jan 30, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisI've been lurking and find this topic interesting because I committed to buying the B8, but for the choices of pads which ones change which parameters of bass, treble, sound stage, comfort, etc?

Sheepskin Oval
Sheepskin Oval Angled
Micro Suede Oval
Micro Suede Oval XL

Are there any other pads that change these parameters? Also, you mentioned in your previous comments that you modded your B8. What did you do?

Jan 31, 2019

yogiwp

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisThanks for recommending Brainwavz Sheepskin Leather for taming the treble. Unfortunately I'm not too keen on leather pads. I'm wondering if Brainwavz Oval Hybrid would work as well? How about Angled Oval Hybrid? Treble reduction is my top priority.

Jan 31, 2019

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Jan 31, 2019

yogiwpYou're welcome. CORRECTION: I must have been remembering that the Brainwavz Hybrid Angled Pads do not sound good with the B8. However, with the XL Hybrid Pads installed, the sound is excellent: quite warm and wide. I wouldn't call the treble 'bright' - just detailed. Soundstage is wide, but imaging is still excellent. Keep in mind, though: I have modified my B8, adding internal dampening material to tighten the bass. The XL Hybrid Pads should still work well with the headphones in stock form... if you'll be using them where it won't be a major issue if the pads fall off. They are a bit big for the B8... but trust me, the sound is worth it! (You can keep them on by inserting a thin material between the pad lips and the cup rings.) If treble reduction is your top priority, any real leather pads will be ideal, especially when listening at moderate (or louder) volumes. Along with the treble, leather pads reduce sound-stage, but center-imaged vocals are well-represented. Leather pads will also offer the best isolation and passive noise cancellation.

(Edited)

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

JoeBiReconsidering that you have treblephobia, allow me to change my B8 pad recommendation to any real leather pads. Check out my post directly above this one. All the best.

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisWould you describe this as taming treble or enhancing the bass which makes the treble appear less in the complete picture? Just being curious :-)

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

Pickleless_Saint_NicholasExcellent questions. As a general rule, real leather pads will increase bass and overall solidity to the sound... but treble and soundstage will be reduced compared to pads made of other materials. I would not recommend the Brainwavz Sheepskin Oval Angled Pads with the B8, as they result in a far too bassy sound. The XL model offers a much more balanced experience in every way. But if you plan to use your B8's out and about, I would recommend the Sheepskin Oval model, as those pads match the cup size perfectly... and cannot come off. Brainwavz' Micro Suede Pads produce a flat and more-detailed sound, with a wider soundstage. Tonal accuracy and transparency is significantly higher, but the sound has sort of a 'deadened' presentation compared to all other pad models I've tried. (Suede pads would be really good for editing or monitoring.) With the B8, the XL Suede Pads result in a 'pulled-apart' sound, in which the left-center-right image are too localized. The smaller-opening Oval Suede Pads are better in this regard, offering a more cohesive soundstage. Comfort can be quite subjective, but I can tell you that heat dissipation is similar with the leather and suede pads - better than solid PU ('pleather') leather pads, which don't sound quite right with the B8. The Perforated Pleather XL pads result in a massive soundstage, but might be interpreted as a bit bright with the B8. Velour pads simply don't offer enough solidity or bass. Yes, I did mod my B8. For each side:

Remove the pads.
Using a small Philips screwdriver, take out 4 screws.
Pull the driver housing away from the wooden cup. (Be careful not to break the attached wires.)
With a pencil and paper, create a template of the large flat area of the interior of the cup.
With scissors (and your fingers), fashion a precisely-fit piece of firm sound/packing foam (roughly 2" by 2.5") to cover the surface of the interior of the wood cup... but not the upper 'deck' where the screws attach. (Since the driver is angled, so you will need to create a 1" by 0.5" hole so that the further-out edge of the driver does not have foam behind it. Also leave a little space directly next to the driver's vent hole.)
Secure the foam well with many small (cut) pieces of electrical tape. (For maximum wood coverage, you can also cover the upper deck with tape.)
Re-attach the driver.

This mod resulted in noticeably tighter sound, especially the bass, since the sound cannot resonate as much within the cup. To go the extra mile (for sound!), the plastic grate covering each driver can be cut off. Doing so requires sharp scissors. To cut each outer frame piece (individually), slightly open the scissors and firmly pinch the tip until the plastic is cut. Pull up after each frame cut, as the magnet within the driver will draw titanium or steel scissors to it. Be extremely careful not to touch (or cut) the driver diaphragm. If you do not have steady hands... or don't want to risk catastrophic damage to the headphones (during the procedure or after), do not attempt this step! I'll post an image of the foam I used. Let me know if you have any questions.

(Edited)

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

CW83You're right... it's all relative, so I'll explain it this way: If you used the same headphones with pads of various materials (leather, velour, suede, fake leather, all those materials with perforated models, etc.)... and recorded a frequency sweep that the headphones produced... and then aligned the frequency response graphs at 1 kHz, solid real leather pads would have the most bass and least treble of all the models of pads. Does that make sense?

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisInteresting mod, how much did you feel you gained by doing the mod versus just the pad swap?

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisYes that does make sense, thank you! Do you have professional measuring equipment?

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

mattrisHey I think I forgot to mention that the pads are soft and thin stiched cloth. The memory foam filling is generous though. Nobody seems to realize that the pad swap is so significant. Now I get why Zeos Pantera has so many pads and swaps them with every review.

Jan 31, 2019

Jan 31, 2019

CW83Not as significant as a pad swap... but as I said, the sound is now noticeably tighter, especially the bass. considering that the headphones will likely be working for decades, the mod was worth the time/effort.

Jan 31, 2019

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Jan 31, 2019

CW83I don't own any measuring equipment... but I do have above-average hearing and listening discernment abilities. Plus, I probably hold a record for how fast I can pad-swap with the B8.

Jan 31, 2019

Pickleless_Saint_Nicholas

Jan 31, 2019

CW83It sounds like your Geekria pads are equivalent to the velour model from Brainwavz, which are very listenable with the B8... but not the best option, in my opinion. I encourage you to to try the Brainwavz Micro Suede Oval Pads, which provide a more solid, detailed, flat sound through the bass... or Sheepskin Leather Oval for more bass that still has a smooth transition to the lower-mids... and reduced treble for hotly-mixed music or louder listening. I gave you a few more 'thumbs-up'. Can you please return the favor? Thanks!

Jan 31, 2019

Feb 1, 2019

mattrisAre you sure you're not a Brainwavz sales agent?? Lol but in all seriousness, thank you for this very informative reply. What is your opinion on the comparison between the Brainwavz Oval Sheepskin and the Brainwavz' Micro Suede Pads. I may just buy both and see for myself because this topic is quite subjective, but I would like to hear more about it because you own both. As for the mod, I find this quite assuring. I remember a post on a different forum about this mod. The user said they placed half a cotton ball in each driver housing to enhance the sound. On a different note, I am beginning to wonder if the wood on the B8 makes a big difference to the sound compared to other wooden headphones.

Feb 1, 2019

Feb 1, 2019

Pickleless_Saint_NicholasHe's right these do need to change pads and https://www.brainwavzaudio.com/blogs/news/lunar-new-year-sale-now-on 20% discount stock up on them

(Edited)

Feb 1, 2019

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JoeBi

Feb 1, 2019

CW83The 6xx was never shrill for me, and perhaps it's too tame. The bass is good but doesn't go low. The graphs of 6xx and Fidelio X2 aren't so different but the X2 seems to have more bass slam, and makes you feel surrounded by a warm blanket of bass. I'd just like an upgrade to the X2 with better treble that still avoids sibilance.

Feb 1, 2019

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JoeBi

Feb 1, 2019

CW83The "Boss" doesn't fit mediums heads AT ALL, so I mods don't help me. Thanks anyway.

Feb 1, 2019

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Feb 2, 2019

Pickleless_Saint_NicholasThe main difference between the Brainwavz Oval Sheepskin Pads and Oval Micro Suede Pads is that the Sheepskin Pads make the B8 very warm and dark. The Suede Pads make them relatively 'flat', with a more detailed and 'deadened' sound. While you're at it, you might as well get the Perforated Pleather XL Pads, which result in a massive soundstage, and if I'm honest, really allow the B8 to show it's true colors - wide, detailed, and slightly bright. Cotton balls installed in the cups will not absorb nearly as much sound as dense foam, which significantly reduces bass resonance for an overall 'tighter' sound. Yes, the B8's wood cups make a big difference to its sound since, in stock form, they have absolutely no dampening material between the driver housing and the interior of the cup.

(Edited)

Feb 2, 2019

May 13, 2019

mattrisCan you please post some pics of the foam and or your modded cups? Just got my pair of B8's and was looking to add some damping. Thanks

May 13, 2019

May 15, 2019

Alou1Ok, finally... here is the foam I used to tighten the bass response in my B8:

I used the more-dense dark foam, but the more common white type should be nearly as effective. Having said this, I would probably recommend using some thick, padded, dark grey, tape instead. (Using this would make the mod much easier.) I'm pretty sure I have some, so I'll mod my Sivga SV006 and upload some pictures of what I do.

May 15, 2019

May 15, 2019

mattrisThanks allot for posting. I know the type feels like its rubberized. I was also thinking of trying with some carded sheep wool i use for speaker damping . When you mean tape you mean to attach the foam to the wood cup? You can use double sided adhesive tape.

May 15, 2019

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Jun 1, 2019

mattrisI tried using melanine foam (the kind magic clean sponges are made of) since it is used as an audio damping material in installations and yes the souns improved.Better bass response but not boomy. What makes me wonder is the even though the cups are wood and i also added the foam i can still listen to backround noises or conversations in a room.Is there a way for better background isolation ? Sound by the way is extremely good for such priced headphones ,when compared to my much more expensive headphones and run through a reference headphone studio amp.

Jun 1, 2019

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Jun 1, 2019

Alou1Background isolation will be most affected by the ear pads. Which ones are you using? For the best isolation and sound, I recommend the large-ear-opening Brainwavz XL Micro Suede Pads*, but the Oval ones fit perfectly and won't come off. * The XL pads can be secured with thin material inserted into the pad lip gaps.

Jun 1, 2019

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Jun 1, 2019

mattrisI am using the original ones ,Brainwaves must be better but are costly ,half the price of the headphones fi you count the shipping costs! Anything that costs less perhaps ?

Jun 1, 2019

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Jun 2, 2019

Alou1Oh, you simply must replace the comfort- and sound-hampering stock pads. These misodiko pads look very similar to the Brainwavz Micro Suede Pads. If you get them, upload photos, and I'll do the same with my Brainwavz pads, and we can compare. Though, to be safe, I recommend just getting the Brainwavz pads. Trust me, you won't regret the purchase, as the B8s absolutely deserve them. The sound improvement is massive compared to the stock pads: tight, detailed, and extremely balanced overall (sub-bass included!). Comfort with the Brainwavz Micro Suede pads is absolutely ideal, and isolation is greatly improved . Again, the Brainwavz XL Micro Suede Pads would provide a larger soundstage than the oval pads, but you'd have to somehow secure them to the B8's oval-shaped earcups.

Jun 2, 2019

Jun 2, 2019

mattrisWell i migth go ahead and get a pair but not the xl,i perfer a tight fir since i use this at work and constantly come on and off!

Jun 2, 2019

Initial

Jul 5, 2019

mattrisWhich pad you recommend for sivga 007 microsuede or velour

Jul 5, 2019

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Jul 5, 2019

InitialThanks for the question. For the SV007, my pads of choice are the Brainwavz' XL Perforated PU Leather Pads. (Though, I have internally modified my SV007 for improved sound... and externally with rubber bands to secure the XL pads to the cups.) Brainwavz XL Velour Pads provide a spacious - but more relaxed and diffuse sound - at the expense of the overall solidity and sharper detail that the Perforated Pleather Pads offer. With a smaller sound-stage than the XL model, Brainwavz' (standard oval) Velour Pads still sound good with the SV007... but are nearly as comfortable and fit securely by default. (Recommended for those that want the least fuss and don't desire maximum detail.) I only recommend Micro Suede Pads for closed-back headphones, especially ones that are V-shaped.

Jul 5, 2019

Jul 30, 2019

JoeBiAny idea why our THX conversation 'cannot be found'? I'm curious what you said to me before it was deleted.

Jul 30, 2019

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factsvsfeelings

Aug 22, 2019

mattrisi would say if you listen to more bassy music the Brainwavz Oval Sheepskin Pads Are an absolute must, also works well for more general bassy music trap/pyscdelic/edm Also incredibly comfortable. I tested using different pads i own the majority would want to go for Brainwaves XL Velour Pads but while my prefrence will suit less if thats your sound preference your going to be impressed with the above swap.

(Edited)

Aug 22, 2019

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factsvsfeelings

Aug 22, 2019

mattrisFar too basy? I would disagree for the right kind of music. But far too unbalanced for an all around sound thats for sure. But i like that. Its outright better for my musical preference as the bass does not muddy the song or effect the clarity but the soundstage is lacking.

Aug 22, 2019

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factsvsfeelings

Aug 22, 2019

JoeBiYou are pretending that isnt with emotional based denile without any facts. No one is saying they will provide good noise isolation but you were trying to compare a headphone 6x the price eg the filio x2 with this! your taking the piss and are making a very bad attempt at trolling. When you are buying pads for a headphone you are not throwing your money. The pads can always be used to replace even 300+ Headphones to make them produce a better sound.

(Edited)

Aug 22, 2019

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Aug 23, 2019

factsvsfeelingsThose who listen to bassy music might not necessarily desire a bass increase that the Brainwavz Oval Sheepskin Pads provide... and at the expense of sound-stage, as you noticed. The Brainwavz Oval Micro Suede Pads are even more comfortable, and no frequencies seem to be boosted or recessed. Brainwavz Oval Velour Pads offer a bit more air but lack the overall solidity that the Micros Suedes offer. Brainwavz XL Pads are too big for the cups of the B8... and will fall off unless secured. Having said that, I have Brainwavz Perforated XL Pads on my B8, which provide a wide, detailed soundscape... great with orchestral music and FPS gaming. Though for most people, this combination would likely be a bit too bright and fatiguing for most other types of music or general listening.

Aug 23, 2019

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JoeBi

Aug 23, 2019

factsvsfeelingsThere's no reason to get excited... about this stuff. Bad Boy on Youtube claimed the B8 sounded like the X2 in a video review. The B8 seems well built but would never fit my head, unless the extra pads were huge. I just didn't want the bother and gave them away, so they are someone else's problem now. The X2 were never 6x the cost, and are down to $150, and I think a better deal than the B8. I'm fine with other preferences but if I state mine it doesn't mean I'm trolling.

Aug 23, 2019

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Aug 24, 2019

JoeBiI find it ironic that you say, "There's no reason to get excited... about this stuff." when, after specifically asking me for advice within the THX AAA 789 discussion thread, you found it necessary to question - and even seem put out - after I requested that you 'like' my helpful comments. I suspect you deleted your original comment, which removed all responses, including mine which totaled a few hundred words. If you didn't delete that thread, then at the very least, you avoided answering (for over a month) my question as to why the thread had be removed after you responded (multiple times) to my last post. You say that 'the B8 would never fit your head', so you "gave them away". After all this talk about how their sound and comfort can be fixed with a pad swap, I think you're regretting letting them go, claiming that you "didn't want the bother" while repeatedly saying that the headphones should have been suited to your sound/comfort preferences out-of-the-box. Are you implying that headphone mods should never be needed, even when the possible/promised improvement would be significant? If you're a true pal, you would have let your now-B8-owning friend know about the pad-swap fix, which you learned about months ago. You say it's their "problem now". Have you still not told them? Also, care to tell us why the Philips X2 headphones are "a better deal than the B8"? For starters, the X2 costs $60 more than the B8 with Brainwavz Micro Suede Pads... but don't sound nearly as clear, isolate sound (in either direction), easily allow for pad-swapping, or fold flat for storage/travelling.

Aug 24, 2019

JoeBi

Aug 27, 2019

mattrisIn my experience the $149 X2 outperforms the B8, and I don't have to hold up the X2 with my hands. They don't fit medium to smaller heads at all, and I don't regret giving them away (though I do regret wasting cash). I like the X2 better than the 6xx because of bass and soundstage, but prefer the 6xx mids and highs. The B8 do not isolate, because they won't fit the head of a 5'10" male without $40 modification (and maybe not even then). They hang on the top of the ears and do not clamp. I've not had this problem with any headphone I've EVER used -- not ANY Sony, ATH, Phillips, 6xx, etc.

(Edited)

Aug 27, 2019

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Aug 28, 2019

JoeBiIn stock form, yes, the X2 outperforms the B8 in almost every respect. But the fact is, these $17 micro suede pads fix the B8's sound and comfort issues... unless you have a small head. Care to address my other substantive points and questions... without reiterating how the B8 didn't work for you in its stock form?

Aug 28, 2019

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JoeBi

Aug 29, 2019

mattrisAgain, it does not not fit medium or small heads, even with your extra pad ("unless you have a small head"). But it sounds like it is good for big head tinkerers looking to experiment on low end items. Even if successful -- and I'm sure "they punch well above their price" -- you're stuck in the low end of mid-fi. I floundered there enough myself. Of course that's from someone who haltingly upgraded through 30+ IEMs below a 200 bucks, and 15+ headphones under $330. My latest failure is the Final E5000 (loved the E3000), and it was mostly dark city perhaps because I couldn't get a good fit there either.

(Edited)

Aug 29, 2019

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Aug 29, 2019

JoeBiHow do you know that the B8 'does not not fit medium heads with the extra pads' if you haven't tried it yourself? Curious to know your definition of "low end items" and what closed-back headphones you would consider 'great-sounding' or a 'great value', especially under $90 with a pad-swap. With the B8, I recommend the (Brainwavz or misodiko) Micro Suede pads for general listening and most music genres. But with with other pads installed, I've heard how detailed, wide, and tonally accurate the B8 can be. I can assure you, they are not "low end" in any respect. "Stuck", you say? I'm constantly learning, modifying, creating EQ profiles, tinking with audio settings, and upgrading equipment. I wonder where your audio journey has led you... and if you will ever address my other questions, namely what happened to our now-deleted 'THX' conversation.

Aug 29, 2019

JoeBi

Aug 30, 2019

mattrisYou're spinning your wheels for no good result. I'm not saying that the B8 isn't a decent tinker project to upgrade them to a reasonable low end mid-fi headphone. You just need a big head, and I'm not letting my own gifts go to mine.

Aug 30, 2019

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JoeBi

Aug 30, 2019

mattrisYou can be proud that your own choices "punch way above their price"! I'm sure everyone who follows this stuff has given glowing reviews to the B8 because it's the best headphone under $1000. I like it the same as I do the legendary Sony 7506/V6. I've heard it's the official headphone of the Nephilim, which is gonna be a great marketing bullet point. :) These are the only O-T-E headphones of many that didn't fit out of the box. I think that the build is outrageously large, much worse than the X2 or K550, which are the loosest fitting HPs I've ever used. But perhaps the Brainwavz Angled Ear Pads might have barely worked -- they're huge.

(Edited)

Aug 30, 2019

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Aug 30, 2019

JoeBiI'm spinning my wheels for no good result? You're still talking about how the stock B8 didn't work for you... and have, once again, avoided addressing my other questions. Try again.

Aug 30, 2019

JoeBi

Aug 31, 2019

mattrisThe B8 is a decent tinkerer project to get them to an acceptable low-end mid-fi level. It's a good thing that they ship subpar for hobbyists. I think that answers all your questions, and I'm glad I could help. :)

Aug 31, 2019

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Sep 1, 2019

JoeBiQuestions that you did not answer have been reiterated and bolded for your convenience. I'm interested to hear your answers. How do you know that the B8 'does not not fit medium heads with the extra pads' if you haven't tried it yourself? As long as the user does not have a small head, the B8 only needs a pad-swap. No tinkering required. Is it your opinion that headphone mods (tinkering) should never be needed, even when the possible/promised improvement would be significant? I still suspect you regret letting your B8s go. If you're a true pal, you would have let your now-B8-owning friend know about the simple pad-swap fix, which you learned about months ago. You say it's their "problem now". Have you told your friend about pad swapping? If not, you can let them know that any standard (oval) pair of Brainwavz pads will suffice. Sound preferences will dictate what model should be selected. What closed-back headphones you would consider 'great-sounding' or a 'great value'?

What is your definition of "low-end mid-fi level" or "low end items"?

Where has your audio journey has led you? I find it ironic that you speak of 'helping' when I offered you my assistance in the THX thread... and you seemed put out or offended after I asked if you could please 'like' my helpful responses. I suspect you deleted your original comment, which removed all of the responses, including mine which totaled a few hundred words. Is that true? If you didn't delete that thread, then at the very least, you avoided answering - for over a month - my question as to why that thread had been removed... after you responded multiple times to my last message. (And you still haven't addressed this matter.) Care to enlighten me... this time, in a thread you can't delete?

Sep 1, 2019

JoeBi

Sep 6, 2019

mattrisMeanwhile life goes on all around you. * from "It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)" by Bob Dylan (* I'm happy that these work for you, but they don't for me.)

(Edited)

Sep 6, 2019

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Sep 7, 2019

JoeBiJust as I thought... I offered substantive advice to you, but you were unreceptive (to say the least) and had that thread removed. I have since cornered you... and you have now revealed yourself to be guilty of being absolutely useless. Indeed, my life does go on. You clearly not worth another second of it.

Sep 7, 2019

JoeBi

Sep 7, 2019

mattrisI'm glad you have a product/company to evangelize for. I'm sure your recommendations make the the B8 mid-fi bargains for tinkerers with big heads -- and that's something to know. However, the B8 is not well designed for most people, and I gave them to someone who uses the Apple EarPods otherwise, because he had a big head. There is no conspiracy on my end! If Blon thought the B8 were so great, why would they not tweak them and take a big bite out the ATH-M50 market?

(Edited)

Sep 7, 2019

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Sep 7, 2019

JoeBiGreat question... that I honestly do not know the answer to. I'm sure the suede pads cost much more, so that could be it. The fact that a headphone has an issue or two - in its stock form - does not mean that it should be ignored or discarded... especially if it has great potential with a simple pad swap. That was the point I was trying to get across. You would do you friend a great service by informing him of this. He will surely thank you, which would be more than I got from you.

Sep 7, 2019

Sep 7, 2019

mattristried the micro suede pads hmm still preferred the Brainwavz Oval Sheepskin Pads. Not really an audiophile myself so just works for me. btw listening to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXHgBUMnlvY the second song is awesome. Does sound slightly brighter then the Philips SHP9500 so all depends on my mood I guess. Should i bother getting the X2 ? or does the SHP9500 and B8 cover everything and I should be looking at AMP ? Using the Micca OriGen G2 High Resolution USB DAC and Preamplifier mainly for the headphone and speaker switching capability.

(Edited)

Sep 7, 2019

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JoeBi

Sep 7, 2019

pkrisninThe SHP9500 and B8 will NOT cover everything, but the X2 may not be a big enough jump in sound quality, if the B8 works for you -- unless you're looking for a bass/soundstage upgrade. You will notice somewhat better performance with a $100 Liquid or Atom amp, but mostly you'll be getting higher volume. I loved my X2 in 2015 but there's a lot of newer options, though they have different compromises.

Sep 7, 2019