Replacing Hifiman He350 Plastic Bands: An Easy Guide

how to replace hifiman he350 plastic bands

Hifiman does not sell headbands separately or as replacement parts, but they do offer a headband replacement service for $50 plus $30 for return shipping. However, some users have found this service inadequate, with one user reporting that their headband broke within 5 months of purchase. Instead, users have found success in purchasing generic headbands from Amazon, which are cheaper than Hifiman's options. The process of replacing the headband involves unscrewing the earpieces from the yokes and reassembling the cups onto the new headband.

Characteristics Values
Hifiman's policy on selling replacement parts Hifiman does not sell headbands separately anymore, but they do offer a headband replacement service for $50 plus $30 for return shipping
Replacement headband options Hifiman offers a replacement headband for $75, including the metal band and loops that attach to the headphone cups
Amazon generic headband options Amazon offers a generic headband that fits Hifiman headphones for a cheaper price than Hifiman options
DIY replacement options Users have suggested gluing the strap, using larger screws, and getting a cover for the flaking plastic; another user suggested using heavy paper to protect the driver, marking the polarity of the driver leads, using a soldering iron to remove them from the posts/tabs, and then removing the screws that secure the pad retainer ring

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Hifiman stopped selling HE-560 headbands

Hifiman has stopped selling individual HE-560 headbands, instead offering a headband replacement service for $50 plus $30 for return shipping. This means that customers will be without their headphones for a period of time.

The HE-560 headband can be replaced with the headband from the HE-400i, which is available for purchase from Hifiman. However, some customers have reported that the HE-400i headband is uncomfortable.

There are also third-party replacement headband options available on Amazon, such as the Defean headband, which is made of PU leatherette and costs around $75. However, some reviews note that the quality of these replacement headbands is not as good as the original Hifiman headbands, and they may break easily.

How to replace Hifiman HE350 plastic bands

To replace the plastic bands on the Hifiman HE350 headphones, you will need to purchase a replacement headband. The Defean headband mentioned above is compatible with the HE350 model, and there are also other options available on Amazon, such as the Voarmaks Sheepskin Premium Ear Pads.

Once you have purchased a replacement headband, follow these steps:

  • Make a driver protector from a piece of heavy paper. Cut it to the shape of the driver and place it over to prevent anything from falling into the magnets.
  • Mark the polarity of the driver leads and use a soldering iron to remove them from the posts/tabs.
  • Remove the screws that secure the pad retainer ring, marking the location of the ring in the cup. This will expose the driver.
  • Remove the driver and put each into its own bag, being careful to keep them apart.
  • Get the new headband ready. Remove the cups from the band and place them flat on a table.
  • Secure the drivers in the cups and solder the leads to the post tabs.

Some users have reported issues with the replacement headbands, such as the OEM strap not including the metal clips needed for attachment. Therefore, it is important to carefully review the options and choose a suitable replacement headband for your HE350 headphones.

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Replacement options are available, but they don't mention HE-350

Hifiman has a headband replacement service for $50 plus $30 for return shipping. However, they do not sell just the headband, and they will have to carry out the replacement themselves.

There are also generic replacement options available on Amazon, which are cheaper than the official Hifiman replacements. These include the Defean Replacement Headband Pads, which are compatible with the HE350, and the TaiZiChangQin Headband Cushion Pillow Replacement.

If you are looking for a more DIY solution, some people have suggested gluing the strap together and then screwing on a plastic outside trim piece. Others have suggested using larger screws and adding nuts and bolts to the original headband.

There are also step-by-step guides available for replacing the headband on the HE-350 with that of another Hifiman model, such as the HE-6. This involves soldering the driver leads to the socket and removing the cups from the band.

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A generic headband can be purchased from Amazon

A generic headband for the Hifiman HE350 can be purchased from Amazon. The Defean replacement headband, made of PU leatherette, is compatible with the Hifiman HE350. It is available in black and measures 220x72mm. It is recommended that you watch the video installation before installing the headband.

Although the headband is compatible with the HE350, it is just a piece of plastic and does not come with the metal clips required to attach the strap to the headband. You will need to reuse the existing clips on your old headband, which may be difficult as they are crimped onto the ends. If you are unable to reuse the clips, you may need to glue the strap to the remainder of the clip.

If you are unsuccessful in attaching the generic headband, you can purchase a replacement headband from the Hifiman website for $75. This includes the metal band on top and the loops that attach to the headphone cups. However, some customers have noted that this is a rip-off considering the price of the headphones.

In addition to the headband, you may also want to purchase replacement headband pads for added comfort. Amazon offers the Defean SUNDARA Replacement Earpad, which is compatible with the Hifiman HE350.

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The hardest part is unscrewing the earpieces from the yokes

When replacing the plastic bands of your Hifiman HE350 headphones, the most challenging step is detaching the earpieces from the yokes. This process requires specific tools to unscrew the earpieces, and you may find that the standard hex tips in your toolbox are not suitable for this task.

The first step is to gather the right tools. In this case, you will need a set of hex tips that includes smaller sizes. Once you have acquired the appropriate set, look for a hex tip that measures approximately 1.5mm. This smaller tip should fit the screw that secures the earpiece to the yoke.

With the correct tool in hand, carefully insert the 1.5mm hex tip into the screw and begin to gently apply force to unscrew it. Be cautious and patient during this step, as applying too much force or torque could damage the screw or the surrounding components. Take your time and make slow, controlled movements.

After successfully unscrewing the earpieces from the yokes, you can proceed with the rest of the replacement process. Reuse the existing screws and rubber washers to attach the earpieces to the new headband. This step is relatively straightforward and does not require any complex techniques or additional tools. Simply follow the reverse order of disassembly, ensuring that each screw is tightened securely.

By carefully following these instructions, you can overcome the most challenging aspect of replacing the plastic bands on your Hifiman HE350 headphones. Remember to take your time, especially during the unscrewing process, to avoid any accidental damage to your headphones.

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HiFiMan offers a headband replacement service for $50

If you are looking to replace the plastic bands on your Hifiman HE350 headphones, you have a few options. While HiFiMan does not sell just the headband, they do offer a headband replacement service for $50, plus $30 for return shipping. This service includes the metal band on top and the loops that attach to the headphone cups.

Alternatively, you can purchase a third-party replacement headband from sites like Amazon. Defean, for example, offers a replacement headband compatible with the HE350 model, as well as other Hifiman headphones. This option may be more cost-effective, but keep in mind that it may not be an exact match for your headphones in terms of aesthetics or functionality.

If you are comfortable with a more extensive DIY project, you can also attempt to replace the plastic bands yourself. This process involves soldering the driver leads to the socket and removing the screws that secure the pad retainer ring. However, this method requires careful handling of the internal components and may void your warranty.

Finally, as a temporary solution, you can try reinforcing the existing headband with super glue, electrical tape, or duct tape. While this may not be a long-term fix, it can help extend the life of your headphones until you can obtain a replacement.

When considering your options, it is essential to weigh the cost, convenience, and potential impact on the performance and aesthetics of your headphones.

Frequently asked questions

Hifiman does not sell headbands separately, so you will need to purchase a generic headband from another seller. You can find these on Amazon.

First, make a driver protector from a piece of heavy paper. Cut it to the shape of the driver and place it over to prevent anything from falling into the magnets. Next, mark the polarity of the driver leads and use a soldering iron to remove them from the posts/tabs. Then, remove the screws that secure the pad retainer ring, exposing the driver.

You will need a soldering iron and a set of hex tips or screwdrivers that include smaller sizes, such as 1.5mm.

Re-use the existing screws and rubber washers, and reassemble the cups onto the new headband.

Some users have reported that the replacement headbands are not as durable as the original, with the threading being weaker and the metal clips breaking easily.

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