Sony WH-1000XM3 pad replacement

[donkmeister]

I've never been one to cosset my headphones, and my XM3s have been no exception. They are excellent headphones not just for general use but also for building work. After many years of being sweated in by a 250lb gorilla I noticed that the pads are a touch erm.... ripe. Attempts with IPA to sweeten the aroma failed, so I went looking for replacement pads.

Sure enough, the excellent build quality of the XM3s means that there is a thriving market for replacement earpads. Has anyone got any recommendations? I'll probably get the Wicked Cushions (£22 at BezosMart) but has anyone found some that improve upon the originals, or to stay away from?

[donkmeister]

Just in case anyone else finds themselves in need of doing this, it was a piece of cake. I used a plastic spudger (the instructions suggest a butter knife), and went with the Wicked Cushions.

The earpads are actually the same on each side, and the mesh is integral to the earpad.

Once earpads are removed, you can see a piece of foam. This IS different on each side, so take a picture if you remove them for cleaning (which I did).

I removed the inner foam from each side, soaked it in IPA then squeezed it out and let it air-dry, and used cotton buds dipped in IPA to give everything inside a good wipe. Everything came up smelling fresh and new, and after reassembly it all works as it should. I kept clear of the speaker drivers and the NC microphone, of course.

[OMITN]

Super useful post, thank you.

My OH wrecks headphones, so finding a way to keep them going for longer always appreciated!