How to Replace Ear Pads on Audeze LCD Headphones

By Addicted To Audio - Home Audio Electronics & Accessories | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn the correct way to swap Audeze LCD ear pads, avoid common mistakes, and keep your headphones comfortable and sounding their best.

Quick Answer

Replacing Audeze LCD ear pads is a simple DIY task that takes about five minutes. Just gently pry off the old pads, align the new ones, and press them into place—no tools required.

Why Replace Audeze LCD Ear Pads?

Over time, ear pads on Audeze LCD headphones compress and wear out, affecting both comfort and sound isolation. Replacing them restores the original fit and helps maintain the acoustic seal that Audeze tuned for.

Audeze offers genuine replacement pads in Leather and Leather-Free materials. Leather tends to be more durable and provides a firmer seal, while Leather-Free is a good choice if you prefer a vegan option or live in a humid climate where leather may wear faster.

What You Need Before You Start

You only need the replacement ear pads themselves—no screwdrivers or special tools. Audeze LCD ear pads are held in place by a simple friction fit, so the swap is tool-free.

Make sure you have the correct pads for your model. Audeze replacement pads are compatible with all LCD headphones except the LCD-1 and LCD-5, so check your model before ordering.

Step-by-Step Replacement Process

Remove the old ear pad: Hold the headphone firmly with one hand. With the other, grip the edge of the ear pad and gently pull it away from the earcup. Work your way around the pad until it pops off. It should come off with moderate resistance—do not yank or twist. If the pad feels stuck, use a soft plastic spudger to pry it off; avoid metal tools that could scratch the earcup.
Inspect the earcup and clean if needed: Once the old pad is off, check the earcup surface for any debris or adhesive residue. Gently wipe with a dry microfiber cloth. Do not use liquids or solvents, as they can damage the driver or the earcup finish. A clean surface ensures the new pad seats properly and forms a good seal.
Align the new ear pad: Take the new Audeze replacement pad and align it with the earcup. Look for the orientation—the pad is symmetrical, but aligning it evenly around the rim makes installation easier. Start by pressing one edge into the groove, then work your way around. Double-check that the pad is fully seated before pressing down—misalignment can cause gaps that affect sound isolation.
Press the pad into place: Once the pad is aligned, press firmly around the entire perimeter until you hear or feel it snap into place. Run your fingers along the edge to ensure there are no loose sections. If any part of the pad is not flush, remove it and start again—do not force it, as this could damage the pad.
Test the fit and comfort: Put on the headphones and adjust the headband. The ear pads should sit comfortably around your ears without excessive pressure. If they feel uneven, remove and reseat them. A proper fit is essential for both comfort and optimal sound quality, so take a moment to verify before you finish.

Product Facts

Audeze Replacement LCD Ear Pads: Genuine Audeze replacement ear pads, sold in pairs, and available in Leather and Leather-Free variants. Choosing the genuine pair ensures a proper fit and maintains the original sound signature of your LCD headphones.
Audeze Replacement LCD Ear Pads