How to Replace Earpads on HiFiMAN HE-1000V2 Headphones

By Addicted To Audio - Home Audio Electronics & Accessories | Published: 2026-10-17

Category: How-to Guides

Swap worn earpads on your HiFiMAN HE-1000V2, Ananda, or Arya with the Ultrapad V2. Follow these steps to avoid damaging the driver and get the best fit and sound.

Quick answer

To replace earpads on HiFiMAN HE-1000V2 headphones, gently peel off the old pad from the mounting ring, align the new HiFiMAN Ultrapad V2 pad's groove with the ring, and press firmly around the entire circumference. The whole swap takes about five minutes and requires no tools.

Why replace earpads on planar headphones

Earpads on planar magnetic headphones like the HE-1000V2 directly affect soundstage, bass response, and comfort. The original velour pads absorb sweat and flatten over time, which can shift the driver angle and reduce clarity. The Ultrapad V2 uses a polyester surface that resists wear and maintains the angled driver position introduced with the HE-1000 V2.

Tools you need

You only need a clean, flat surface and good lighting. No screwdrivers, pry tools, or adhesive are required. The pads attach via a friction-fit groove on a plastic mounting ring. Avoid using metal tools near the driver.

Step-by-step earpad replacement

Remove the old earpad: Hold the headphone with one hand. With the other, pinch the edge of the old pad near the bottom and gently pull it away from the mounting ring. Work your way around until the pad separates. The ring stays attached to the headphone. Common mistake: pulling too hard can detach the mounting ring. If the ring comes off, snap it back onto the driver housing before installing the new pad.
Inspect the mounting ring and driver: Check that the plastic mounting ring is fully seated and free of debris. Look at the driver mesh for dust or hair. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean it if needed. Checkpoint: a loose ring will cause the new pad to fit unevenly. Press it firmly into the housing until you hear it click.
Align the new Ultrapad V2: Hold the new pad so the side with the thicker foam (the rear) faces the back of the headphone. The pad has a continuous groove on its back edge. Start at the top of the mounting ring and press the groove onto the ring. Common mistake: installing the pad backwards reverses the intended driver angle and narrows the soundstage. The thicker foam should be at the rear.
Press the pad onto the ring: Work your way around the ring, pressing the groove firmly onto the plastic. Use your thumbs to seat the pad evenly. The pad should sit flush with no gaps. Checkpoint: run your finger around the seam. If you feel a gap, the pad is not fully seated. Press that section again.
Repeat for the other ear cup: Follow the same steps for the second earpad. After both are installed, put the headphones on and check for even pressure and seal. Adjust if necessary. Final check: listen to a familiar track. If bass sounds thin or the soundstage shifts, the pads may not be seated evenly. Remove and reinstall.

Recommended replacement pad

HiFiMAN Ultrapad V2 Replacement Earpads for HE-1000V2, Ananda and Arya: The HiFiMAN Ultrapad V2 is the ear pad introduced with HE-1000 V2, offering greater angling of the headphone driver compared to the original HE-1000. It changes the velour pad surface for polyester and is compatible with the HE-1000V2, Ananda, Arya, and Edition X series. The angled design preserves the intended soundstage and imaging of your headphones, while the polyester surface lasts longer and is easier to clean than velour.