This advice is for anyone using the Audio-Technica ATH-AD900X headphones and possibly applies to other models in the Audio-Technica range that use the same hinge system.
I recently received a new pair of ATH-AD900X headphones. I have been a long time user of AT equipment and have not had any major issues except for scratchy volume controls due to a dusty pot in the ATH-ADG1X. The AD900X set worked well and the sound quality is excellent. I noticed once I started using them an annoying rattling noise was coming from the right hand earcup when I tilted or shook my head. I disconnected the headphones and isolated the noise to either the right speaker or the right hinge assembly.
I disassembled the right hinge and earcup and checked the speaker. No visual issues and no loose screws or wiring. I then checked the hinge and narrowed the rattling noise to this location. I disassembled and removed the "wing" cover and checked the internals for loose items. I then removed the C-shape lock washer which holds the hinge spindle containing the speaker wire.
I found the hinge assembly contained two small metallic rods sitting in the plastic mold of the assembly. I noticed one was loose and easily fell out when I tilted the assembly.
I dipped the small metal rod in some lubrication jelly and placed it back into its hole. This resolved the issue and stopped the rattling. I re-assembled the headphones and tested by shaking and tilting my head and no rattling was evident.
Just a point to watch out for when you remove and replace the C-shape split washer that holds the hinge spindle. It is very small and if you are not careful it can spring off and you may lose it. Make sure you have a good set of needle-nose pliers to hold it securely and cover with your finger as you remove and replace it.
I have attached some photos of the hinge assembly and the small metal rod that was causing the rattling noise. I have highlighted the relevant parts using a red circle.
https://imgur.com/cWUBCo4
https://imgur.com/6smvV5l
https://imgur.com/NpeGDoX
I recently received a new pair of ATH-AD900X headphones. I have been a long time user of AT equipment and have not had any major issues except for scratchy volume controls due to a dusty pot in the ATH-ADG1X. The AD900X set worked well and the sound quality is excellent. I noticed once I started using them an annoying rattling noise was coming from the right hand earcup when I tilted or shook my head. I disconnected the headphones and isolated the noise to either the right speaker or the right hinge assembly.
I disassembled the right hinge and earcup and checked the speaker. No visual issues and no loose screws or wiring. I then checked the hinge and narrowed the rattling noise to this location. I disassembled and removed the "wing" cover and checked the internals for loose items. I then removed the C-shape lock washer which holds the hinge spindle containing the speaker wire.
I found the hinge assembly contained two small metallic rods sitting in the plastic mold of the assembly. I noticed one was loose and easily fell out when I tilted the assembly.
I dipped the small metal rod in some lubrication jelly and placed it back into its hole. This resolved the issue and stopped the rattling. I re-assembled the headphones and tested by shaking and tilting my head and no rattling was evident.
Just a point to watch out for when you remove and replace the C-shape split washer that holds the hinge spindle. It is very small and if you are not careful it can spring off and you may lose it. Make sure you have a good set of needle-nose pliers to hold it securely and cover with your finger as you remove and replace it.
I have attached some photos of the hinge assembly and the small metal rod that was causing the rattling noise. I have highlighted the relevant parts using a red circle.
https://imgur.com/cWUBCo4
https://imgur.com/6smvV5l
https://imgur.com/NpeGDoX
