What's with the bump inside HD595's?

[Shadowex3]

It's solid and quite hard so I don't think it's part of the speaker and it's shaped oddly (and too hard) for something designed to hold your ear. Does anyone know what it is or does? (picture for anyone wondering, you can sorta see it in the back side of the ear socket.)

 

[Ryan Williams]

It intentionally influences the acoustics, contributing to the 595's sound signature. As I'm sure you're aware, the physical shape of a speaker or headphone can have significant impact on the overall sound that reaches the ear.

I believe it's specifically designed to better direct the sound into the ear canal.

 

[breakfastchef]

The design intentionally directs sound toward your ear.

 

[moogoob]

What they said. The HD555 has that bump too.

 

[QQQ]

It justifies the "surround reflector" part in 555 advertisments

 

[Shadowex3]

I figured. it just pokes my ears in an uncomfortable way, i guess i'll get used to it eventually.

 

[Ryan Williams]

Do you have any research to back up your assertion QQQ, such as modifying the headphones so the bump isn't there? Otherwise I fail to see how you can conclusively say it doesn't affect the sound.

My intuition — not Sennheiser's marketing — tells me that a modification of the acoustic compartment should have an effect on the sound. Granted, it's something usually done in speakers and not headphones, but the concept should carry over.

 

[moogoob]

Well, I'm not sure what effect the bump has, but any change to the physical shape of the cans around the drivers will affect the sound, and often noticeably too. Just try putting your palms over the air-grills of a pair of Grados, or switch Grado earpads from bowls to comfies.

 

[MrKazador]

I've started to feel the bump on my ear. I think because the pad has worn down. I flipped mine (i think?) when I did the soundstage mod and seemed to fix the problem.

 

[QQQ]

Ryan Williams, yes i've modified the, to death.

 

[musicmind]

I believe its to do with Sennheiser's so-called "angled drivers" in the HD 5x5 range.

 

[Budgie]

This link will explain the circuit inside the bump in the earcup-

US Patents for subliminal suggestion & mind control by audio, visual & electronic methods

 

[Jo-Vo]

Hi!

The bump is where the headband is connected to the driver's housings.

Greets
Jonas

 

[Chri5peed]

Driver positioning makes a big deal. Noticed how the drivers in 595s do not sit parallel to your ear?

Same with A900s, much more pronounced. Having separate pads and no internal grill.

 

[QQQ]

Quote:

The bump is where the headband is connected to the driver's housings.

Listen to the man. Without this bump, there's no room inside to connect the headband.