[heliosphann]

Just got myself a nice bonus from work. Think I want to step into the ZMF world. Was going to go with a Diana TC or V2, but after some more research they don’t seem like they’ll work with the music I’m listening to.

I am looking for a headphone similar to the Utopia but without the clipping and comfort issues. Looking for a resolving headphone with that’s slightly warmer, maintains a similar speed/punch with a bit more sub bass.

I love old hip hop, 80’s, edm and modern music. Stuck between the atrium and the Verite open/closed (leaning open).

Like a few people have said, the VO or VC sounds what you're looking for. With the music genre's you listed, I'd probably lean towards the VC.

A VC/Atrium combo would be pretty amazing if you could swing both!

 

[orrman]

Like a few people have said, the VO or VC sounds what you're looking for. With the music genre's you listed, I'd probably lean towards the VC.

A VC/Atrium combo would be pretty amazing if you could swing both!

strongly recommend the VC/Atrium combo or maybe wait for the rumored Atrium Closed that might show up later this year

 

[aloki]

ZMF ATRIUM OPEN PAD REVIEW
​

Yes, it’s time again for yet another pad review extravaganza. This time around it’s for ZMF’s latest headphone, the ATRIUM OPEN. For the rest of the review I will just refer to it as the Atrium, but in case you weren’t aware, a Closed version of the Atrium is coming sometime in the future. Also if haven’t read my “review” of the Atrium, here it is for your pleasure (or pain): https://www.head-fi.org/showcase/zmfheadphones-atrium.25763/review/28246/

For this evaluation I used a regular cherry wood Atrium with the stock Titan mesh installed. While pad swapping will have a much larger sonic impact than any cable, I exclusively used a ZMF 2K Copper cable which is a great match for the Atrium. I also reviewed this cable several years ago: https://www.head-fi.org/threads/zmf-verite.890270/post-14985973

No equalization was utilized during evaluation. All pads in this review are PERFORATED. I’ve experimented in the past with solid pads on open ZMF headphones and the results are mediocre at best. I also would like to remind everyone that we all hear differently and have our own sonic preferences, so just as with other audio gear, I highly suggest auditioning these pads yourself if possible.

Chain used: TIDAL&FLACs>Singxer SU-1>Schiit Yggdrasil A1>DNA Stratus/OG Cavalli Liquid Gold>Atrium

ZMF ATRIUM RECOMMENDED PADS​

Universe Lambskin (stock pads)

Great transient response. Best dynamics out of all pads tested. Most overall satisfying bass response. Respectable sub bass extension and excellent bass impact. Trademark ZMF tuned midrange with some lively and engaging upper mids. Treble is pleasing with satisfying extension and no peaks or grain. Immersive, but natural sounding staging with accurate imaging. Has good width, depth and vertical presentation. Comfort is decent due to pad depth.

My #1 pads. For the first several weeks I listened to the Atrium, I didn’t even feel the need to swap the Universe Lambskin pads out. Turns out my initial gut feeling was right (for once…). I think one of the biggest reasons these were chosen as the Atrium’s stock pads is that they excel at balancing both a “fun” and “technical” sound. Not likely a coincidence, they are also the best all around set of pads for listening to a wide range of music. What really draws me back to the Uni Lamb pads time and time again is that they highlight the Atrium’s amazing dynamics and spirited bass response. For those reasons, these are my go to everyday pads.


Universe Hybrids

Overall a smoother presentation compared to the Universe Lambskin pads. While still good technically, it does lose some transient response (percussion instruments aren’t as lively and snappy.) Bass quantity and impact drop slightly, as well as sub bass extension. Mids are slightly pushed forward and upper mids are smoothed out. The treble, especially the presence range, is also somewhat reduced. There is a small amount of added air, but the staging isn’t as wide as the Uni Lamb’s. Increased comfort with the plush suede pad face.

My #3 pads. Similar to the Auteur Hybrids, these are very close sounding to their full leather counterparts. The Universe Hybrid pads are a great option if you’re looking for a more relaxed, euphoric listening experience from the Atrium. While you do lose some of the Atrium’s technical prowess, you’re not straying too far from its stock sound. Just like the Uni Lamb pads, these work well with a large variety of music genres. I think these could be a great match if you find the Uni Lamb pads a little too aggressive, or possibly have a brighter gear chain.


Universe Suede

Not as smooth and relaxed as the Uni Hybrids. Even bigger reduction in bass quantity and impact. Sub bass extension is also even further reduced from the Uni Hybrids. The midrange is more similar to the Uni Lamb pads than the Hybrids. Treble is also closer to the Uni Lamb’s, but with a boost in presence region that adds excellent clarity. Staging is more like the Uni Lamb pads with a significant amount of added air. The most comfortable set of pads reviewed.

My #6 Pads. For the most part I’ve been rather hard on suede pads with ZMF headphones. The decrease in dynamics and transient response has always been a deal breaker for me. With that being said, I was pleasantly surprised with the Uni Suede pads. Yes, you’re still missing out on the Atrium’s driver’s full technical abilities, but it’s not as noticeable as with several other ZMF headphones. One thing that really stood out to me about these pads was vocals sounded particularly seductive. The added clarity and sense of air was also a highlight for me. While I wouldn't necessarily use these for pop, hip-hop and electronic music, I really enjoyed classic rock, jazz and acoustic music. These pads might also be a great pairing for someone that has a darker sounding system, or even better yet, some bass leaning tubes.


BE2 Lambskin

Best transient response of the recommended pads. Bass impact, quantity and sub bass are a little less than the Universe Lambskin pads. Bass quality is tighter and more accurate. Mids are pushed slightly forward and not as full sounding. Treble is very similar to Uni Lamb pads. Staging is significantly more narrow, but increased vertically. Has less perceivable depth and doesn’t image as well. Least comfortable pads due to the pad depth and material used.

My #8 pads. These were a little surprising considering they are my favorite pad for the Verite Open. The BE2 Lambskin are more technical and linear sounding than the other pads, so if you prioritize that, they might be perfect for you. I enjoyed how quick and concise they sounded, as well as how tight and nimble the bass became. They also worked well with pretty much any musical genre I threw at them. In the end though, they just weren't what I was looking for out of the Atirum. I also couldn’t help but be bothered by their comfort. While I never really had any issues with the BE2 Lambs with the VO, on the Atrium the pads touched my ears and were quite distracting. YMMV depending on your head shape, etc…


BE2 Hybrid

Not as good of transient response as BE2 Lambskin pads. Huge mid bass increase as well as a significant upper bass and sub bass bump. Bass is not nearly as tight, and can sound somewhat boomy and bloated at times. Upper mid energy is reduced and scooped out. Treble is a lot smoother than the BE2 Lambs. Staging is similar, but images better and is more cohesive sounding. Comfort, while still not great, is moderately improved.

My #9 pads. It’s safe to say that these are the black sheep of the family. I did not expect such a large deviation from the BE2 Lambskins. In particular the massive bass boost stood out like a polar bear at a tiki bar. Bass heads will no doubt enjoy these, but I think they’re audience is rather limited. listeners of pop, electronic and hip hop. I enjoyed these with certain songs (mostly hip hop, pop and electronic music), but others not so much. It’d be interesting to see how these pads measure, as there’s definitely some tomfoolery going on. Ultimately the BE2 Lamb pads just seem to pull the Atrium too far away from its sound. If you’re looking for that type of sound, there’s several other ZMF models that do it much better.


BE2 Suede

Slight step down from the transient response of BE2 Lambskin pads. Overall bass quantity is lowered and more neutral leaning. Bass is similar quality as the BE2 Lamb’s, but lacking some impact. Mids are a little leaner than the BE2 Lamb pads. Treble is smooth, but has nice sparkle and added clarity. Staging is more open and airy sounding vs. the BE2 Hybrid pads. Imaging is also very similar, if not slightly better. Comfort is about the same as the BE2 Hybrid pads.

My #5 pads. Apparently you never know what you’re going to get with the BE2 pads and the Atrium. The combination of suede with thinner pads really pairs well with these headphones, as these were easily my favorite of the three BE2 pads. They push the Atriums closer to neutral more than any other pad, but still retain good technical attributes. Vocals in particular were pleasant, clear and detailed. I personally would have liked a little more bass, but others might enjoy the more accurate response. I could also see these as being a little too bright and linear sounding for some. The BE2 Suede pads also sounded well with most everything, but wouldn’t be my first choice with pop, hip hop and electronic music.


Auteur Lambskin

A touch slower transient response from the Universe Lambskin pads. Bass quantity is ever so slightly reduced, with less bass impact being more noticeable. Sub bass also is lower than the Uni Lamb’s. Mids are pushed back slightly and upper mids have a little less energy. Treble is a tad smoother vs Uni Lamb pads. Staging is not quite as wide, but is larger vertically with excellent depth. Staging also has more of a 3D presentation. Imaging on par with the Uni Lamb pads. Comfort is similar to the Uni Lamb pads, but could be better/worse due to being more angled.

My #2 pads. A clear cut runner-up for me, which could just as well easily be #1 for many others. For the most part, these are pretty similar to the Universe Lambskin pads. Where they drastically differ is the staging, which is much more immersive and 3D like. Instruments that might image more to the left/right on the Uni Lamb pads can be positioned more behind and to the left/right, etc... I think whether someone prefers these pads over the Uni Lamb pads will be highly dependent on personal preference, and how well they align with their gear. For me personally, I chose the Uni Lamb pads over the Auteur Lamb’s because they’re more dynamic sounding and have more traditional staging. Highly recommended as your optional pad choice when purchasing an Atrium.


Auteur Hybrid

Transient response isn’t quite as fast as the Auteur Lambskin pads. Bass quantity and impact is overall lowered, but not to a great degree. Mids are ever so slightly pushed forward. Treble is a little smoothed out over the Auteur Lambs. Small bump in clarity and sense of air. Staging is a little more cohesive and less 3D sounding/immersive. Upgrade in comfort vs Auteur Lamb pads.

My #4 pads. Perhaps the most predictable pads of the entire lot, these are essentially just a more relaxed version of the Auteur Lambskins. The extra hint of sweetness to vocals, added clarity and delicateness were welcomed during my listening sessions. The staging isn’t quite as extreme as the Auteur Lamb’s, which could be a plus/minus depending on the listener. I think these would most likely pair well with a brighter chain, or if you just want an overall more chill listening experience.


Auteur Suede

Slight decrease in transients from Auteur Hybrid pads. Low end is dropped across the board, as well as bass impact. Bass is also not as tight and less defined. Mids are pushed even more forward than the Auteur Hybrids. Vocals are extremely good, especially female. Treble is very similar vs Auteur Hybrids, but with a little more sparkle. Staging is even more linear sounding and not as large. Imaging is not as strong as the other Auteur pads. Comfort is 2nd only to the Universe Suede pads.

My #7 pads. These pads are more in line with what I’ve previously experienced with other Suede ZMF pads. Everything comes across as slightly too soft for my taste, and really detracts from the wonderful qualities of the Atrium’s Bio-cellular driver. Still, they do sound good with acoustic music and like I mentioned previously, female vocals are quite amazing. In my opinion, there are much better pad choices available that yield better results across the board.

OUTLIER ZMF PADS​

I tested a few other ZMF perforated pads, but they weren’t more viable than anything mentioned above. Also just getting perforated Verite pads and Ori pads mounted onto the Atrium was more of a hassle that it was worth. Although I have to admit, turning the Atrium into bass cannons with the Ori’s was kinda fun.

I omitted EIKON perforated pads as they are not recommended over the Auteur pads, which are actually the same exact pads with a larger ear cavity. That doesn’t mean they won’t work well with the Atrium, but I wouldn't expect a massive difference vs the same Auteur pads. Down the road I might see how they perform with the Atrium, but for now I think I’m done pad swapping for a while…

WRAP UP​

So many pads and so few ears. The Universe Lambskin and Auteur Lambskin pads are without question the cream of the crop in my mind. Like I mentioned earlier, I could see either one of these being someone's preferred pad for the Atrium. Possibly even one of their more relaxed hybrid siblings. The rest of the pads will push further away from the Atrium’s tuning, but they still might work best for someone out there. After all, there is no wrong answer. Well, except using non-perforated pads…

The ZMF Atrium really is a special headphone, and having so many pad choices is always a good thing. That is until it’s time to pick out which pads you want. Hopefully this write-up will help make that decision a little easier and help you enjoy your Atrium even more.

Feel free to post or PM me with any questions or complaints. I’ll also gladly accept showering's of praise to help feed my ego. Thanks for reading!






VERITE OPEN PAD REVIEW
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/zmf-verite-open.890270/post-16439819

VERITE CLOSED PAD REVIEW
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/zmf-verite-closed-new-closed-back-zmf-flagship.911505/page-100#post-15296496

ZMF VÉRITÉ CLOSED vs. ZMF VÉRITÉ OPEN
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/zmf-verite.890270/post-15402213

Pad rolling isn’t my favorite activity, I am more of a set and forget person, but I finally got around to trying the perf Auteur pads, and I gotta say I agree 100% with your take. I thought I saw a chart that said the Auteur pads would be warmer, and I instinctively thought that meant more bass, but I was wrong! I also think the universe pads have slightly better instrument separation. Busy metal or industrial passages had better clarity with the Uni pads for me. Thus far (VO, VC, and Atrium), I’m fully in the universe pad team for each . Truly living up to its name!

 

[kmmbd]

Feliks-Audio Euforia Anniversary Edition is one of the best OTL tube amps I've ever heard.

The pairing with ZMF Atrium was otherwordly. Bass slam, texture, and speed all got better whereas the stage depth increased noticeably over the other amp I had on the side: Feliks Echo mk.2 (which are no slouch by the way). I guess it's time I updated my ZMF Atrium review because they sure go up a notch in performance after using amps of this class.

 

[yolosauce]

Ordered the solid mesh. I love the stock mesh but i like to mix things up.

 

[SlothRock]

Wish me luck folks. My Koa Atriums reached and left a location 6 hours from me just now which will put them on the edge of arriving on time tomorrow or pushing to Thursday. Hoping to wake up to an “out for delivery” update!

 

[rhenom]

I got my Atriums in the mail today. They are quite comfortable for how heavy they are, and I'm glad I went with the suede headband option as I think it is more padded and softer than the leather headband. They sound good straight out of the box with no burn in, but I'm also not an audio reviewer so I'll need more time and burn in before I can make a detailed assessment.

My aged cherry cups came out fairly dark.

 

[jinxy245]

I got my Atriums in the mail today. They are quite comfortable for how heavy they are, and I'm glad I went with the suede headband option as I think it is more padded and softer than the leather headband. They sound good straight out of the box with no burn in, but I'm also not an audio reviewer so I'll need more time and burn in before I can make a detailed assessment.

My aged cherry cups came out fairly dark.

Awesome pics...looking forward to your impressions!

 

[rjones36]

Just wanted to report back that over the past few weeks the sound really opened up for the Atrium.

@Monsterzero spoke about how this happen to him with the Atrium. I appreciate him doing that video. It was one of the earliest reviews I saw where I was experiencing the same issue he described, where it sounded good, but wasn't hearing a great deal of soundstage and depth. But now that has all changed. I have been going back though all kinds of tracks just to see if I hear a difference in sound and yea... the presentation has really improved. The more time I spend with this headphone the more I am able to compare it some other ones I own and can see where the Atrium really excels.

Also note, listening to them through the Iris DDC > Pontus II > Feliks Audio Echo MK II or Burson Soloist 3X GT

 

[lllkkkoo]

Just wanted to report back that over the past few weeks the sound really opened up for the Atrium.

@Monsterzero spoke about how this happen to him with the Atrium. I appreciate him doing that video. It was one of the earliest reviews I saw where I was experiencing the same issue he described, where it sounded good, but wasn't hearing a great deal of soundstage and depth. But now that has all changed. I have been going back though all kinds of tracks just to see if I hear a difference in sound and yea... the presentation has really improved. The more time I spend with this headphone the more I am able to compare it some other ones I own and can see where the Atrium really excels.

Also note, listening to them through the Iris DDC > Pontus II > Feliks Audio Echo MK II or Burson Soloist 3X GT

Nice, How long did it take for your atrium to open up? i just received mine also, running them with ferrum stack, currently running them in. im only about 30 hours in at this point.

 

[rjones36]

Nice, How long did it take for your atrium to open up? i just received mine also, running them with ferrum stack, currently running them in. im only about 30 hours in at this point.

I believe it is around 150 hrs. Might be a little more though. I use the headphones usually late in the evenings. I remember looking at my calendar and knowing that roughly around this time I would of achieved that given number based on my use.

 

[lllkkkoo]

I believe it is around 150 hrs. Might be a little more though. I use the headphones usually late in the evenings. I remember looking at my calendar and knowing that roughly around this time I would of achieved that given number based on my use.

Cool. Thanks for the infos!

 

[WillieB]

Pad rolling isn’t my favorite activity, I am more of a set and forget person, but I finally got around to trying the perf Auteur pads, and I gotta say I agree 100% with your take. I thought I saw a chart that said the Auteur pads would be warmer, and I instinctively thought that meant more bass, but I was wrong! I also think the universe pads have slightly better instrument separation. Busy metal or industrial passages had better clarity with the Uni pads for me. Thus far (VO, VC, and Atrium), I’m fully in the universe pad team for each . Truly living up to its name!

For the VC, are you using the solid or perf Universe pads? I have to say the VC is my least favorite of the 3 ZMF HPs that I own(still my favorite closed back). I have tried the stock(Auteur solid) and Be2 solid on the VC so far. At first, I though the Be2 was an improvement, but after switching back, it may just be that it was just different. I had been listening to VC for a couple of weeks straight back when I first put them on so perhaps I was just ready for a change? I'm thinking of trying the Universe as well because they are shaping up to be my favorite on Atrium and are definitely my favorite on VO, in perf, of course.

 

[aloki]

For the VC, are you using the solid or perf Universe pads? I have to say the VC is my least favorite of the 3 ZMF HPs that I own(still my favorite closed back). I have tried the stock(Auteur solid) and Be2 solid on the VC so far. At first, I though the Be2 was an improvement, but after switching back, it may just be that it was just different. I had been listening to VC for a couple of weeks straight back when I first put them on so perhaps I was just ready for a change? I'm thinking of trying the Universe as well because they are shaping up to be my favorite on Atrium and are definitely my favorite on VO, in perf, of course.

I am using the solid universe that came stock. The alternative pads that came with my set were Auteur solid and those were nice but not as engaging as the Universe pads. I feel like for me, the Universe pads on the VC had better clarity and a more 3D-like staging whereas the Auteur had a still deep, but more traditional left to right staging. My VO get the most play time normally. The Atrium is the new toy and listening to it exclusively for a few weeks. I love the VC, but I prefer the VO. The VC is my favorite closed back though. Aside from the Stellia, I don’t think there’s another flagship closed back that competes with the VC.

 

[wkesquire]

Like a few people have said, the VO or VC sounds what you're looking for. With the music genre's you listed, I'd probably lean towards the VC.

A VC/Atrium combo would be pretty amazing if you could swing both!

I listen to such a wide variety of music that no one headphone will be perfect for every song, but the VC/Atrium combo covers just about all the bases for me. Plus they look pretty good together too.

I’m also not a headphone reviewer--I write about music. But I’ll definitely have some sound impressions of the Atrium to share in this forum, once my Atrium has burned in and I’ve had time to do a proper comparison with the VC and Auteur.