I've been thinking about 3D-modelling and printing cups that go over the existing cups and clip onto them, in order to be able to close off open-back headphones. My questions would be...
(1) Has anyone tried this? I've searched for it on reddit but mostly found replacements for the existing cups, not really any easily detachable solutions.
(2) Could I expect similar sound to the closed-back version, or how far-reaching are the differences between open/closed-back siblings? I'm thinking 990=>770 or 1990=>1770
(3) I suppose I should add some dampening material on the inside to reduce reflections back from the added cups into the headphones, but what material and how much of it?
I've recently been thinking about getting a pair of 1770s in addition to the 1990s for their fun frequency response with more bass and a little less treble compared to the 1990s, and then started wondering how much of that I can achieve if I just seal off the 1990s with removable cups. Let's hear your thoughts!
I’ve tried a bit with HD800S and HD650 but the issue is the open back design is optimized for the acoustic impedance with no cups. Adding the cups changes the driver dynamics and this the FR. Also, without proper and optimized dampening, it’ll be reflection city and you’ll lose detail and instrument separation.
I’m not saying it can’t be done, just it’s much harder than slapping some 3D prints and calling it a day
Isn't that the issue with the Closed Sundaras/some of Hifiman's closed line-up? From what I've heard they've basically slapped on a closed design without really changing the damping inside. Makes sense that people describe them as sounding quite wonky and nothing like what you'd expect an actual closed Sundara to sound like.
I haven’t tried either sundara variants but It makes sense if they didn’t optimize it. I know the HD820 is widely regarded as sounding strange (and I agree) and senny probably spent a lot of time on that.