Openback Headphones

Project Overview

Updated headband is up!

This project started as an experiment to repurpose drivers from my old Audio-Technica M50x headphones. The goal was to create a fully functional, DIY-friendly pair of headphones.

No project is ever truly finished, is it? 😉 The headband still needs a proper headrest and as its based on m50x id like to re use the single side connector. So expect further refinements,

Required Hardware

• 2x M4x14 hex screws
• 2x M4 nuts
• 8x M3x16 hex screws
• 8x M3 nuts

Drivers

I used a worn-out pair of Audio-Technica M50x that still had good drivers.
🔗 https://www.audio-technica.com/en-eu/ath-m50x 

Earcups

I used Meze 99 Classics earcups.
🔗 https://mezeaudio.eu/products/earpads?variant=38973337031 

Connectors

Standard 3.5mm female jacks.
🔗 https://www.tinytronics.nl/en/cables-and-connectors/connectors/audio/audio-jack-3.5mm-female-(metal-and-plastic) 

Assembly Process

The build is as simple as possible, similar to assembling a Prusa printer, but some soldering is required to connect the drivers to the jacks.

• All holes are designed with tight clearance for nuts and bolts.
• Hexagonal holes hold the nuts, while round ones guide the bolts.
• Thread length tolerance is ±2mm.
• M3 bolts secure the earcups together.
• M4 bolts attach the hinges to the headband.
• No glue required—the drivers are press-fit, so no additional hardware was needed.

Symmetry

The design is bi-directional, meaning left and right sides are identical. The only way to define left and right is by plugging in the wire accordingly.

Printable Parts

• 2x: D1, D2, D3, D4, D7
• 1x: D5, D6

Print Settings

• Material: Fiberlogy Matte PETG
• Layer Height: 0.15mm
• Infill: 20%
• Walls: 4
• Top/Bottom Layers: 5-6
• Support Angle: 30°

Future Improvements

As with any DIY project, there’s always room for improvement!

• Self ajusting headband like on Mezes
• Improving printablility

Want to Customize It?

Feel free to modify and share your results!

Its my first headphone design so feedback is highly valued!

If you make one, share your build—I’d love to see different variations and modifications!