Audiophilepure

We already know that ZMF like using different ear pads as they can easily that to alter the headphone’s tuning. The Bokeh pads are an evolution of ZMF’s Caldera pads design, and there are different versions available: Hybrid, Suede and Protein (see pics). All of the pads incorporate a distinctive fluted design, asymmetrical ear-side hole orientation, and a skewed Z-Axis angle for an optimal seal on the submental space of your neck, ensuring unparalleled comfort and sound. The driver side’s inner diameter can adapt seamlessly to airflow requirements, without messing up your sensory experience via the outer diameter that touches the skin thanks to the fluted design. Tweak the circular axis on the baffle to make these pads your own, so the thickest part matches perfectly with your unique contours

https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/grado-sr325x

Comfort is another area where these headphones divide opinions. At 340g, they’re not heavy, and there’s enough in the way of adjustment to cope with a wide variety of heads. But not everyone will get along with the new foam earpads, or the on-ear design – which is becoming increasingly rare in a world dominated by noise-cancelling wireless cans. These are firmly wired headphones aimed at home use, so we would warn against taking these out on the move.

Even as long-term Grado users, it takes us a while to get used to them due to their thinness and overall shape, but it’s worth persisting. A few days of acclimatisation makes us more kindly disposed towards them, particularly as the new earpads cause a subtle shift to the balance of the SR325x’s sound, making them a less demanding listen.

We compare the two types of earpads and it becomes clear that the headphones sound smoother and more authoritative in the bass with the new design. We try the new pads on previous generations of the SR325s (we have both the older ‘e’ and even older ‘i’ versions on hand) and in each case the sonic changes are consistent; a more direct presentation with greater top-end refinement and improved low-end solidity.

The emphasis in the low end is in the mid bass region with a focus around 150Hz and a decline on either side of that peak. That emphasis combined with the elevated treble creates a moderately V-shaped tuning that is a bit different than the original.  

The mid bass emphasis also helps add a bit of warmth and weight giving the Liric II more body than the original. Mid bass textures are good with plenty of detail and more than enough speed; the Liric II sounds clearer and more impactful overall in this area.