How to Make Headphones Soundproof

Soundproof headphones are the ultimate in comfort, not for their size, style, or quality, but for their ability to completely block out the external world – no listening to keyboards tap in the library, the roar of an airplanes engines, or the sound of dogs barking while relaxing in your hammock. Soundproof headphones are specifically designed to block out as much as 98% of the ambient noise around you, as well as keep the sound of whatever your are listening to confined to your own ears.

The downside to soundproof headphones is their cost. They cost more than normal headphones, partly because soundproof headphones are also generally higher-end DJ or audiophile cans. They can cost as little as $50, or as much as $500+. If you already have a pair of stereo headphones and you don’t want to have to purchase a new pair, then this article is for you. This tutorial will teach your how to make DIY soundproof headphones – how to soundproof your own headphones.
This won’t work with earbuds, though soundproof earbuds are generally cheaper to purchase because they aren’t in demand as much, and because it’s easier to soundproof something buried in your own ear. This also won’t work with the cheap headphones that come with CD players or that can be bought in dollar stores – the ones with just a bit of plastic the actual speaker.

The headphones must have actual ‘cans’ – that is, a cup that surrounds the speaker. It doesn’t have to be huge, but it does have to be present. If you have these headphones, then proceed on to the soundproofing instructions.

Items Needed:

Silly Putty
Cotton balls
Small Screwdriver set

Step 1: It’s important to note two things before making these headphones. The first is that after following these instructions, you can’t take these headphones anywhere you’ll have to have them x-rayed – for example, every airport on the planet. In addition, they will be a bit heavier after soundproofing than they were when you bought them.

Step 2: Carefully peel off, unscrew, or snap off the cushioned ear pads that sit over the speakers. For most stereo headsets, they twist off.

Step 3: After the ear pads are off, you’ll probably see a series of small screws. For some headsets, however, they are just plastic clips. Unscrew the screws or push in the plastic clips and slide the top plastic off. You’ll see the speakers and a lot of empty space.

Step 4: Take the Silly Putty and roll it in your hands until it is soft and easy to mold. Place it in the empty shell and press it down firmly, molding it around the speaker. Fill the shell with as much Putty as needed to completely fill it. Repeat with the opposite shell.

Step 5: Replace the plastic face plates and screw them down. Replace the ear pads and try them out.

You’ll notice that they are a few ounces heavier than regular headphones, so you shouldn’t do this to sets you want to be portable. Also, remember not to take them threw airports or similar areas, as the x-ray scanner will show the putty and it will cause you problems.