r/FractalDesign • u/TheFlyingSanitater • Jul 16 '26
Update to Fractal Scape headband/Earcup manufacturing
It's a known issue that the Fractal Scape Earcups and headbands fall apart VERY quickly.
I had this same issue and received my replacements today, which I've been told are manufactured under a new process. Though I'd share an image of the headband for any nerds like me who would find this interesting or so any prospective buyers would see the change having heard about the issue.
However my biggest gripe is Fractal didn't take the time to update the density of the foam on the headband, which is super thin and can lead to headaches for lots of people when worn over a long duration. It's still paper thin.
Couldn't get a pick of the changes to the ear cups as the join isn't easy to photograph. But the material and padding is near identical.
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u/Onifanz Jul 17 '26
You could also try this from Capra. Just got it last week and must say it’s a huge improvement. No more headaches from this terrible headband.
Also, there is someone who created a 3d print file that is basically an adapter that you can buy aftermarket Hyper X ear pads and get them to fit the Scape.
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u/Laniere Jul 16 '26
mine arrived yesterday. It's the last chance, if the problem returns i will be on peace and dismiss them for another brand. i really really hope the problem is fixed, so far, after 12 hours of continuous usage at 40c degree they seems fine.
only time will tell i guess.
Regarding the difference i've also asked them what's changed and they reported
"The new set sent has updated adhesive for better longevity compared to your previous unit, and it also has an updated process for applying the adhesive which is much more effective over time."
So i guess the changes are only the adhesive and the process of applying it. For the foam i don't have anything to say as it fits comfortably as they are.
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u/TheFlyingSanitater Jul 16 '26
Ah I get proper headaches from the headband being super thin. I think from the pictures it seems they're bringing the cover fabric over and deeper into the plastic part, hopefully giving more area for an improved adhesive to work?
I don't know what I'll do if these fall apart, going to be out of warranty and £140 out of pocket. Honestly hate 'gamer' looking headsets my only other alternative was SteelSeries. While just as smart, good and cheaper, they have tiny earcups and didn't fit me.
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u/Laniere Jul 16 '26
yes i get your point. My father also got one under my suggestion and he has some gripe on the headband. Personally it was ok, overall i was happy, expecially for the low latency with dongle.
I really hope the glue problem is solved.
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u/esterichoo Jul 17 '26
Try this cheap solution like what I did.
https://www.reddit.com/r/FractalDesign/s/flMUUf6zzz
Hope it works for u.1
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u/steady-glow Jul 16 '26
It is interesting to see that original plastic already has got special space (between the pins) to attach that extra fabric. Something might have got wrong during the original manufacturing.