Curly Maple – Also known as tiger maple or fiddleback, Curly Maple represents one of nature's most mesmerizing optical illusions in wood. This rare figuring phenomenon occurs when wood fibers grow in undulating waves perpendicular to the grain, creating a three-dimensional chatoyant effect that ripples and flows across the surface. As light plays across the wood, the curls shimmer and shift, producing signature "flame" patterns that luthiers and craftsmen have prized for centuries. The effect ranges from subtle ripples to dramatic tiger stripes, with warm, honey-toned heartwood—from pale cream to rich golden amber—providing the perfect canvas for this natural artistry.
Our Fall 2025 Bokeh Open LTD showcases this exceptional wood throughout, with Curly Maple cups paired with matching Curly Maple grilles featuring stunning new limited edition artwork. Created by our designer Maggie, the custom grille design features an elegant gradient that flows seamlessly across the surface, complementing the wood's natural flame patterns with artistic intention. Purple grille cloth provides sophisticated contrast that enhances both the warm maple tones and the artistic grille work, while the black suede chassis with steel rods adds refined comfort.
Sonically, Curly Maple's balanced density provides excellent resonance control, enhancing the Bokeh's versatile 80-ohm LCP driver with its easy-to-drive efficiency and exceptional scaling. Each set celebrates the marriage of natural beauty and intentional design—a portable, accessible ZMF that brings artistry to every listening session.
Learn more about the wood we use in our headphones here.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Impedance: 80 Ohms
- Driver: LCP (Liquid Crystal Polymer)
- Weight: 480g ±20g
- Sensitivity: ~103dB/mW
INCLUDES
- Bokeh Open Curly Maple
- ZMF Stock Braided Cable
- ZMF Caldera Hybrid (protein/suede) Ultra Perf Pads
- Optional Tuning kit
- ZMF Owner's Card
- ZMF Clamshell Case
- Lifetime Driver Warranty