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Best Grado Headphones 2024

Grado Labs, a family-owned company established in 1953, has been dedicated to audio excellence for decades. Their headphones are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, distinctive design, and the comfort they provide to the listener. Grado headphones are often described as having a “Grado sound signature,” which is characterized by detailed, clean, and quick response, often with a warm and musical tone.

GRADO SR325e Stereo Headphones

Grado SR325e headphones are a testament to Grado Labs commitment to exceptional audio quality and unique speaker design. These headphones are part of the Prestige Series, which is a lineup known for its detailed and dynamic sound. The SR325e, sitting at the top of this series, continues the tradition with its own set of acoustic characteristics that appeal to audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

SR325e is an open-back, on-ear model that boasts a retro aesthetic, reminiscent of a classic radio operator’s headset. This design choice is not merely for looks; it plays a crucial role in the headphones’ sound profile. The open-back nature allows for a wide soundstage, giving the listener a sense of space and positioning that closed-back designs often struggle to achieve. However, this also means that they leak sound, which can be a consideration if you’re in a quiet environment or around others.

The build quality of the SR325e is solid, featuring powder-coated aluminum housings that are both durable and satisfyingly weighty. The foam ear pads are designed to hang over the ears rather than hug them, providing an airy and cool experience during extended listening sessions. While some may prefer a tighter grip, the SR325e’s fit is secure without feeling too loose. In terms of audio signal transmission, the SR325e uses a copper wire that is known for its excellent conductivity, ensuring that the audio quality is preserved from the source to your ears. The sound signature of these headphones is characterized by clear highs, sparkling detail, and a warm midrange. Vocals, especially female voices, are rendered beautifully, making the SR325e a great choice for vocal-centric tracks.

The Grado SR325e’s sound is often described as having a beautiful sharpness and well-imaged presentation, which is a hallmark of Grado models. The headphones sound particularly good with rock and acoustic genres, where the intricate details of the music can be fully appreciated. However, the bass response may not satisfy those who prefer a more pronounced low-end thump.

One potential downside for some users is the comfort level. The on-ear design and flat pads may not be to everyone’s liking, especially during long listening sessions. Some may find the need to adjust the headband or swap out the ear pads for a more comfortable fit.

GRADO SR80e Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones

Grado SR80e Prestige Series Headphones
  • Upgraded driver design. Connectivity Technology: Wired
  • Large ear cushions for comfortable listening
  • Adjustable, soft vinyl headband

Grado’s SR80e is something of an anomaly in today’s headphone market. Not only is the grado house sound handcrafted in Brooklyn, New York, but they’re not proudly tech-savvy. There is no Bluetooth connectivity, no in-line microphone or active noise canceling, and thanks to their open design, they’re hopelessly impractical for commuting or commuting to the office. Despite all of these flaws, however, the Grado SR80e delivers an unrivaled listening experience at its price range and is unbeatable value for money for an audiophile headphone brands in pure sound.

Grado’s Prestige series of headphone models has been around for over twenty-five years and this is immediately evident in the design of its SR80e headphones. With a build quality designed to sit on your ears rather than on them, the grado lineup simply consist of two large plastic earphones connected by metal rods to a simple vinyl headband. While the sleek retro look is a statement series, the flip side is that the headphones aren’t sturdy and aren’t particularly practical. The cord, for example, is a chunky, non-detachable wire that attaches directly to each earbud, and while the earbuds can rotate 360 ​​degrees, there’s no way to fold the earbuds for storage.

Matching 0.1dB speakers deliver a punchy bass texture at high speeds, while maintaining exceptional midrange tones. As mentioned, the open back construction means the conductors are exposed. This is impressive considering how strong the bass resonance is, as this style usually results in a flat, low pitched sound. The ear cushions are very comfortable because they don’t compress your ears and cause pain when removing each other. They are lightweight which makes them easy to travel. Plus, the long cable is handy for those who play instruments when plugged into a stereo or other device.

If you’re worried about the price range of over ear headphones, the best Grado audiophile headphones in this series fall somewhere in the mid-range of headphones, so they shouldn’t really bother you on the cost front. In terms of performance, the sound quality is smooth, creamy and warm. The sound quality is second to none. Grado SR80e is the Best Grado Headphones.

GRADO SR60e Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

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The SR60e headphones are designed to dampen static electricity in the plastic construction for more enjoyable listening. The new matching .1Db drivers are designed to move the air inside so that the vibrations can precisely block any distortion. It maintains the signature Grado sound full of clarity.Recover full spectrum sound with punchy bass sounds and uniform mids for a fully realistic experience. For such incredible quality in form and sound value, these are rather affordable compared to the competition.

High on quality, bass, midrange and treble are the main highlights while talking about the SR60e Prestige series from Grado. The audiophile sound are a good example of great durability and good value for money. On the look side, they may look like the old school ones, but they sure look stylish too. These do not have a fancy remote control inside, and also have a missing removable cable. But the sound quality puts them at par. In short, they would perfectly fall under the category of the best mid-priced Grado headphones, traditional in design and amazing sound quality with several latest upgrades missing (if they don’t really make a huge difference), they should be the ones that you would make love.

While the bass volume levels are perfect headphone, the higher treble is also well thought out. You can hear them in detail instead of being muffled like some others on the market. The midrange is smooth, so there are no irregularities when listening to all types of music, even harsher metallic or electric genres. What it lacks in a wireless connection it makes up for with a 2.1m long cable, which allows more freedom of movement than others on the market. These have the same super comfortable foam earmuffs as the previous ones, with a leather headband that is thin and fits the head well. These are true on-ear headphones, so they don’t seem bulky at the price point.

Grado SR60e is the best budget Grado Headphones.

GRADO SR125e Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

Whatever your musical taste, the Grado Prestige Series SR125e headphones can enhance the sound of your tracks. They deliver classic Grado sound in spades – intimate mids with full-bodied vocals, crisp, sparkling highs, and tight, punchy bass. These headphones feature updates to Grado’s previous SR125i headphones, including an improved driver design, better sound dampening and a new cable. Grado’s SpaceBlack polycarbonate enclosures minimize resonance and vibration, for crisp, clear sound. The feeling of warmth and immediacy of the SR125e can sometimes surprise you. We believe these phones are exceptional value for audiophiles on a budget. You can easily drive them with your portable player or laptop. They also benefit well from the addition of a headphone amplifier.

Every pair of SR125e headphones are still made in Brooklyn, New York, where the John Grado family have been making award-winning audio gear for over 60 years. Like all Grado headphones, the SR125e uses an “open-air” ventilated headphone design with large, non-resonant air chambers for a powerful and extended low-frequency response and a more open, spacious sound to your ear tips. The diaphragm of each speaker has been subjected to a special “de-stressing” process which allows it to provide more musical detail for an even greater soundstage during your listening sessions. A sturdy eight-conductor patch cable and ultra-high-purity copper voice coils give these phones a refined high-end, ultra-smooth and dynamic, yet tightly controlled bass.

This grado headphone are high-performance with a remarkable distinction between sound textures. Wide-open sound is produced due to the open-back structure. You have an equally smooth range between each sound level: punchy bass, lively mids, and sparkling highs. The first thing you will notice about these headphones is their design, and for good reason, they are extremely unique. The word “elegant” doesn’t necessarily apply here – but “classic” does. It’s also very simple: there’s a simple leather strap that goes over your head and the earbuds extend to different sizes thanks to a basic metal rod. We think the retro styling of these cans is a good thing for excellent dynamics – they don’t conform to the same treatment the Beats and Monster give their headphones, and that makes Grado’s headphones stand out.

Grado’s ability to combine lightness, extreme stiffness and internal damping has been put to good use in the wireless headphone. Based on the same design as the SR80e, the SR125e also features an improved driver and cable design using UHPLC (Ultra-High Purity, Long Crystal) copper voice coil wire. With the new 8-conductor cable design, you’ll notice improved control and stability of the upper and lower range of the frequency spectrum instead of high frequency, both of which better support Grado’s world-famous midrange. The diaphragms go through a special “de-stressing” process to enhance interior details. The way the wired headphones new driver, cable and plastic housing move air and respond to sound vibrations are now less affected by transient distortions. The bass, midrange and treble are all more open and you’ll appreciate the fine tonal distribution and balance.

GRADO RS2e Reference Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

Grado RS2e stands as a notable entry in the Grado family, embodying the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality audio through meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design. These headphones, part of the esteemed Reference Series, offer a unique listening experience that distinguishes them within the audiophile community.

Crafted with care, the RS2e features beautifully carved mahogany ear cups that not only contribute to its aesthetic appeal but also play a crucial role in its acoustic performance. The choice of wood, combined with Grado’s open-back design, ensures a natural and expansive soundstage, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in the music.

Comfort is a significant consideration for any on-ear headphones, and the RS2e addresses this with its lightweight construction and the option to use G-cush pads. These enhancements not only improve the sub-bass response and the overall soundstage but also make the headphones more comfortable for extended listening sessions. However, it’s worth noting that the non-removable, heavy cable might be a drawback for some users, despite the headphones’ otherwise user-friendly features.

Sonically, the RS2e shines across various genres, offering a detailed and dynamic sound signature that Grado is known for. The headphones excel in reproducing acoustic instruments and vocals with clarity and precision, making them particularly suited for genres like jazz, classical, and folk. While the bass is present and articulate, it may not satisfy those looking for a more pronounced low-end thump. Nonetheless, the RS2e’s ability to deliver melodic bass lines and its exceptional midrange detail make it a compelling choice for audiophiles who value musicality and detail over sheer power.

GRADO SR225e Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

The Grado SR225e headphones are a standout model in the Grado lineup, known for delivering an authentic and engaging listening experience. These on-ear headphones are part of Grado’s prestigious ‘e series’, which is a testament to the company’s continuous improvement in engineering and design. It maintains the classic Grado aesthetic, with a simple yet functional design that has become a signature of the brand. The open-back nature of these headphones contributes to their ability to produce a spacious soundstage, making them ideal for listeners who appreciate a sense of depth and openness in their music.

Despite being on-ears, the SR225e manages to provide a comfortable fit for most users, although the comfort level can be subjective and may vary depending on individual preferences and the duration of use. The foam ear pads and lightweight design contribute to the overall comfort, allowing for extended listening sessions without excessive fatigue.

The audio signal transmission in the SR225e is facilitated by a copper wire, which is known for its excellent conductive properties. This ensures that the audio quality is maintained from the source to the ears without any significant loss. The headphones sound particularly impressive with genres that benefit from a wide soundstage and detailed reproduction, such as classical, jazz, and acoustic music.

While the SR225e excels in clarity and detail, providing an immersive and lifelike sound, it may not be the best choice for genres that demand heavy bass, such as electronic music or hip-hop. The bass response is present and well-articulated but may not satisfy listeners who prefer a more pronounced low-end.

GRADO GW100 v2 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

GRADO GW100 v2 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones -...
  • Open back design offers larger sound stage with improved detail and clarity
  • The lightweight and comfortable design with a padded headband and foam ear...
  • Now featuring Bluetooth 5.0 - Apt-X, AAC and SBC Compatibility. Up to 40...

GRADO GW100 v2 headphones have a larger backdrop than any other brand and increased sound clarity. Grado has also greatly enhanced the sound containment of the headset, with an amazing open-back and on-ear design for a longer range. This wireless headset is lightweight, weighing only 11 ounces, so it will never be difficult to carry and use while traveling or when you have a lot of luggage to enjoy your precise sounds.

The redesigned design features a padded headband for additional comfort, as well as a foamy ear cushion to prevent discomfort while listening for long periods of time during playing instruments. The headset also offers an excellent clamping force on your ears. The same driver structure will go unnoticed by you in this top products. The GRADO GW100 headphones have Bluetooth 5.0 with Apt-x, AAC, and SBC compatibility. A better-quality antenna is included in the new, enhanced v2 variant. Just a matter it vastly improves the headset’s connectivity and extends the Bluetooth range of this earphone. One lithium-ion battery (included in the box) with a 40-hour listening time is required. The 40-hour duration, on the other hand, is promoted as having a 50% volume which is pretty good.

GRADO PS500e Professional Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

Grado PS500e represents a significant achievement in the Grado lineup, offering a sound that is quintessentially Grado with its warm harmonic colors, rich full-bodied vocals, and excellent dynamics. As part of the ‘e series’ of Grado models, the PS500e benefits from advancements in design and engineering, including an improved 8 conductor cable design and a hybrid air chamber that combines metal and wood. This design ensures an undistorted flow of the audio signal, preserving the purity of the music.

These headphones feature an open-back design, which is a staple of Grado’s approach to achieving a natural and expansive soundstage. The open-back nature allows for a sense of airiness and space around the music, which closed-back headphones often cannot replicate. However, this design also means that they are not ideal for noisy environments as they do not isolate the listener from external sounds. The PS500e is equipped with a newly redesigned 44mm speaker that contributes to its detailed and dynamic sound. The use of copper wire in the headphones’ cable is a deliberate choice, given copper’s excellent conductive properties, which help maintain the integrity and quality of the audio signal from the source to the listener’s ears.

When it comes to comfort, the PS500e is an on-ear model, which means the headphones sit on the ears rather than around them. This design can be a matter of personal preference, with some users finding on-ear models less comfortable over long periods. However, the PS500e is noted for its lightweight and compact form factor, which may offset some of the potential discomfort associated with on-ear designs.

The headphones sound particularly impressive with a variety of music genres, delivering audio with clarity and precision. While they may not have the deep, resonant bass that some listeners prefer, the PS500e offers a balanced and intentional sound that is both pleasing and accurate, making them a solid choice for professional monitoring and for audiophiles who value fidelity and detail in their music listening experience.

Grado Reference Series RS1e Headphones

Grado Reference Series RS1e Headphones
  • Tranducer type - Dynamic / Operating principle - Open Air / Frequency...

The earpieces on the RS1e Reference Series Headphones have undergone an elaborate curing process that has enhanced the tonal quality for unrivaled sound quality. For clear listening, an open-back design delivers a highly expansive audio with a lot of purity.

These entry level headphones not only look elegant on the outside, but they also provide deep, complex sounds. The subsequent sound experience is controlled, yet with comprehensive dynamics, thanks to the 8-conductor wire and 50mm transducer. This also permits even the tiniest aspects in any piece of music to be revealed, resulting in a new listening experience.

These are extremely attractive headphones that stand out from the crowd. The headband is constructed of silky genuine leather, and the foam earpads are so comfort level that you may listen for hours. The earcups’ modest glimpse of lovely brown mahogany adds so much sophistication. Even with their retro aesthetic, they may undoubtedly complement a variety of styles.

GRADO GS1000e Statement Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones

Grado Labs’ 14-ounce brown-colored headset is perfect for listening to all forms of media with high sound clarity. It includes prominent ear chambers that suit your earlobes nicely for a private listening experience. Air flows with the music you’re listening to with this design, imitating enhanced clarity and range.

The mahogany tone is hand-matched for maximum aesthetic appeal. Warm harmonic colors are also present in your Grado GS1000e headphones. You have the perfect headset when you combine bodied vocals, superb dynamics, and a seamless top end. It includes 50mm dynamic transducers and a new 1-conductor wire for professional sound quality in your ears. Furthermore, the hand-crafted wood on the earpieces and headband, as well as the ergonomic cable design and driver, ensure tight control and stability on higher and lower frequencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Grado Headphones Worth the Investment?

Absolutely. Grado headphones are recognized for their superior sound quality, unique design, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every model, from the entry-level to the high-end, offers a distinct, immersive audio experience. While they might come with a higher price tag compared to some other brands, the investment in Grado headphones is an investment in high-quality audio.

What Is the Sound Signature of Grado Headphones?

Grado headphones are known for their vibrant and lively sound signature, with a focus on the midrange frequencies. The bass is precise and impactful, while the treble frequencies sparkle without sounding harsh. This results in a balanced and detailed sound that allows for an immersive listening experience.

How Do Grado Headphones Compare to Other Brands?

Grado stands out in the audio industry due to its commitment to sound quality and handcrafted design. Their headphones are characterized by a vibrant, detailed, and balanced sound signature that many audiophiles appreciate. While other brands may offer features such as noise cancellation or wireless technology, Grado focuses on delivering the purest sound experience possible.

Are Grado Headphones Comfortable for Long Listening Sessions?

Yes, Grado headphones are designed for comfort during long listening sessions. Their open-back design allows for better air circulation, reducing ear fatigue. However, comfort can be subjective and depends on individual preferences. It’s recommended to try them on if possible before purchasing.

Where Are Grado Headphones Made?

Grado headphones are handcrafted in the USA, specifically in Brooklyn, New York. This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures a high level of quality control and contributes to the robust build of their headphones.

Do Grado Headphones Have Wireless Options?

Grado primarily specializes in wired headphones, but they do offer a wireless model, the GW100. These headphones maintain the Grado signature sound quality while providing the convenience of wireless listening.

Can I Use Grado Headphones for Professional Music Production?

While Grado headphones are not specifically marketed towards professional music production, their high-quality sound reproduction makes them a viable choice for professionals. Their detailed and balanced sound signature can provide accurate monitoring for music production tasks. However, it’s essential to consider the open-back design, which may not be suitable for all studio environments.