They say that Grado headphones are the gateway drug to the audiophile world and I feel it’s true to some extent. But the weird thing worth-mentioning is that this brand of headphone isn’t really for everyone. As some people say, you’ll either love it or hate it. Where do I fall into? We will find out in this impression article.
My first Grado headphone is the SR60 (here’s a link to the newer SR60e) which is their entry level model. I recall that I like the headphone’s sound even though I find the upper mids too forward at times. Since that time, I moved to closed headphones and in-ear monitors since they were more needed for my endless hours of commuting while going to work. Nevertheless, if you’re looking to have a taste of what a Grado headphone sounds like, don’t hesitate getting their entry level models, SR60i and SR80i as they just resemble a similar signature.
Fast forward to today, I have acquired the SR225i model which is just below the top line for the Prestige series. As I haven’t heard the Grado sound for quite a while now and that I haven’t listened that much to open headphones, I find myself warming up to the sound and overall experience of it. But I can definitely tell that this is a very interesting headphone for me to try and get used to.
As mentioned earlier, this is just an impression article. There will be a full review soon. So far, the Grado experience is enjoyable. I’m hearing its bright intimate sound signature that people compare to watching a live rock concert while sitting in front row. There are some flaws in the sound just like any other headphones but so far so good. And the old school design is something to marvel about too.
That is it for now. Have you ever had a Grado headphone before? How’s your Grado experience?