For more than 70 years, Grado has maintained an artisanal approach to hi-fi headphones, with manufacturing based in Brooklyn and an instantly recognizable sound signature. Launched with the HP100SE, the Signature line marks a new milestone in the American manufacturer’s evolution. The range now comprises four premium models: the HP100SE, S950, S750 and S550. They all share the same philosophy: to further develop Grado headphones whilst preserving the qualities that have built their reputation.
A new showcase of Grado’s expertise
The Signature range marks a new chapter in Grado’s history. It reflects the American manufacturer’s commitment to improving its hi-fi headphones through advances in design, ergonomics and acoustic performance. Each pair of headphones is the result of extensive development, listening tests and optimization, designed to strike a balance between precision, comfort and musicality.
This approach builds on the expertise that has defined Grado’s reputation for over 70 years. True to the brand’s iconic sound, the Signature headphones also feature several innovations, such as detachable cables, a completely redesigned headband, and new drivers. This approach allows Grado to modernize its lineup while preserving the qualities that have shaped its identity.
Four wired headphones, one philosophy
With the Signature series, Grado is updating its vision of hi-fi headphones while remaining true to the values that have forged its reputation. Hand-assembled in its Brooklyn workshops, the four models share the same high manufacturing standards and benefit from the brand’s latest advancements in transducers, ergonomics, and connectors. While each model has its own distinct character, they all share a common approach in which material selection and design quality take center stage.
Grado Signature HP100SE: the flagship model
As the first model in the Signature series, the HP100SE pays homage to the legendary HP1 designed by Joseph Grado in the early 1990s. It features a new 52 mm dynamic transducer with a composite paper cone, a copper-plated aluminum voice coil, and a magnetic circuit optimized to reduce distortion. With a frequency response of 3.5 Hz to 51.5 kHz, an impedance of 38 ohms, and a sensitivity of 117 dB, it delivers an exceptionally precise, dynamic, and detailed sound reproduction.
The HP100SE also features a completely redesigned build. Its machined aluminum ear cups ensure high rigidity while minimizing unwanted resonance. It also introduces the new Signature headband, which is more comfortable thanks to more generous padding, as well as detachable cables connected via four-pin mini-XLR connectors. This model is now Grado’s technological flagship.
Grado Signature S950: the warmth of walnut
The Signature S950 has the same technical specs as the HP100 SE, but features solid Brazilian walnut ear cups. Selected for its mechanical and acoustic properties, this wood gives each pair of headphones a unique grain pattern and contributes to their sonic character. The hezdphones retain the 52 mm dynamic driver, with an impressive frequency response ranging from 3.5 Hz to 51.5 kHz, an impedance of 38 ohms, and a sensitivity of 117 dB, to deliver the same level of precision as the reference model.
Weighing just 395 g, the S950 features a refined design that combines a stainless steel headband, aluminum alloy adjustable height rods, and a padded Signature headband. It comes with two sets of ear pads (G and F Cushions) and a detachable Signature Gold cable, showcasing Grado’s expertise in woodworking—a material that has been emblematic of the brand for many years.
Grado Signature S750: aluminum and S2 transducer
The Signature S750 introduces the new 50 mm S2 dynamic transducer, developed by Grado for this new generation of headphones. Its composite paper diaphragm, combined with an optimized magnetic circuit and a lightweight voice coil, delivers a fast and detailed sound reproduction. With a frequency response of 4 Hz to 48 kHz, an impedance of 38 ohms, and a sensitivity of 115 dB, it offers a balance of precision and dynamism and is easy to drive.
Its machined aluminum ear cups combine rigidity and lightness, weighing in at 480 g, while the adjustable headband enhances comfort. Like the other models in the line, the S750 features a detachable cable with mini-XLR connectors, making it easy to replace the cable or use optional ones.
Grado Signature S550: the most affordable model in the Signature range
As the latest addition to the Signature series, the S550 features the 50 mm S2 dynamic driver developed for this new generation of headphones. With a frequency response of 6 Hz to 44 kHz, an impedance of 38 ohms, and a sensitivity of 112 dB, it retains the technical fundamentals of the line in a more affordable version.
Weighing just 335 g, the S550 is also the lightest model in the Signature family. It comes with a detachable Signature Silver cable, B Cushion ear pads, and a 6.35 mm jack adapter. It serves as a gateway to the Signature universe, incorporating the key innovations introduced by this new generation of Grado headphones.
Craftsmanship designed to enhance the listening experience
Beyond the unique features of each model, the Signature line exemplifies Grado’s commitment to quality craftsmanship. The various headphones combine carefully selected materials with components designed to last. The new headbands offer enhanced comfort thanks to more generous padding, while the stainless steel rods and reinforced hinges improve the overall durability of the headphones. Finally, the detachable cables represent another significant advancement. Connected to the ear cups via four-pin mini-XLR connectors, they make it easy to replace the cable or adapt it to different listening setups.
| Headphones | Transducer | Frequency response | Sensitivity | Weight | Price |
| HP100 SE | 52 mm | 3.5–51.5 kHz | 117 dB | 520 g | €2,990 |
| S950 | 52 mm | 3.5–51.5 kHz | 117 dB | 395 g | €2,569 |
| S750 | 50 mm S2 | 4–48 kHz | 115 dB | 480g | €1,995 |
| S550 | 50 mm S2 | 6–44 kHz | 112 dB | 335 g | €1,290 |
More than just a new line of headphones, the Signature series illustrates Grado’s commitment to evolving its product lineup without compromising the qualities that have defined its identity for over 70 years. This approach reaffirms the American manufacturer’s status as a leader in high-end hi-fi headphones.
