RANKING

Rank 51 out of 52 Summarized in this category Rankings based on: • Pros-to-cons ratio • Number of reviews • Category average

Grado

Prestige Series

Name: Prestige Series
Brand: Grado

around $500

All prices are estimates and may vary from actual prices.

261 Pros

60%
23 reviews (3h 33m)

174 Cons

Step into the world of high-fidelity audio with the Grado Prestige Series, handcrafted in Brooklyn, USA. Celebrated for a sound that is famously detailed, lively, and immersive, these headphones are built for those who want to truly connect with their music. The open-back design creates an extraordinarily wide and airy soundstage, placing you right...

Summary of pros and cons from human reviewers, put together by AI

72%

137 vs 54

Sound Quality

31%

17 vs 37

Comfort

61%

33 vs 21

Build Quality

84%

32 vs 6

Value for Money

66%

29 vs 15

Design

Reviewer verdict

Across 23 YouTube reviews, the Grado Prestige Series earns a Summa score of 3.4/5, ranking #51 among Wired Earbuds. Reviewers most often praise its sound quality, build quality, value for money, while the most common criticisms concern sound quality, comfort.

The Prestige Series wired earbuds (Prestige Series) are widely praised for their detailed, lively sound signature, with many reviewers (129 mentions) highlighting strong midrange clarity, vivid top-end detail, and good instrument separation that make vocals, guitars, and acoustic instrument timbres very engaging. Reviewers frequently note they are easy to drive and efficient with portable sources, and that the open design and new driver iterations deliver a spacious soundstage and excellent imaging for the price. Multiple reviewers also call them a great value and recommend them as an affordable entry to the Grado sound or for modding, and the build and retro design receive repeated positive notes for craftsmanship and a lightweight feel. Comfort, connectivity, and practical extras like long, durable cables are commonly mentioned as helpful complements to the sound-focused strengths.

Criticisms concentrate on a forward or peaky upper-mid/treble that can sound shouty or sibilant on some material and cause listening fatigue (46 mentions), and on comfort and ergonomics: many reviewers report strong clamp force, on-ear pad discomfort, heat, and non-removable heavy cables limiting long sessions (33 mentions). Build and durability issues are also raised repeatedly, with plastic parts, non-removable thick cables, and some squeaks or fragility noted (21 mentions), while the open-back design causes significant sound leakage and poor isolation for public or noisy environments (16 mentions). A smaller set of reviewers additionally report recessed mid-bass/sub-bass and a less-than-ideal soundstage or imaging for certain critical tasks.

Analysis based on 23 YouTube reviews (3h 33m of video) with 261 pros and 174 cons extracted.

Pros (261)

Sound Quality (137)

Good imaging and precise placement on the soundstage ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 9:40
When used with a DAC and amplifier, the sound quality is amazing, allowing the listener to hear notes and nuances never heard before. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 3:43
The headphones allow you to get lost in the music and hear what producers and engineers intended, not just compressed formats. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 5:29
Grado headphones improve in performance with use and break in naturally with normal use. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 0:02
They are state-of-the-art with extremely low distortion for a pleasurable experience. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 0:15
Sound quality is very good for open-back headphones, with natural sound and good separation and imaging. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 2:47
They have a natural and airy sound signature, making music enjoyable and immersive. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 6:49
They do not require an amplifier and perform well on portable players and onboard sound. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 9:00
Tight, punchy bass, tons of high end detail, and a big sound stage. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 1:01
Open back design gives a big, wide feel to the audio. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 1:04
Still sound gorgeous with airy and spacious well recorded music. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:08
Human voice sounds incredible and vocals are very natural. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:12
Lively, detailed highs like you're in the room with the band. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:21
Punchy, tight, controlled bass with lots of life in the music. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:23
Sound stage is nice and wide, fantastic sounding. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 5:10
Sound revealing and detailed, like you're in the room. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:55
New E series has upgraded components and optimized for outstanding dynamic fidelity. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:00
New driver geometry (redesigned transducer) for improved sound. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:38
Outputs four microvolts with a frequency response of 10 to 55,000 Hertz, which is excellent. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 2:01
Channel separation averages 25 decibels at 10 to 30,000 Hertz, indicating good stereo separation. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 2:11
Uses a diamond elliptical stylus and tracks at 1.5 grams, which is good for sound quality and record preservation. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 2:18
Sound is described as warm with amazing channel separation, highly recommended for audio quality. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 6:19
The bass opened up after some use, providing some thickness around 80 to 100 hertz. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 3:28
Female vocals are great with lots of detail. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:06
The standout feature is the top end with tons of detail and space. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:14
The headphones are very open and sit on your ear, providing a wide soundstage. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:21
Soundstage is extraordinarily wide and sound is very detailed. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 5:29
They sound slightly V-shaped but voices remain clear and awesome. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 5:40
The sound is awesome, compelling, alive, and fun. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 8:28
They are pretty efficient and don't need a ton of power. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 10:45
The open ear design gives a live feel to the audio, making it sound like the instruments are in the room with you. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 2:32
The soundstage opens between mids, highs, and lows, expanding the sound itself. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 2:45
The SR80E model has punchier bass compared to its predecessor while maintaining immaculate mids and highs, which Grado headphones are known for. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 2:55
The headphones effortlessly hit every single mark in mids, trebles, and bass. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 4:50
Sound quality is balanced with clear, unrestrained mid-range and crisp, detailed highs without harshness. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 2:26
The bass is present but not overemphasized, aiming for a balanced sound rather than bass-heavy. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 2:28
The sound stage is excellent, especially for entry-level open back headphones. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 2:57
Overall, they are great for both critical listening and casual music enjoyment. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 3:07
Sound quality is truthful and reveals the true nature of the music in a soulful and believable way. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 4:47
Sound staging is excellent, creating an expansive and 3D sound field that surrounds the listener. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 5:51
The newer X-series driver is smoother and better balanced than previous drivers, making it more pleasant to listen to. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 7:46
Versatile with different music genres, including electronic music, providing a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 8:56
Overall preferred sound over cheaper alternatives like Monoprice Retros due to tone, rhythm, balance, and sound staging. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 10:33
You can use it for gaming, editing video, or audio ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 0:41
These headphones bring on the clarity and sound super clear ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 0:53
They give you some incredible sound ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 2:12
You get fantastic sound and clarity out of these headphones ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 4:39
They are perfect headphones for listening to ASMR or 3D sound videos ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 5:16
Soundwise, they sound amazing and are a lot more warm and chilled out compared to past Grado models. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 5:22
They have a bassy tuning with a bump in the mid-bass that adds warmth and punch to recordings. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 5:37
Vocals feel super close and intimate with a forward mid-range and lead instruments. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 6:16
Symbols and S and T sounds are subdued, resulting in no sibilance. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 6:43
The headphone has a mid-range focus with added warmth in the bass, making it very pleasant to listen to. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 6:52
Sound stage is quite good, wide, and conveys music as coming from a few inches away from the ear. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 7:22
Information and detail retrieval is good. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 7:34
With mods like alternate pads and EQ, listening experience becomes really enjoyable. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 10:27
Fourth generation Grado 44 mm drivers delivering fantastic sound ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 0:56
Open back design creates a wide spacious soundstage making you feel like you're in the recording studio ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:03
Impressive detail retrieval allowing subtle nuances in music to be heard ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:09
Energetic and engaging sound signature with punchy bass that doesn't overpower mids or highs ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:20
Clear and detailed mids making vocals and instruments sound natural and lifelike ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:31
Crisp and sparkly highs adding airiness to the overall sound ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:36
Particularly well suited for rock, jazz, and classical music but handles other genres well ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:43
Overall fantastic open back headphones offering exceptional sound quality, comfortable fit, and durable build ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 3:31
The SR80X use Grado's new fourth generation driver that's lighter and more dynamic. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 0:13
They have a wide range of applications, including some unexpected ones. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 0:19
The headphones provide a lot of detail in the mid-frequencies due to a boost in the 2K to 10K range. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 0:54
Gradual boost across the entire 2 to 10k frequency range without sharp spikes, preserving mid-frequency perception. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 1:18
Drivers handle bass, mid, and treble simultaneously without suffering. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 2:43
The sound profile is good for picking out details in mixes, useful for studio applications. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 3:07
Reasonable representation of vocals with a slightly forward sound in the 2 to 10k range. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 4:43
Good clarity and accurate reproduction of speaker's voice for voice-over and podcast applications. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 5:28
Good for post-production editing in DAW or video programs. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 5:48
Provide good clarity for content consumption without being fatiguing over long periods. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 6:01
Good clarity in gaming audio with strong explosions and clear footsteps. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 6:57
Good sound stage presentation, known as the 'Grado sound'. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 7:29
Dynamic response is very good due to the new fourth generation drivers. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 9:57
Sound signature is similar to many highly regarded studio headphones, suitable for mixing in many genres. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 10:20
Impedance of 32 ohms means easy to drive with almost any source ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 3:04
Clarity and detail are very good, mids are flat and vocals clear ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 3:12
Bass has good definition, not muddy, enough to keep interest ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 4:29
Stereo separation is good for the price ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 5:02
The 38 ohm impedance and 99.8 dB sensitivity make them easy to power from phones or laptops ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 3:52
Bass is dynamic, lively, nicely textured, detailed, airy, and accurately placed with good impact and presence ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 5:03
Mid-range is fairly detailed with nicely separated instruments and vocals, sounding lively and realistic ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 5:53
Treble is clear, detailed, sparkly, and adds liveliness especially for jazz, classical, and acoustic music ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 6:20
Soundstage is open, airy, and imaging is accurate without being claustrophobic ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 7:11
Timbre is fairly accurate, dynamic, and lively ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 7:24
Sound detail and resolution are comparable to other headphones in the $200-$300 price range ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 7:39
Excellent sound quality rated 9 out of 10, considered one of the best headphones experienced ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 2:58
Open-back design provides excellent soundstage and stereo separation, allowing clear placement of instruments ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 4:40
Good bass response without smearing, crystal clear vocals, and good high-end for guitar solos and drums ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 5:37
Colors sound in a pleasant way enhancing listening enjoyment ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 6:11
Burn-in period of about one hour daily for a week improves sound quality ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 6:39
Both the SR-60x and SR-80x have dynamic drivers with the same sensitivity, impedance, and frequency response, and their drivers are matched within the same dB. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 0:23
The SR-80x has a bit more bass and a warmer tuning which allows for more depth and layering, making congested parts of songs sound more natural. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 10:23
The SR-80x handles dirty guitar and high energy music better due to its warmer tuning and less congestion. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 11:36
The SR-80x has a deeper stage and more layering, providing a relatively pleasant listening experience compared to the SR-60x. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 12:04
Vocals on the SR-80x tend to be more enjoyable due to the warmer tuning and better handling of sibilance. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 10:57
The SR-80x can produce a sparkly and syrupy quality in female vocals at times, providing a special listening experience. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 12:48
The highs are not harsh or sibilant, making them suitable for longer listening sessions even at louder volumes. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 8:09
The headphones have a very Grado-like rocky sound signature, which some may appreciate. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 10:00
Open-back style creates a very open feeling and good sound stage for classical or acoustic music. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 2:37
Very accurate sound reproduction, replicating the track well. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 3:54
Specific tracks like 'Battle of the Beacons' by Foo Fighters and 'Against the Grain' by Acoustic Alchemy sound incredible on these headphones. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 4:26
Can be driven easily by devices like iPhones or iPods without issue. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 6:00
Overall, provides an incredible listening experience for rock and jazz in the right environment. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 6:25
Unique moving iron principle enhances responsiveness and reduces moving mass for accurate musical playback. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 1:54
Patented flux bridge system positions coils closer for increased clarity and warm, fullbodied, emotionally resonant sound especially in mid-range. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 3:12
Optimized transmission line (OTL) cantilever with telescoping design controls vibration transmission, reduces unwanted resonances, maintains signal clarity and speed. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 3:45
Ultra high purity copper coils for accurate channel balance and stereo imaging. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 5:49
Twin magnet system and patented flux bridge provide low moving mass and balanced frequency response. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 6:01
Transmits music's dynamics, harmonics, and timing intact without added noise or distortion. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 6:11
Output of 4 mV suitable for most moving magnet phonostages; diamond elliptical stylus; recommended tracking force 1.6 to 1.9 g. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 6:36
Musically involving and detailed enough to satisfy picky audio files. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 6:24
Delivers sonic warmth, syrupy and smooth guitar tones with tube-driven grit, velvety texture, mellow basslines, and soulful phrasing. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 7:56
Rich tonal palette with natural warmth and textured guitar work; intimate soundstage revealing nuances of vintage gear and tape saturation. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 8:39
Pleasantly surprising depth of soundstage and lovely harmonics extracted from albums. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 11:40
Warm, lush, and fullbodied presentation that wraps music in a soft glow prioritizing emotional engagement over detail. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 12:23
Grado headphones have charm and sweetness in how they produce voices and instruments, with a tonality style that makes you almost taste the music. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 0:48
Great for people who enjoy instruments and voices and want a beautiful, evolved sound rather than focusing on black level or boosted bass. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 2:01
Grado headphones satisfy most people who want a more relaxed and beautiful sound. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 2:25
They have a tasteful, stylish sound with an American original sound signature. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 12:39
Once paired with a decent tube amplifier, the sound quality improves significantly. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 7:40
Open back headphones have a much bigger sound stage, allowing you to hear instruments around you clearly. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 2:37
They perform really well with vocals, jazz, orchestral music, and natural sounds, producing super lifelike and rich sound. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 2:46
Most unique sounding headphones with a frequency response that reveals details normally hidden ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 3:24
Able to reveal details and music that were previously unnoticed ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 4:32
Good soundstage and imaging, though not the widest or most accurate ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 5:03
Easy to drive with 32 ohms impedance and 99 dB/mW sensitivity, no amp required ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 5:16
Sound great and highly recommended for those wanting the Grado sound or interested in modding ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 5:50
GR AS $95 performing superbly alongside the Golding Electra in group B, both superb performers providing great vinyl analog music enjoyment with drive, dynamics, balanced tonality, and good detail and harmonics ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 0:28
GR Rate at $170 further refines images and harmonics with good mature performance ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 0:48
Typical of the GR cards, the Gold shows brilliance-based performance with great transient delivery, impactful sound, great extension, and great control ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 2:46
Astounding dynamics, even better than the already punchy Green ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 3:30
Guitars are pretty impressive with the GR Gold reproducing the transient sting of the string and differentiating pluck from string resonance ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 8:33
Detailed harmonics of the guitar's body resonance are well resolved even in busy mixes with good instrument separation ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 9:00

Build Quality (33)

Made in America, specifically Brooklyn, ensuring quality craftsmanship. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 0:40
The design is brilliant despite using cheap plastic, with a metal band and adjustable rods. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 1:14
The cable is very thick, high quality, and durable. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 4:01
They are well engineered and recommended for those who love open-back headphones. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 10:48
Built really well with good wiring and thick cable. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 3:02
Use of proprietary space black polycarbonate to absorb excess energy for clearer tone. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:18
Housing stiffened to isolate vibrations from the speaker. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:24
Rhodium connectors to prevent corrosion and new glue for strength and less mass. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:31
Still proudly made in Brooklyn with old school design. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 2:58
The metal parts feel pretty good and have a rubber stopper to prevent injury. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 2:16
The headphones are made from durable and flexible metal called rhodium, giving them a retro and archaic look that appeals to vinyl collectors. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 1:47
The build feels fairly tough and durable for serious listening at home. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:32
The cable is fairly long and thick, which improves sound quality and durability. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:54
The Grado SR-60x has pretty good build quality with a somewhat premium feel despite some cheap aspects. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 1:25
The housing for the driver is made of metal and feels pretty good. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 1:28
The headband is made of a leather material that feels really nice to hold. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 1:35
Great platform for modding due to accessible driver housing. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 9:34
Upgraded padded synthetic vegan-friendly headband that feels surprisingly comfortable and more robust than older models ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 0:33
Upgraded 8 conductor super annealed copper braided cable that eliminates twisting and kinking ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 1:50
Lightweight and fairly durable build quality, suitable for long listening sessions. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 8:04
Cable has good strain relief and durability with a braided design and included quarter inch adapter. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 8:57
Cable is nice and thick, doesn't transmit sound when bumped, plug is robust ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:23
Grado is a family-run business since the 1960s and all headphones except wireless are handmade in Brooklyn, New York ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 0:34
Heavy gauge wire and thick cable with about 8-9 feet length, ending in a standard 1/8 inch mini jack ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 2:08
The headphones have a stunning wooden enclosure with a beautifully done finish, showcasing commendable wood design. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 1:22
Hand assembled in Brooklyn by experienced craftsman, renowned for rich, natural, and musical sound. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 1:29
Three-piece OTL cantilever with different materials for speed, damping, and stability. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 5:46
They feel like something built with your hands, showing craftsmanship. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 1:03
Overall, Grado is considered one of the best headphone manufacturers on the market. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 9:59
The 3.5 mm gold-plated headphone jack is pretty durable and comes with a 1/4 inch adapter. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 0:50
The cord is really thick and very durable, practically never tangles. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 0:56
The cord splits through a wide joint connecting to both ears, which is unique. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:03
Hand built in Brooklyn, giving it a unique appeal despite some build quality issues ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 1:14

Value for Money (32)

Recommended for those wanting to try the famous Grado house sound for the first time ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 8:45
They are budget hi-fi headphones rated at 32 ohms, suitable for high-quality music listening. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 1:26
The reviewer rates them a solid 7 out of 10, mainly due to the sound quality and the new listening experience they provide. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 7:21
They come with a one-year limited warranty from verified sellers. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 11:26
Super affordable, and amazing sound for the money I paid. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 0:18
For under $80, you get pretty amazing sound. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 0:58
1/4 inch adapter included in the box. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 7:10
Includes screws, nuts, a tool to remove the stylus, and a detailed spec sheet with performance and installation instructions. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 1:46
They sound like a $200-$300 headphone despite feeling like a $15 headphone in build quality. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 8:10
Grado is a great company with good warranty service and old-school handwritten invoices. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 7:49
Grado is a Brooklyn NY based mom and pop company with a long history since 1953, specializing in high-quality audio products. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 1:01
Grado has a no bull crap policy focused on family and fidelity rather than advertising and star power. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 1:35
The Grado Prestige Series SR60e headphones are available for less than 90 bucks, offering great value. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 0:16
The packaging is minimal but clever, with the manual printed inside the box to keep costs low. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 0:35
They are an amazing buy for the price, scoring 9.2 out of 10 in the review. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 3:33
They are definitely worth buying around 100 bucks ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 5:29
Competitively priced considering sound quality and upgrades over previous models ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:58
Exclusive authorized US Amazon seller ensures authenticity and warranty with one-year manufacturer's warranty ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 3:10
Worthy upgrade over previous models and great value for the price ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 3:39
Price point around $99 is very attractive, great value for quality ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 2:31
Good for analytical listeners and those on a budget ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 5:55
Solidly in reviewer's rotation, strong recommendation for $100 ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 6:15
Entry-level audiophile headset at about $100, offering great value for money ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 0:05
Comes with a basic box, audio extension cable, and interchangeable earpiece covers ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 0:16
Excellent sound quality for rock, jazz, acoustic, and unplugged vocals under $150. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 3:17
Affordable entry-level moving iron cartridge serving as a gateway into rich analog sound while leaving budget for more records. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 13:47
They have lots of different models and prices, making them practical especially due to their low ohm. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 1:49
These are an amazing pair of headphones for under 100 bucks. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 0:08
They are really good for beginning audio files or people just starting to get into audio and music and headphones. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 0:19
They are durable, feature-packed, and sound awesome for the price. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 3:30
Highly recommended and worth every penny of the $99 price. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 3:47
GR Black coming up tops amongst the group A cartridges as the $70 to $80 price range ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 0:20

Design (29)

The headphones feel light and have a retro styling that is loved by the reviewer. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 0:25
Good things come in small packages; the Grado Prestige Gold 2 cartridge is compact and well-designed. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 0:33
The cartridge has a beautiful gold paneling design, which is visually appealing. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 1:39
They are fun headphones and look cool, reminiscent of WWII sonar station headphones. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 8:55
The open ear design allows you to enjoy music while still being aware of your surroundings, which is useful for activities like crossing the street or skateboarding. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 3:39
The headphones have a unique old school look that some may find appealing. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 0:51
The open back design provides a distinctive aesthetic and excellent sound stage. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:04
These are some fantastic headphones you can wear them in the street or in the house ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 0:36
The cups can swing 360 degrees all the way around ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 0:29
They have an open back retro style look without costing big bucks ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 2:05
They look normal and might be what you're looking for in a normal set of headphones ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 2:23
They have a retro looking style that looks awesome and feels great ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 5:03
They look really cool with a retro non-nonsense style. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 2:21
Classic Grado aesthetic with iconic retro look ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 0:26
Decent adjustability allowing a good fit on various head sizes ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 0:47
Love how they look, amazing retro style especially with hardwood or Chrome outer cups ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 0:57
Very light headphones, headband covered in leather-like material ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:12
Ear cups pivot 360 degrees for perfect fit against ears ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:51
The headphones have a retro design that has been retained for many decades ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 1:32
Lightweight design at around 200 grams ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 3:24
Retro look with open-back grille design ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 1:27
Vinyl headband with thick padding and adjustable sliding cups ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 1:42
360-degree swivel ear cups for flexible positioning ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 1:58
Both headphones are lightweight and have adjustable cups. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 1:27
The headband design allows for 360-degree tilt adjustability, providing good adjustability. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 2:00
The headphones themselves don't feel too heavy, weighing around 250 to 300 grams. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 3:21
The headphones have a classic, retro design that some may find cool and unique. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 0:26
Grado headphones look pretty good, with the RS2i being one of the best models they've made. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 1:26
Open back design with flat foam pads that are removable and replaceable. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:15

Comfort (17)

The light weight is good for the ears as it doesn't put too much weight on the head. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 6:06
Super comfortable to wear even without tilting ear cups. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 1:33
The foam padding is very nice and could be used for mods or custom ear pads. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 2:03
Lightweight headphones that fit well on the head. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 9:33
Clamp force isn't very bad, making them comfortable to wear. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:28
They fit well out of the box and can be adjusted slightly for comfort. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:18
Comfortable to wear and can be listened to for long periods due to sound quality absorbing the listener. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 2:02
Preferred newer design with added padding and S pads for comfort, especially for larger heads. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 2:47
Reduces bass fatigue, allowing longer listening sessions without discomfort. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 9:34
They are super comfortable on your ears ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 0:57
The band adjusts real easily, no problems adjusting while on your head ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 1:24
They are very comfortable headphones for use at home or on the street ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 4:55
Lightweight and fairly comfortable for extended wear. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 10:53
Pads are cushy, making on-ear design not too bad initially ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 2:07
Option to replace doughnut-shaped earpieces with standard padding for comfort and closer driver proximity ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 0:41
The headphones are pretty adjustable and comfortable despite no padding on the leatherette band. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:33
Ear pads are really nice and soft after they get broken in ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 2:39

Connectivity (8)

Can be driven off laptop, iPhone, Android phone, or MP3 player. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 1:12
Can be driven without an amp, works well with various devices. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 4:28
The cord is super long (6 feet), making them comfortable to use at home or in an office while moving around. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 2:09
Easier to drive than similar priced headphones, can be driven by phones and laptops without issue. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 8:18
38 ohm impedance makes headphones easy to drive with a wide range of devices without needing a dedicated amplifier ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:04
38 ohm impedance allows easy driving from phones, tablets, and computers without an amplifier. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 9:45
The cable is very long (about 7 ft), which is great for studio use or audiophile listening. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:38
Includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a 1/4 inch adapter. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:53

Noise Isolation (2)

The headphones leak sound due to their open-back design, which is expected. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 8:44
They don't have much sound leakage for open back headphones ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 1:32

Other (2)

The ear cups oscillate 360°, making it easy to untangle the cable. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 0:52
The ear cups rotate 360° each and are flexible without snapping. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:55

Microphone Quality (1)

Perfect for podcasts as you can hear your voice without loud talking or microphone feedback. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:50

Cons (174)

Sound Quality (54)

GR Gold fails to deliver after more than 100 hours of use and is not recommended for desert island listening ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 1:00
Higher range cartridges may lose out on certain basic things that lower range cartridges get right; higher range carts can sound wrong ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 1:30
GR Gold has a slight depression in the middle of the mid-range registers causing dissatisfaction during listening ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 4:37
High hats and cymbals sound softer and not convincing ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 4:08
Caved in presentation due to mid-range depression is unpleasant to listen to ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 5:05
Lack of tonal vibrancy and closed-in presentation of saxophone and vocals due to mid-range recession and underrepresentation of high frequencies ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 5:39
Vocals are not enjoyable due to mid-range recession and lack of vibrancy ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 6:55
Pianos suffer from lack of mid-range energy but are more tolerated than vocals and brass ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 7:39
GR Gold loses its fit when it comes to mid-range coherency and high frequency travel amplitude and energy compared to more affordable brothers like the Rate, Green, and Black ▶ Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Sh @ 10:10
Initial listening without DAC/amplifier was disappointing; mids and treble were harsh and not enjoyable for pop music. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 1:43
Volume caution: listening at high volumes can cause hearing damage. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 0:24
Bass is not very strong; they are not bass-heavy headphones, which may disappoint bass lovers. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 12:13
Not the headphones you want for huge low end or Jeep beats. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 1:31
Bottom end starts to fall off around 40 Hz, lacking lowest tones. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 1:40
SR60e falls off below 40 Hz, so doesn't reproduce a lot of the lowest instruments. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 4:01
Initially, the headphones sounded shrill with no bass and very bright on top. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 3:15
Bass is not super extended and falls off quickly on some tracks. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 3:45
Requires about 40 hours of break-in to reduce initial distortion and grunginess in sound. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 6:28
Some people claim the newer X-series driver lost the classic Grado sound, though reviewer disagrees. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 8:02
Does not scale well with different amplifiers; sound quality remains mostly unchanged. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 8:24
Underemphasis in low bass frequencies below 80 hertz, typical of open back headphones. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 0:44
Open back design reduces immersion in gaming due to hearing the room around you. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 7:14
Imaging performance is below average compared to other headphones and studio monitors. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 7:43
Not the best choice for mixing genres like EDM or hip-hop due to low frequency response. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 10:38
High mids to low treble can be harsh or shrill on some tracks ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 3:28
Bass rolls off quickly after 100 Hz, not very strong or impactful ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 4:32
Soundstage is closed and not very live or spacious ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 5:18
Sub-bass rolls off significantly, so bass isn't the strongest ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 4:52
Mid-range vocals can be harsh, grainy, and sibilant at times ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 5:43
Treble can be harsh and sibilant especially on older poorly mastered tracks ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 6:46
Colors the sound, so not ideal for professional reference monitoring where flat response is desired ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 5:22
The SR-60x has a spike around 2000 Hz that causes harshness in higher pitched male and female vocals, leading to unpleasant sibilance and graininess. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 3:34
The SR-60x has congested staging with poor separation and layering, making music sound jumbled and crowded. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 4:35
Symbols (cymbals) are splashy and can overpower other instruments, causing an unpleasant listening experience on the SR-60x. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 5:30
Hard snare hits produce a nasty, resounding sound on the SR-60x. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 8:27
The SR-60x has inadequate staging that is not deep or wide, limiting the soundstage experience. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 4:57
Both headphones have issues with sibilance and vocal peaks around 2 kHz, which can be unpleasant for some listeners. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 9:54
The SR-80x still has some sibilance and vocal peaks that can be bothersome, though less than the SR-60x. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 10:45
Overall tonal balance is not preferred by the reviewer; the sound quality does not overcome comfort issues. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 15:01
The sub bass is less prominent compared to closed-back headphones, lacking low-end extension. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 5:51
The mid bass sounds wobbly and lacks precision and conciseness, which is disappointing for flagship headphones. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 6:33
The mids are pushed back, recessed, and warm sounding, not as clear or forward as some competitors. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 7:09
There is a slight roll-off in the highs, making the sound a bit rounded off compared to competitors. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 7:50
The soundstage is disappointing, lacking the expected width and depth for open-back headphones, sounding somewhat semi-open. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 8:23
Instrument separation is not as good as expected for open-back headphones, due to the somewhat closed sound character. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 9:25
Not very bottom heavy; bass is slightly lacking and not very responsive for fast-paced tracks. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 3:37
Sound is very bright with sharp mids and highs, which some may find fatiguing or too in-your-face. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 3:41
Sound stage is good but not fantastic for an open-back headphone, which is disappointing. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 4:14
Soundstage is not very wide, confined within the width of the speakers, described as intimate rather than spacious. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 9:20
Does not reach out and grab attention; more about appreciating tone than chasing detail. ▶ I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists @ 10:53
Grado headphones can be a bit raw and cause mental fatigue due to their sound signature. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 4:11
Sound can be stuck in the middle range, lacking deep bass and rolled off at the top frequencies. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 4:38
Highest models only have 32 ohms impedance, which limits realism, bandwidth, and depth; higher ohm models would be preferable. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 8:26
Peak in the upper mid-range makes the headphones shouty and can cause listening fatigue ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 4:45

Comfort (37)

Comfort issues: after 35 to 45 minutes, the headphones cause too much pressure on the top of the ears and give headaches, limiting long listening sessions. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 6:26
The foam pads are initially stiff and rough, described as burlap-like, though they soften with use. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 8:10
Some say Grados aren't comfortable; may require a break-in period to get used to fit. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 6:46
If you shake your head hard, the headphones can fall off due to low clamp force. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 4:38
Some people might find the headphones too tight initially and need to adjust them carefully. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:18
Can get hot after about 20-30 minutes of use, requiring breaks for ventilation. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 2:34
Unpadded headband on some models (like the SR325x) causes discomfort and pressure on the head. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 3:24
Certain pads (F pads) press the driver against the ear, causing discomfort. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 3:37
A little bit of heat issues, ears get a little bit warm and you have to take them off ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 1:08
Headband is absolutely torture to wear due to no padding, very uncomfortable. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 1:38
Stock pads are super thin with almost nothing separating head from driver, causing discomfort. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 4:50
Comfort is poor; can only wear for about an hour to 90 minutes before discomfort is significant. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 4:43
On-ear design may be less comfortable than over-ear headphones for some users during longer listening sessions ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:42
Ear pads are foam and can get warm, causing sweat issues over time. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 8:45
On-ear design causes ears to get warm and sore after about 45 minutes ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 2:12
Uncomfortable with glasses as they push glasses into face ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 2:18
Not a runaway recommendation for general public due to comfort and soundstage ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 5:41
Hard leather headband can get uncomfortable ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 3:28
Foam ear pads are small and more on-ear style rather than over-ear, uncomfortable for long listening sessions ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 3:34
The cables are very thick, stiff, and weighted, causing discomfort and pulling the headphone cups around. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 1:54
Uncomfortable to wear with glasses due to cable and pad design. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 2:28
The cable design is a major negative: very dense, inflexible, heavy, and causes discomfort, making the headphones hard to wear for extended periods. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 15:33
Pads are not particularly comfortable and pinch glasses wearers' faces. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 16:17
The headband has very little padding, causing discomfort during long listening sessions as it feels like it's digging in. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 2:36
The cable is very heavy (around 200 grams), non-removable, and bulky, which causes annoyance and strain during use. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 3:05
The inner ear cup design causes the top of the ear to be pressed against the driver, leading to discomfort during extended use. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 4:53
The ear cup design and fit cause discomfort and do not feel premium. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 11:26
The headband is not padded, only covered in faux leather with a metal band. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:20
Foam pads are uncomfortable, scratchy, and do not seal well on the ear, causing itchiness after 30-45 minutes. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 4:53
The ear coverage is small, with pads that put pressure directly on the ear, which can feel awkward and weird. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 2:40
Foam pads tend to fall off in bits and pieces, which can be annoying and uncomfortable. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 12:10
The leatherette headphone band isn't padded at all, which might affect comfort for some. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:38
Cable is very thick, heavy, and not removable, contributing significantly to overall weight ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 1:38
Comfort is not the best out of the box; on-ear design with considerable clamp force causes discomfort ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 2:08
Vinyl padding on the headband is not ideal and took 26 years to be padded ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 2:25
Clamp force is strong and causes pain after a while unless the headband is bent to loosen it ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 2:45
Not very comfortable out of the box and requires mods to improve comfort ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 5:50

Build Quality (21)

The cable is absurdly thick and stiff, making it cumbersome and prone to tangling. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 4:18
The ear cups can twist and tangle, requiring effort to untangle and adjust properly. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 4:58
Installation is tricky because the cartridge uses pass-through holes requiring nuts, which is difficult to handle especially with large hands. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 3:09
Installation took a long time (about an hour and a half) due to difficulty with mounting screws and nuts. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 3:18
The U-Turn turntable used had factory settings for a different cartridge (Ortofon 2M Red), causing significant tracking error when using the Grado cartridge without recalibration. ▶ The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! @ 5:03
The cords are permanently affixed to each ear cup, limiting repair options. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 2:10
No built-in remotes or removable cables, which are common in more expensive headphones. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:42
Build quality is sketchy with plastic parts that feel cheap and fragile. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 1:50
The cable is garbage: heavy, chunky, pulls down on the headphone, and is non-removable. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 2:41
Cable material feels nasty plastic despite being braided. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 3:08
Headband adjustment is friction-based without locking, and it loosens over time. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 8:20
Cable is fairly stiff and can kink with repeated rotation. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 9:05
Plastic finish doesn't feel very robust, could not take much punishment ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:10
Finish rated 3/5 due to material quality ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:39
Build quality is a mixed bag; plastic and metal parts feel cheap and not well put together ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 2:10
Permanently attached cable is very long, heavy, thick, and cumbersome, dragging down the headphones ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 2:59
The build quality and design, aside from the wood finish, are not well thought out and feel less premium than expected for flagship headphones. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 5:19
Non-removable cable design is a significant drawback for flagship headphones, limiting practicality and repairability. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 10:58
The 360° oscillating cups can also cause tangling, making it a catch-22. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:03
Build quality is okay but not the best, mostly plastic with some metal parts ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 1:14
Headband and adjustment rods are metal but the headphones are a little squeaky ▶ The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review @ 1:25

Noise Isolation (19)

The headphones leak sound significantly, which can be annoying in public or quiet environments. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 8:46
Not ideal for portable use in public due to sound leakage and bulky cable. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 10:09
Open back design not great for office or noisy environments like flights or commutes. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 6:05
Open back lets in external noise like subway, jet engine drone, or noisy neighbors. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 6:14
The headphones are very open and do not cover your ear, so they let in a lot of ambient and background noise. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 5:18
The open ear design means these headphones are not noise cancelling; you will hear everything around you when walking. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 3:39
Because of the open ear design, people around you can hear your music if you turn it up to drown out external noise. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 4:22
These headphones are not suitable if you want noise cancelling or a completely sound-deprived experience. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 4:10
They do have some sound leak ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 1:32
Open-back design causes noise bleed and no noise isolation, making them unsuitable for public use. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 8:54
Open back design does not isolate sound, not ideal for noisy environments like public transport or busy offices ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:21
Others around you can hear your music due to sound leakage ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:33
Outside noise leaks into listening experience ▶ GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? @ 2:37
Open-back design bleeds sound, not suitable for commute or office ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 3:00
Open-back design causes sound leakage, making them unsuitable for use in public places like buses or airplanes ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 3:32
Sound leaks out through the back, disturbing others in public settings ▶ Grado SR-80 Headphone Review @ 4:14
Open-back design leaks a lot of sound, making them unsuitable for portable use or noisy environments. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 2:04
Open-back design lets in a lot of external sound, which can be distracting. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 2:53
Being open back headphones, they leak sound a lot and can be heard by people next to you. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 3:07

Durability (17)

Durability is questionable; not suitable for carrying around in a bag, more for home use. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 0:28
Do not allow the headphones to play continuously for extended periods to avoid damage. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 0:03
The headband and plastic parts feel stiff and fragile; if broken, the headphones become unusable. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 7:08
Halo that holds earpiece to headband has been known to break. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 6:37
Build quality is underwhelming with cheap, brittle plastic that creaks and shows white marks when bent. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 1:43
The band is very thin, plasticky rubber with minimal metal inside and foam that feels like it will wear out quickly. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 2:26
The 3.5mm jack on the first pair shorted out and required warranty repair. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 2:50
Build quality is not very good compared to similarly priced headphones like the AKG K361, which have better ear pads and are heavier and more durable. ▶ Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love @ 7:16
They are meant more for serious listening at home and not for portable use. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:32
Not suitable for carrying around casually due to build and design limitations. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 1:50
Some build quality aspects feel cheap and insubstantial, with rattly and creaky parts and a wiggle-prone cable. ▶ Grado SR60X Headphone Review @ 1:29
Left ear cup detached from adjustment rod within first month of ownership ▶ Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s @ 2:28
The headband hinge design may wear out over time, leading to looseness and reduced longevity. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 2:08
Headphones are mostly plastic and not very durable, prone to breakage if handled roughly or carried in a backpack. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 5:42
Metal and construction parts can come off easily, with glue and plastic or wood joints that are fragile. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 9:24
The metal rod that connects parts can break and is difficult to repair, sometimes destroying the headphones. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 11:31
You should avoid twisting the ear cups too much to prevent twisting the wires inside. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 2:03

Design (15)

The box and packaging are very simple and light, possibly indicating a lack of premium feel. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 0:09
Styling might mess up hair curls and is only okay, not great. ▶ 4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) @ 6:17
The design lacks tilting ear cups, which might affect fit for some users. ▶ Z Review - Grado SR60i @ 1:37
The retro and archaic design may put some people off. ▶ Grado SR80e Headphone Review @ 1:59
The box and packaging are minimal with no separate manual included. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 0:35
The design might look strange or outdated to those used to sleek modern headphones. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 0:56
The band has no protection, it just rests on your head ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 1:16
Cable design is more suited for DJ headphones, not light headphones meant for sitting and listening. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 3:39
Headphones are a bit small and may not fit well for people with large heads. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 8:29
Don't clamp very hard, fit rated 2.5/5 ▶ Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review @ 1:43
The retro design is not desirable for many people and considered ugly by some. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 0:37
Wired to both cups, which some people dislike. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:28
The vintage look may not appeal to everyone; some may prefer a more modern look. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 0:39
The cord design where it splits might be a matter of personal preference and is not explained why it was done. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:05
The headphones don't have notches for adjustment, which may bother people with OCD. ▶ Grado SR80i Review! @ 1:33

Value for Money (6)

Not comparable to high-end offerings, so audiophiles seeking premium sound might want to look elsewhere. ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review @ 3:27
Build quality and comfort flaws make this $300 headphone less worth it compared to better options like the Sennheiser HD600 line. ▶ Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) @ 9:10
The reviewer finds the SR-60x barely serviceable and the SR-80x only fine, leading to a hard pass on both models. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 17:02
Overall sound quality does not compete well with other flagship headphones at the same price point. ▶ Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? @ 10:00
Many models are expensive, with the RS2 and above costing around 700-800 dollars, making lower models feel irrelevant or raw in sound. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 5:26
They require decent, often expensive tube amplification to sound their best, which adds to the cost. ▶ Grado: the sound @ 7:17

Connectivity (3)

Right angle plug would be nice given frequent use with portable gear. ▶ Grado SR60e Headphone Review @ 7:06
The cable length is limited, with the splitter ending near the nape of the neck or collarbone, making it uncomfortable to wear. ▶ A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X @ 2:16
The long cable can be a con for those wanting a shorter cable. ▶ Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones @ 1:43

Microphone Quality (2)

They don't have a mic so you can't have conversations while gaming ▶ Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review @ 4:48
Open back design causes mic bleed, making them not ideal for recording with condenser microphones. ▶ Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests @ 5:39

Review sources

Grado SR60e Headphone Review 20 pros, 8 cons
Grado SR80x Headphones - Detailed Review with Audio Tests by askdrtk — 18 pros, 9 cons
Z Review - Grado SR60i by Z Reviews — 14 pros, 10 cons
Grado SR80e - The Headphone I Hate to Love by cheapaudioman — 14 pros, 9 cons
Is this Grado's BEST headphone? (Grado SR325-x Review) 13 pros, 10 cons
Best $100 Headphones!?!? Grado SR80e Review 12 pros, 10 cons
Grado SR80i Open Back Audiophile Headphones by Snazzy Labs — 10 pros, 12 cons
A Very Biased Review - Grado SR60X and SR80X 7 pros, 14 cons
GRADO SR125x: Best Open-Back Headphones Under $200? by Innovator's Choice — 16 pros, 4 cons
Grado SR225 Review - Taste of the 1960s 11 pros, 8 cons
Grado Prestige Series SR60e Review by SoundGuys — 12 pros, 7 cons
Grado Prestige Series SR80e Headphones Last Word review by Dr Earbuds — 15 pros, 4 cons
Grado GS3000e review: Overpriced flagship headphones? by TotallydubbedHD — 5 pros, 14 cons
Grado: the sound 9 pros, 9 cons
Grado SR80i Review! by Marques Brownlee — 12 pros, 6 cons
Grado Gold - Group D cartridges' ($250- $300) REVIEWS and Shoot-Out Series 8 pros, 9 cons
I Can't Believe This $125 Phono Cartridge Exists 15 pros, 2 cons
Grado SR60X Headphone Review 9 pros, 6 cons
Grado SR-80 Headphone Review 12 pros, 3 cons
The Best/Worst Cans $80 Can Buy | Grado SR60e Review 7 pros, 8 cons
Grado SR80e Headphone Review by Audio46 Headphones - Headphone Superstore — 9 pros, 4 cons
4K Grado Labs:SR60E Review (AMAZING) 6 pros, 5 cons
The GRADO Prestige Gold2 Phono Cartridge! Record-ology! by Record-ology — 7 pros, 3 cons

Frequently asked questions

Is the Grado Prestige Series worth buying?

Based on 23 independent YouTube reviews, the Grado Prestige Series scores 3.4/5 with 261 positive and 174 negative points mentioned by reviewers, placing it #51 in the Wired Earbuds category.

What do reviewers like most about the Grado Prestige Series?

The most praised aspects are sound quality, build quality, value for money — Sound Quality (137 mentions), Build Quality (33 mentions), Value for Money (32 mentions).

What are the most common complaints about the Grado Prestige Series?

Reviewers most frequently criticize sound quality, comfort — Sound Quality (54 mentions), Comfort (37 mentions).

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