Today I listened to a couple of headphones, the B&W px8, the Denon D5200, AirPod Max, sennheiser 660s2 and the last one Grado SR325X…. The grado was one world apart. The rest is history…. Beautiful
I also have the 325e’s, love them! All I can say about Grados is - good source material sounds awesome, but if you listen to a bad, overly compressed recording, you will know it!
Listening to this video now on my Grado SR125s. Bought them in 2005, and listen to them every day at work. Also own a Uturn turntable lol. Nice to see things made in the US!
Few internet sources claims that new SR325x have exactly the same drivers as used for Hemp, but sound tad less darker due to aluminium cups. Can you please comment on how do you compare 325x to Hemps? Are they really that similar, and if not then what's the difference?
I have the PS500e which I love but I swapped the pads for the PS1000e pads. Not only did it improve the sound (for me) but they are also much more comfortable. As you get older you hear less high frequencies but Grado headphones seem to counteract this, which out of all the headphones I have auditioned, make them the best headphone for me.
Love Grado. I have about 5 pairs. But I hate the foam pads. I always replace them with sennheiser pads. However, all 5 pairs now in a container box after buying the Meze Empyrean.
I have two grado’s: the 60e, the 125e. A few months ago I wanted to upgrade and was thinking about the Grado 325e, but in a review of different headphones, in that review there was the Grado 325e and the Hifiman Sundara. Your choice was that Hifiman Sundara sounded much beter than the Grado. So I went to my dealer and took listening of the Hifiman for about a hour and I ordered one. And I must say that the Hifiman sounds relaxter, very open and detailed with enough bass. When I listen to classical music and blues the sound is refined, when I listen to rock music of the years 70,80 the sound was to surprise also very good with good bass. The Sundara sounds for my taste audiophile. But when I need a boost and play rock I take my Grado for a hour, and when I have my energy back I take my Sundara for rest of time. I love Grado but I also love the Hifiman Sundara which is sold in Belgium for 349 euros Greetings Ludo Belgium
My friend Kevin, an LP fanatic (he produced the documentary "Long Playing Movie") bought a U-Turn about 4 years ago & swapped in an Ortophon 2M Blue. He's still happy with it.
I rocked the 60e until it broke, so I instantly bought the X version when it came out, it's so much nicer overall, I love them! I would love to buy the higher end ones, but the price + import taxes is just prohibitive, at least for me.
Thank you Steve, I wanted to try a pair of Grado headphones and I wasn’t sure about which model to go for I normally pitch in and go for a companies mid to high range but after listening to yet another one of your excellent reviews this time Grado sr325x I decided to give them a try before paying a lot more for the higher priced models. “Wow” they are absolutely wonderful, I have various wired over ear headphones from Focal, Hifiman, Sennheiser to name a few and these leave them in the shade. Regarding the Sennheiser HD650 I find listening to them is like watching television in SD yes there is detail but they lack clarity, the Focals have detail and clarity like watching in HD but the SR325x are like watching in UHD 8K. I am listening to them through my computer (Tidal Maters) linked to a Loxjie D50 dac which has the super AK dac chip at either end I have an ifi audio silencer and a purifier 3 these are then connected by balanced cables to a Topping A90 amplifier they are played on the middle gain setting they absolutely submerse me in a most wonderful detailed sound and staging with superb vocals much clearer then my Ananda’s and Focals. “Yes” they are not the most comfortable to ware but most aren’t for me having a large point in the centre of my head but I solve this with all my head phones apart from the Hd650 which has the centre cut out and are super comfy so I mimic them using hat fillers discretely positioned so not to detract from the appearance also going to try the lager pads just to see how much they alter the sound. Regarding all the negative comments on the build quality I have no issues at all they are on par with my Ananda’s but the Focals are as you no on another level. The cable I understand the comments but would I want to change it for another which may deprive me of this amazing sound absolutely not. Packaging is sparse but they arrived intact and I much prefer putting the expense into the headphones quality. Thank you once again don’t ever change your style of presentation it is so super informative and enjoyable to watch, Phil happy boy👍
indeed my first audition with sr 325 x was instant falling in love, still my fav in that price range, wonder how it sound with those personal modified version
Socketed cables would be very welcome, yes. It might hike up the price a little bit. But they could offer different cables like they do with pads and enhance the "do your own thing" feeling. And Grado users, being Grado users would end up buying at least 3 different cables, maybe more. AND metal gimballs. Another little price hike. They do all the injection molding in house: the plastic pieces and metal pivot. (much more durable than I expected.) Metal parts must be outsourced. For the premium lines, maybe. For the starter ranges it would hike up the cost...and it wouldn't be done in Brooklyn. That's a no no... unless they found a local metalworker, just as they found a carpenter for the bowls. They could offer it as another modular option and lots of people would go for it.
the headphones sound better with the cable soldered directly to the drivers. Try soldering your speaker cable direct on the crossovers......magie happens
Theres no reason to add your own cable, unless youre gonna spend $200 on an aftermarket cable or it breaks. But to replace it with a cheap $70 cable from Amazon would take a big hit sonically
I purchased the 325x again after trying a bunch of headphones. Grado has the best sounding headphones I’ve ever heard period. Nothing else comes close.
Yes, I always felt Grado went the are you tough enough approach, sound too, although it was fantastic with time, I love the velvet caress of my decadent Beyerdynamics, caressing me like Weimar Berlin never ended.
I hear you on the on-ear pads. They are particularly rough on those of us who wear glasses. There are some things you can try though. You can always go with the G cups on any of these models. I have them on my 325e and my wireless GW100. They go over the ear and are more comfortable. There are also aftermarket ear pads that work well. I have a pair of leather pads from Beautiful Audio that are quite expensive, but are little pillows of love for your ears.
Brought the SR80s based on Steve's recommendation years ago. Love them. Utilizing a Denon PRA 1500 as Headphone amp, with Marantz 5001 into a Musical Fidelity X-10D as a buffer. Really open, believable sound.
To my ears, my Grado RS1’s and RS2e’s are more natural sounding, especially on solo piano music than any other headphone I’ve heard, including the Hifiman Arya and 5xx, the Focal Clear, and the AKG K812.
You have great knowledge of music and expert in sound. Your compare of grado 325x to audio technica m50x is perfect. Grado is clearer and sharper. But I still think audio technica msr7 is best headphone for female vocals and music. Give msr7 a try !
Even the 60e puts the m50x to shame. 😁 The 80e is even better, the best value in the line. So I'm assuming the 80x would be great. Maybe it's time to upgrade my 80e. Thanks, Steve!
I have the 325e Grados, which I love. I like the headline phone cushions compared to my 125s. My one complaint has always been the way their cables sit.
When Steve uses words like "transparent" it has little meaning to me. Anyway it's a good question although the Hemp is a collectible of limited production so kind of a different beast. I bought the Hemp so have to console myself even if 325x sounds better.
Steve and my GRADO 325 - A PERFECT MATCH! LADYVA Boogie Woogie piano on TH-cam sounds great and addictive! Steve needs to add a little music once in a while! Music on TH-cam may be compressed, but Yuja Wang, Evgeny Kissin, Martha Argerich and other fantastic musicians -- my GRADO 325 brings a balance, tonal quality and a lifelike musical presence!
Maybe time to sell my sr225e and have a look at those Xs. Would be nice to compare the 225 and the 325. I've heard the E versions of them on separate occasions, and, although I wasn't able to go back and forth on the spot, I've heard the 225s so many times that I kind of got the impression that the sound was pretty darn close to equal between the two and that the 325's extra cost is more about fine materials what with the real stitched-leather headband and metal housings. But I don't know. Would be nice to actually compare the sound.
Grados all sound fantastic in their own way. I fall in love every time I have bought a set…. And appreciate the more I hear this specific pair. However when you upgrade it you will feel and hear the upgrade. Then it settles into its peak again. It’s an addicting and very rewarding experience.
Sounds like I need to get a 325x. I use the ATH-M50xPB for editing sometimes, along with the Sennheiser HD 25 Anniversary edition and the old Sennheiser HD 600. My preference is the HD 25, which sounds great and is comfortable. The new Grados are intriguing.
I just got my SR80e like a month ago so I'm a little annoyed I didn't just wait but I'm still in love with my 80e's and I got them for there msrp or the price of the sr60x's $100
I've been listening to my 325x's for a little bit (+aftermarket pads). I've never heard a Grado, prior. Compared to my 6xx, it sounds like my ears are being assaulted. Sometimes, in a good way. I like them with electronic music. What's really impressive about them is how easy they are to drive. They sound good off an iphone dongle
The grados treble hits hard when your ears get accustomed to another pair. Even when I switch from my grados hemp to my 125e after using the hemp for months its aggressive for a bit ( the hemp do the grado sound in a smoother way(
Love your vids and hate to be the one to correct you but I just looked at the grado UK website and it lists the impedance for the Prestige X series as 32 ohms?... Or maybe they just haven't updated it properly here... I literally just received a set of grado hemps yesterday (which is 38 ohms). Would love to hear how you think the new X series compares, especially if they are using the same driver... (I might feel a little disappointed for paying the extra premium for the same driver/sound... But then again the hemps are kinda pretty)
just a howdy to audiophilily show, got to say is helps a bunch, bringing joy and almost forgotten days of having a room with non xcept a pair of speakers and an amplifier and a bass guitar with rare Fender Bassman 1967 made Amplifier trough a brand new Blaupunkt 16inch driver listening to LPs of all sorts. sweet 2006 . Mr Paul all the best from a nerdy audio mangroo.....
Steve...you never said what Grado changed about their phones except for the cable...been thinking about buying a pair.....did they change their drivers? or?
Hey Steve, I've seen quite a few people on forums complain that the X series are a departure from the signature Grado sound and that Grado has essentially bowed down to the constant complaints from the younger generation about their headphones being too bright. What are your thoughts on this? Has Grado lost the signature sound with the X series and particularly the more revealing 325X? I own a 325e and am stuck between the choice of "upgrading" to a newer generation (if that is indeed an upgrade) and holding on to something that might not be available in the near future.
Just the fact they used the f-cushions like the hemp will automatically give them a bassier sound. For the hemp it was magically good though. I don't know for the new series. I would say to switch back to the previous pads,but in my experience using non stock pads on grado kinda ruin the sound
Yes def do...add to that fact the cable isnt even detachable and its very hard to get inside to mod for the pricepoint they start at....i doubt ill ever own another pair until at MIN they have detachable cables. Have to make use of all these aftermarket ones somehow!! Lol
I have the SR125i and recently tried the GW100 wireless in a shop. Funny how they just released the x series so instead of buying wireless I will just get those. I also tried the Sennheiser Momentum which were pretty good, but sounded bad at loud volumes.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac Do you feel that it is worth paying double the price of RS325x to get wooden cup RS2 e or x ? Have you compared these two models? When I was in the shop I also tried the Sony WH-1000XM4 which were VERY comfortable and nicely built. They sounded good with electronic music as they had a good lows kick. But at almost double the price of GW100 they didn't have the sound resolution that the GW100 have, e.g. being able to hear a long fading voice reverb/echo and layer separation. I came to a conclusion that maybe in reality I don't really need wireless headphones but started thinking about upgrading the wired cups. So what do you think, SR325x or RS2 ?
I’m a huge Grado fan and want to try out the 325x but am reading comments at places about how horrid the comfort is. Looks like your ears are on the larger side. I say this because you stated they were more comfortable than the previous model (with L-pads.) Yeah the family portrait picture that comes with the Grado box… they have larger ears too. I figured out how to make my on ear grados comfortable with the L pads years ago. I have smaller ears so I’m afraid to try the new re-released pads. I am assuming smaller ears just rest their ears directly on the drivers while wearing them. As people are complaining about as well. If not put back in a case to protect them often you may end up having to buy a new pair every year or two but I don’t give a hoot I love their sound so much it’s just the one baby.
I’ve got fairly average ears and they don’t touch the drivers. Comfort wise they’re OK for me, but I can see why some might have issues. The headband is fine. I’m bald and have no issue with it. A bit more padding on the cups would be nice but DMS did mention they soften after a couple of weeks. I’ll probably try one of the other pad types at some point. Have to say I’m not blown away by the sound quality. Feels quite average to me compared to others I own from AKG and B&O. I was expecting something a bit special and don’t feel they deliver in that regard. At the moment I somewhat regret not getting the Sundara.
@@doifeellucky maybe not enough soundstage for you. The Sundara might be better for you with that. Grado is a very specific kind of sound. If you don’t like one at all you won’t like any of the others in their lineup. Thanks for letting me know about your experience with the comfort.
Hi Steve, what do you think about using these without a headphone amp? The reason I ask this is because I seem to recall some years back in a review of an earlier version of 325s, that they could be used without an amp. So, what's your opinion on this? Thanks for your help.
The e gen was all 32 ohms. Can be ran out of anything with an headphone input no problems. The x gen is 38 ohms (I suspect they used the same driver they did for the hemp). And it is still the case. Can be ran out of anything with a headphone plug. Personnally I use a fiio btr5 and it sounds better out of it. But its definetly not necessary
Had the 60s and the 325, Good for the price. But, yeah, cheap plastic parts and those damn ear cushions that start flaking off and eventually decompose.
Enjoyed your video as usual, Steve. I have a question: What do you use as a streamer for Tidal, Qobuz, etc.....? Always wanted to ask, but kept forgetting.
Had a pair of 80's.....loved the sound, but the pads were crappy, and essentially fell apart. The headband was not very comfortable, at least to my head, and the cables, even though I was always very careful with them, shorted out on me a couple times. I was able to fix it twice, but then, I just gave up. Great SOUNDING headphones....still my overall favorite sound signature, but questionable build quality......I'd probably be willing to get a pair of the new 60's or 80's...but, wouldn't want to spend more for the higher end models, as I'd be concerned about their longevity due to the way they're built. I can deal with the lack of comfort, at least to a point, but it would be nice if they would try to improve on that a bit, as well.
Grado, c'mon.. What are the TWO complaints that everyone has about your headphones? Non - detachable cables and cheap plastic build. Why they absolutely refuse to address this is beyond me. It's absurd that anything past $99 is built like that.
Thank you very much for your review I'm tempted to buy Grado Headphones I listen almost exclusively to Psychedelic Blues-rock Vintage music focused on overdiven electric Guitar tone (Cream/Jimi Hendrix Expericence/Deep Purple/Rory Gallagher ecc) and I'm searching for an headphone with controlled Bass response, Great MIDS (flat opr +1db) And high frequencies not emphasized. I know Grado are great pair of headphones for the genre of music I'm Into BUT Highs are a problem for me..I like detail and clarity but not too much. What If I purchase a LITTLE DOT valvolar ampli?Maybe I can contain the high frequencies? I would also consider buying Sennhaiser HD600..250 ohm instead of 32 Ohm of the grado but not too Trebly like Grado Thank for your attention
I just bought the 325x. I was expecting something special. I don’t think they deliver in that regard. Another upgrade that has left me underwhelmed. The cable is a bit of a joke. My two ear cups face in the same direction when it hangs down naturally. I think I’d probably take someone who knows what they’re doing as opposed to promoting ‘handmade in Brooklyn’ on the box. I’ll update in a week or so.
So the cable is gradually straightening. I’m guessing it was twisted due to the way it was packaged in the box. I’ve bent the headband to reduce the clamping force, and have to have the cable on my lap otherwise I was getting neck ache. Still on the fence about the sound quality. Something about the open back design reminds me of my old PX100’s. They’re OK, just not really sure what the Grado sound is compared to others I own.
So the news is GRADO will survive without your business. They’ve been making headphones for over 30 years without detachable cables, and doing very very well. You of course have choices not to buy their headphones. So that’s good, but you imply some sort of threat, weird . They don’t need your business.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac What's weird is that you read some kind of "threat" into anything I wrote, when there was none. And I'm so relieved that Grado can do without my business. Thanks for pointing that out. I thought without my business Grado might go bankrupt.
I have a pair of Grado 80e headphones. I like them. Here's my problem with Grado, the build is exactly the same, the sound is exactly the same, with the exception of the use of wood or metal, they are the same to my ears. Why go buy the 325's if the 80's will do and sound the same? They are bright but I'm old and my hearing is not the same as it once was so the highs don't bother me and in fact enhance my listening experience. I guess I'm just saying that they all see to be the same. I have owned the 325e's and they sounded the same as the 80e's so I sent them back. This is just my listening experience. Judge for yourself.
That's interesting, but it doesn't match my experience. I haven't heard the 325e, so I can't comment on those, but I do have a pair of 80e and a pair of 125e, and the 125e is clearly better to my ears - a bit smoother and more open.
@@lesrobert2777 I'm almost 60yo so music now sounds different than in my youth. I now use Focal Utopia's, Sennheiser 660s, and the Sundara's. I like them all but those Grado's are within reach if I want them.
This is what makes audio so great and frustrating. I have owned a pair of the original 325s for years. No e or x or anything. They are my go to cans for serious listening. I'm on my 7th pair of foam pads and I love them. I disagree with the comparison to horn speakers which I find to be irritating and unlistenable hence the frustrating part of the hobby.
@@johnsmith1474 That's your experience and I'm not trying to change anybody's mind. For me and many audiophiles I know horns are non starters. You can't make somebody like a speaker that doesn't sound good to them. BTW most music comes from the instruments not from the speakers used to fill a large space.
From what I know the original version was just SR325. Then SR325i , SR325is, SR325e and now SR325x. I could be wrong and maybe the (i) version was the first one. I have the (is).
@@Marian1st. I'm sorry if I didn't make it clear which model I own. Yes it was the original 325. I'm sure they have been improved but I'm happy with mine until I find something significantly better. It's hard finding places to hear good cans.
@@gitmobob6266 no worries. I’ve been stuck with mine for 10 years. lol … but I like them. I only had to change the pads every 2 , 3 years. I wish we would have some places where we could listen to new headphones.
@@Marian1st. Marian, my pads only last about 1.5 to 2 years. Very few audio stores actually cater to headphone enthusiasts and even rarer will have any to demo and usually only 1 choice. Manufacturers web sites are horrible at telling you who sells their product if they are not internet only companies.
Brother Steve, what about my theory of favoring, purchasing hi/lo fi from manufactures who manufacture one thing? They specialize in amps, speakers, turntables, headphones, cartridges or cables and that's it. Not everything. I don't order fish at a steakhouse, for example. Am I on to something? I think so.
Been waiting to hear how it sounds. I'm new to Amy. Did she have a history of putting out good sounding records? Thanks Steve. Keep talking about vinyl please.
Today I listened to a couple of headphones, the B&W px8, the Denon D5200, AirPod Max, sennheiser 660s2 and the last one Grado SR325X…. The grado was one world apart. The rest is history…. Beautiful
been loving the SR325X's for at least a year now. with a EQ, they can do anything, absolute monsters..
I also have the 325e’s, love them! All I can say about Grados is - good source material sounds awesome, but if you listen to a bad, overly compressed recording, you will know it!
Listening to this video now on my Grado SR125s. Bought them in 2005, and listen to them every day at work. Also own a Uturn turntable lol. Nice to see things made in the US!
Few internet sources claims that new SR325x have exactly the same drivers as used for Hemp, but sound tad less darker due to aluminium cups. Can you please comment on how do you compare 325x to Hemps? Are they really that similar, and if not then what's the difference?
I just ordered a U turn white turntable with acrylic table with blue cartridge and phono amp. Can’t wait to get it and plug it in
I have the PS500e which I love but I swapped the pads for the PS1000e pads. Not only did it improve the sound (for me) but they are also much more comfortable. As you get older you hear less high frequencies but Grado headphones seem to counteract this, which out of all the headphones I have auditioned, make them the best headphone for me.
Kudos to U TURN! Hope to see many more products from them.
HA! I just ordered my 80x yesterday, based on your glowing reviews of the 80e
Love Grado. I have about 5 pairs. But I hate the foam pads. I always replace them with sennheiser pads. However, all 5 pairs now in a container box after buying the Meze Empyrean.
I have two grado’s: the 60e, the 125e. A few months ago I wanted to upgrade and was thinking about the Grado 325e, but in a review of different headphones, in that review there was the Grado 325e and the Hifiman Sundara. Your choice was that Hifiman Sundara sounded much beter than the Grado. So I went to my dealer and took listening of the Hifiman for about a hour and I ordered one. And I must say that the Hifiman sounds relaxter, very open and detailed with enough bass. When I listen to classical music and blues the sound is refined, when I listen to rock music of the years 70,80 the sound was to surprise also very good with good bass. The Sundara sounds for my taste audiophile. But when I need a boost and play rock I take my Grado for a hour, and when I have my energy back I take my Sundara for rest of time.
I love Grado but I also love the Hifiman Sundara which is sold in Belgium for 349 euros
Greetings Ludo
Belgium
Perfect, two very different sounding headphones is a smart way to go!
Thank you Steve!
My friend Kevin, an LP fanatic (he produced the documentary "Long Playing Movie") bought a U-Turn about 4 years ago & swapped in an Ortophon 2M Blue. He's still happy with it.
I rocked the 60e until it broke, so I instantly bought the X version when it came out, it's so much nicer overall, I love them!
I would love to buy the higher end ones, but the price + import taxes is just prohibitive, at least for me.
That sucks big time. Just looked for the 325x that costs 295$....here in Germany its 399€ !!!!
Thank you Steve, I wanted to try a pair of Grado headphones and I wasn’t sure about which model to go for I normally pitch in and go for a companies mid to high range but after listening to yet another one of your excellent reviews this time Grado sr325x I decided to give them a try before paying a lot more for the higher priced models. “Wow” they are absolutely wonderful, I have various wired over ear headphones from Focal, Hifiman, Sennheiser to name a few and these leave them in the shade. Regarding the Sennheiser HD650 I find listening to them is like watching television in SD yes there is detail but they lack clarity, the Focals have detail and clarity like watching in HD but the SR325x are like watching in UHD 8K.
I am listening to them through my computer (Tidal Maters) linked to a Loxjie D50 dac which has the super AK dac chip at either end I have an ifi audio silencer and a purifier 3 these are then connected by balanced cables to a Topping A90 amplifier they are played on the middle gain setting they absolutely submerse me in a most wonderful detailed sound and staging with superb vocals much clearer then my Ananda’s and Focals.
“Yes” they are not the most comfortable to ware but most aren’t for me having a large point in the centre of my head but I solve this with all my head phones apart from the Hd650 which has the centre cut out and are super comfy so I mimic them using hat fillers discretely positioned so not to detract from the appearance also going to try the lager pads just to see how much they alter the sound. Regarding all the negative comments on the build quality I have no issues at all they are on par with my Ananda’s but the Focals are as you no on another level. The cable I understand the comments but would I want to change it for another which may deprive me of this amazing sound absolutely not. Packaging is sparse but they arrived intact and I much prefer putting the expense into the headphones quality.
Thank you once again don’t ever change your style of presentation it is so super informative and enjoyable to watch, Phil happy boy👍
indeed my first audition with sr 325 x was instant falling in love, still my fav in that price range, wonder how it sound with those personal modified version
Was listening to my SR80e’s last night. Now I want the X version. Darn it, Steve! Now I need more headphones
They’re cheap!!
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac I know. Probably ordering some tonight.
Come on Grado. It isn't hard. Give us metal gimbals and detachable cables. This isn't acceptable in the current year.
Socketed cables would be very welcome, yes. It might hike up the price a little bit. But they could offer different cables like they do with pads and enhance the "do your own thing" feeling. And Grado users, being Grado users would end up buying at least 3 different cables, maybe more.
AND metal gimballs. Another little price hike. They do all the injection molding in house: the plastic pieces and metal pivot. (much more durable than I expected.) Metal parts must be outsourced. For the premium lines, maybe. For the starter ranges it would hike up the cost...and it wouldn't be done in Brooklyn. That's a no no... unless they found a local metalworker, just as they found a carpenter for the bowls.
They could offer it as another modular option and lots of people would go for it.
the headphones sound better with the cable soldered directly to the drivers. Try soldering your speaker cable direct on the crossovers......magie happens
Price hike reduce the models.
Theres no reason to add your own cable, unless youre gonna spend $200 on an aftermarket cable or it breaks. But to replace it with a cheap $70 cable from Amazon would take a big hit sonically
I purchased the 325x again after trying a bunch of headphones. Grado has the best sounding headphones I’ve ever heard period. Nothing else comes close.
Great CONTENT ! Thanks for everything you do DAILY !!!! You ROCK !
Thanks for the review, Steve!
I DO wish Grado made an over the ear headphone. I love the Grado sound but the on ear ear ups cause my ears to hurt after about 20 minutes.
Yes, I always felt Grado went the are you tough enough approach, sound too, although it was fantastic with time, I love the velvet caress of my decadent Beyerdynamics, caressing me like Weimar Berlin never ended.
I hear you on the on-ear pads. They are particularly rough on those of us who wear glasses. There are some things you can try though. You can always go with the G cups on any of these models. I have them on my 325e and my wireless GW100. They go over the ear and are more comfortable. There are also aftermarket ear pads that work well. I have a pair of leather pads from Beautiful Audio that are quite expensive, but are little pillows of love for your ears.
@@yiasemi hahahaha, decadent Beyetdynamics are supremely comfortable!
The GS and PS series are over-ear, but they are in a different price range.
@@ericdaniel323 The ear pads are all interchangeable on all the models. $55 gets you the over the ear cushions for any Grado.
Brought the SR80s based on Steve's recommendation years ago. Love them. Utilizing a Denon PRA 1500 as Headphone amp, with Marantz 5001 into a Musical Fidelity X-10D as a buffer. Really open, believable sound.
I'm thinking of upgrading to the SR80x...
To my ears, my Grado RS1’s and RS2e’s are more natural sounding, especially on solo piano music than any other headphone I’ve heard, including the Hifiman Arya and 5xx, the Focal Clear, and the AKG K812.
You have great knowledge of music and expert in sound. Your compare of grado 325x to audio technica m50x is perfect. Grado is clearer and sharper. But I still think audio technica msr7 is best headphone for female vocals and music. Give msr7 a try !
Even the 60e puts the m50x to shame. 😁 The 80e is even better, the best value in the line. So I'm assuming the 80x would be great. Maybe it's time to upgrade my 80e. Thanks, Steve!
I have the 325e Grados, which I love. I like the headline phone cushions compared to my 125s. My one complaint has always been the way their cables sit.
Steve, you must live near an iconic Goodwill. I’ve not seen those pattern shirts in decades!
And I’m 63...
Nope, he buys them new and actually posted the site at some point.
Well I sure went to the link he provided one time....maybe it was just a particular shirt.
Thanks. Love my 80e so much there isn't any urge to change.
Is the 325x a Hemp beater?
When Steve uses words like "transparent" it has little meaning to me. Anyway it's a good question although the Hemp is a collectible of limited production so kind of a different beast. I bought the Hemp so have to console myself even if 325x sounds better.
Steve and my GRADO 325 - A PERFECT MATCH! LADYVA Boogie Woogie piano on TH-cam sounds great and addictive! Steve needs to add a little music once in a while! Music on TH-cam may be compressed, but Yuja Wang, Evgeny Kissin, Martha Argerich and other fantastic musicians -- my GRADO 325 brings a balance, tonal quality and a lifelike musical presence!
Maybe time to sell my sr225e and have a look at those Xs. Would be nice to compare the 225 and the 325. I've heard the E versions of them on separate occasions, and, although I wasn't able to go back and forth on the spot, I've heard the 225s so many times that I kind of got the impression that the sound was pretty darn close to equal between the two and that the 325's extra cost is more about fine materials what with the real stitched-leather headband and metal housings. But I don't know. Would be nice to actually compare the sound.
Does the 325x sound better than the hemp?
Grados all sound fantastic in their own way. I fall in love every time I have bought a set…. And appreciate the more I hear this specific pair. However when you upgrade it you will feel and hear the upgrade. Then it settles into its peak again. It’s an addicting and very rewarding experience.
Sounds like I need to get a 325x. I use the ATH-M50xPB for editing sometimes, along with the Sennheiser HD 25 Anniversary edition and the old Sennheiser HD 600. My preference is the HD 25, which sounds great and is comfortable. The new Grados are intriguing.
I have Grado SR 325is. I wonder how do these compare.
Great talk, man. Thanks!
Is there a loudspeaker that has that grado sound?
I just got my SR80e like a month ago so I'm a little annoyed I didn't just wait but I'm still in love with my 80e's and I got them for there msrp or the price of the sr60x's $100
I've been listening to my 325x's for a little bit (+aftermarket pads). I've never heard a Grado, prior. Compared to my 6xx, it sounds like my ears are being assaulted. Sometimes, in a good way. I like them with electronic music. What's really impressive about them is how easy they are to drive. They sound good off an iphone dongle
The grados treble hits hard when your ears get accustomed to another pair. Even when I switch from my grados hemp to my 125e after using the hemp for months its aggressive for a bit ( the hemp do the grado sound in a smoother way(
I have a pair of the SR80s and they sound great but I hate the cushion that come with them. Even the new replacements I go shed,flake,and crumble.
Love your vids and hate to be the one to correct you but I just looked at the grado UK website and it lists the impedance for the Prestige X series as 32 ohms?... Or maybe they just haven't updated it properly here...
I literally just received a set of grado hemps yesterday (which is 38 ohms). Would love to hear how you think the new X series compares, especially if they are using the same driver... (I might feel a little disappointed for paying the extra premium for the same driver/sound... But then again the hemps are kinda pretty)
Xs are 38 ohms.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac Thanks - probably just the UK team lagging behind.
Hello difference between the Hemp and the 325x?
rtings
WAIT
NEW GRADO
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
ah, i finished watching the video.
new drivers!
I have had love hate relationship with grados. Time to try the X series - I loved the RS1
just a howdy to audiophilily show, got to say is helps a bunch, bringing joy and almost forgotten days of having a room with non xcept a pair of speakers and an amplifier and a bass guitar with rare Fender Bassman 1967 made Amplifier trough a brand new Blaupunkt 16inch driver listening to LPs of all sorts. sweet 2006 . Mr Paul all the best from a nerdy audio mangroo.....
Nice!
Steve...you never said what Grado changed about their phones except for the cable...been thinking about buying a pair.....did they change their drivers? or?
Yes, a new driver.
He did state that in the video
The biggest change is the flat pad. Makes a huge change in sound.
Hey Steve, I've seen quite a few people on forums complain that the X series are a departure from the signature Grado sound and that Grado has essentially bowed down to the constant complaints from the younger generation about their headphones being too bright. What are your thoughts on this? Has Grado lost the signature sound with the X series and particularly the more revealing 325X? I own a 325e and am stuck between the choice of "upgrading" to a newer generation (if that is indeed an upgrade) and holding on to something that might not be available in the near future.
Just the fact they used the f-cushions like the hemp will automatically give them a bassier sound. For the hemp it was magically good though. I don't know for the new series. I would say to switch back to the previous pads,but in my experience using non stock pads on grado kinda ruin the sound
I love grados but I really have a problem with comfort. They're very painful for my ear shape . Darn it.
Yes def do...add to that fact the cable isnt even detachable and its very hard to get inside to mod for the pricepoint they start at....i doubt ill ever own another pair until at MIN they have detachable cables. Have to make use of all these aftermarket ones somehow!! Lol
still have the original SR80s
I'm new to open-back headphones. Would it be possible to wear these in the office/on the subway or is the leakage both ways too much?
I'm listening to this video in my +10 years Grado SR 80 headphones.
Me too!
The Schiit Sol! I want to get my hands on one just to see if they sound as good as they look
I would like to like Grado's but I hate the bad sound they call 'Grado signature' sound. So bad price to quality ratio here in Europe. (500 usd)
Should I get SR325x or RS2e or wait for the RS2x ? Any advice please?
Re: u turn's location: in MA - the town name (don't ask me why) is pronounced "woo-burn".
I have the SR125i and recently tried the GW100 wireless in a shop. Funny how they just released the x series so instead of buying wireless I will just get those. I also tried the Sennheiser Momentum which were pretty good, but sounded bad at loud volumes.
The wireless model is OK, I much preferred are wired headphones. The RS one and two are really really good, yeah hold out for the X models
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac Do you feel that it is worth paying double the price of RS325x to get wooden cup RS2 e or x ? Have you compared these two models? When I was in the shop I also tried the Sony WH-1000XM4 which were VERY comfortable and nicely built. They sounded good with electronic music as they had a good lows kick. But at almost double the price of GW100 they didn't have the sound resolution that the GW100 have, e.g. being able to hear a long fading voice reverb/echo and layer separation. I came to a conclusion that maybe in reality I don't really need wireless headphones but started thinking about upgrading the wired cups.
So what do you think, SR325x or RS2 ?
I’m a huge Grado fan and want to try out the 325x but am reading comments at places about how horrid the comfort is. Looks like your ears are on the larger side. I say this because you stated they were more comfortable than the previous model (with L-pads.) Yeah the family portrait picture that comes with the Grado box… they have larger ears too. I figured out how to make my on ear grados comfortable with the L pads years ago. I have smaller ears so I’m afraid to try the new re-released pads. I am assuming smaller ears just rest their ears directly on the drivers while wearing them. As people are complaining about as well. If not put back in a case to protect them often you may end up having to buy a new pair every year or two but I don’t give a hoot I love their sound so much it’s just the one baby.
I’ve got fairly average ears and they don’t touch the drivers. Comfort wise they’re OK for me, but I can see why some might have issues. The headband is fine. I’m bald and have no issue with it. A bit more padding on the cups would be nice but DMS did mention they soften after a couple of weeks. I’ll probably try one of the other pad types at some point. Have to say I’m not blown away by the sound quality. Feels quite average to me compared to others I own from AKG and B&O. I was expecting something a bit special and don’t feel they deliver in that regard. At the moment I somewhat regret not getting the Sundara.
@@doifeellucky maybe not enough soundstage for you. The Sundara might be better for you with that. Grado is a very specific kind of sound. If you don’t like one at all you won’t like any of the others in their lineup. Thanks for letting me know about your experience with the comfort.
@@ekolite8224 They sound OK, I guess I was expecting the sound signature to be different to what I already have. Do they change after burn in?
@@doifeellucky I have had a couple of Grados that changed a lot after about 40-50 hours.
@@ekolite8224 Thanks. I’ll be keeping them so will see how they are in a few weeks.
Owned grading cart before my dynavector 20x2. Found shielding to be non-existent. Might just have been unlucky
Hi Steve, what do you think about using these without a headphone amp? The reason I ask this is because I seem to recall some years back in a review of an earlier version of 325s, that they could be used without an amp. So, what's your opinion on this? Thanks for your help.
The e gen was all 32 ohms. Can be ran out of anything with an headphone input no problems. The x gen is 38 ohms (I suspect they used the same driver they did for the hemp). And it is still the case. Can be ran out of anything with a headphone plug. Personnally I use a fiio btr5 and it sounds better out of it. But its definetly not necessary
Citizen Cope's wife Alice Smith is the best singer in the world.
How badly would the sound be affected if plugged into an iPhone XR using the lightning adapter?
Had the 60s and the 325,
Good for the price. But, yeah, cheap plastic parts and those damn ear cushions that start flaking off and eventually decompose.
Enjoyed your video as usual, Steve. I have a question: What do you use as a streamer for Tidal, Qobuz, etc.....? Always wanted to ask, but kept forgetting.
Node 2i
Woburn is actually pronounced Woo-burn, weirdly.
have you tried sony mh1/mh1c?
Had a pair of 80's.....loved the sound, but the pads were crappy, and essentially fell apart. The headband was not very comfortable, at least to my head, and the cables, even though I was always very careful with them, shorted out on me a couple times. I was able to fix it twice, but then, I just gave up.
Great SOUNDING headphones....still my overall favorite sound signature, but questionable build quality......I'd probably be willing to get a pair of the new 60's or 80's...but, wouldn't want to spend more for the higher end models, as I'd be concerned about their longevity due to the way they're built.
I can deal with the lack of comfort, at least to a point, but it would be nice if they would try to improve on that a bit, as well.
Grado, c'mon.. What are the TWO complaints that everyone has about your headphones? Non - detachable cables and cheap plastic build. Why they absolutely refuse to address this is beyond me. It's absurd that anything past $99 is built like that.
The Curator speaks truth! The Portal is Opennnnn
@@matt.pma.kresnaputra5458 new album this month!
@@TheHammerofDissidence new album is today!! Already copped the two cds off of profound lore
@@matt.pma.kresnaputra5458 I just saw profound lore put it up. Put my LP order in. I know what I'm listening to today (and not through my Grados..)
@@TheHammerofDissidence with what then if i may ask?
I'm glad I'm not the only one that thinks Grados are uncomfortable. My 325's hurt my ears and the top of my head after about 25 minutes.
Thank you very much for your review
I'm tempted to buy Grado Headphones
I listen almost exclusively to Psychedelic Blues-rock Vintage music focused on overdiven electric Guitar tone (Cream/Jimi Hendrix Expericence/Deep Purple/Rory Gallagher ecc) and I'm searching for an headphone with controlled Bass response, Great MIDS (flat opr +1db) And high frequencies not emphasized.
I know Grado are great pair of headphones for the genre of music I'm Into BUT Highs are a problem for me..I like detail and clarity but not too much.
What If I purchase a LITTLE DOT valvolar ampli?Maybe I can contain the high frequencies?
I would also consider buying Sennhaiser HD600..250 ohm instead of 32 Ohm of the grado but not too Trebly like Grado
Thank for your attention
. . . a good one, Steve.
I just bought the 325x. I was expecting something special. I don’t think they deliver in that regard. Another upgrade that has left me underwhelmed. The cable is a bit of a joke. My two ear cups face in the same direction when it hangs down naturally. I think I’d probably take someone who knows what they’re doing as opposed to promoting ‘handmade in Brooklyn’ on the box. I’ll update in a week or so.
So the cable is gradually straightening. I’m guessing it was twisted due to the way it was packaged in the box. I’ve bent the headband to reduce the clamping force, and have to have the cable on my lap otherwise I was getting neck ache. Still on the fence about the sound quality. Something about the open back design reminds me of my old PX100’s. They’re OK, just not really sure what the Grado sound is compared to others I own.
Can't believe Grado Can't figure out that people want replaceable cables and balanced connections...
No detachable cable on the Grado?...hard pass.
So the news is GRADO will survive without your business. They’ve been making headphones for over 30 years without detachable cables, and doing very very well. You of course have choices not to buy their headphones. So that’s good, but you imply some sort of threat, weird . They don’t need your business.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac What's weird is that you read some kind of "threat" into anything I wrote, when there was none. And I'm so relieved that Grado can do without my business. Thanks for pointing that out. I thought without my business Grado might go bankrupt.
You can always just learn how to perform a detachable mod yourself.
I don't own any vinyl so I can't justify picking up a turntable. Nor do I own a turntable, so I can't justify starting an vinyl collection.
Heard it on the X ...
Impressive value
Weird nightmare album is really awesome! ❤️
#butbut STFU
I have NAD C268 and C368 plus c568, Audiovector M3 signature and a Rel R 205 sub, is this still hifi??
Sure!
I have a pair of Grado 80e headphones. I like them. Here's my problem with Grado, the build is exactly the same, the sound is exactly the same, with the exception of the use of wood or metal, they are the same to my ears. Why go buy the 325's if the 80's will do and sound the same? They are bright but I'm old and my hearing is not the same as it once was so the highs don't bother me and in fact enhance my listening experience. I guess I'm just saying that they all see to be the same. I have owned the 325e's and they sounded the same as the 80e's so I sent them back. This is just my listening experience. Judge for yourself.
That's interesting, but it doesn't match my experience. I haven't heard the 325e, so I can't comment on those, but I do have a pair of 80e and a pair of 125e, and the 125e is clearly better to my ears - a bit smoother and more open.
I have a pair of 60, 325 et gs1000, and they sound all different to me.
@@lesrobert2777 I'm almost 60yo so music now sounds different than in my youth. I now use Focal Utopia's, Sennheiser 660s, and the Sundara's. I like them all but those Grado's are within reach if I want them.
@@osliverpool I'm old so my experience maybe different than yours. I still enjoy my Gardo's on occasion. Right now I'm all about the Sennheiser 660s
It's a weird nightmare alright. What a mix of......well....."stuff".....
I could use a recommendation for a good closedback headphone. Max 300 dollars. Anyone?
Meze Classic 99
DT770 is very decent if you find a good price on a used set. Wouldn't buy it new though.
Why is open sound better? If you feel like vocals are in your face, it males you want to sing.
This is what makes audio so great and frustrating. I have owned a pair of the original 325s for years. No e or x or anything. They are my go to cans for serious listening. I'm on my 7th pair of foam pads and I love them. I disagree with the comparison to horn speakers which I find to be irritating and unlistenable hence the frustrating part of the hobby.
@@johnsmith1474 That's your experience and I'm not trying to change anybody's mind. For me and many audiophiles I know horns are non starters. You can't make somebody like a speaker that doesn't sound good to them. BTW most music comes from the instruments not from the speakers used to fill a large space.
From what I know the original version was just SR325. Then SR325i , SR325is, SR325e and now SR325x. I could be wrong and maybe the (i) version was the first one. I have the (is).
@@Marian1st. I'm sorry if I didn't make it clear which model I own. Yes it was the original 325. I'm sure they have been improved but I'm happy with mine until I find something significantly better. It's hard finding places to hear good cans.
@@gitmobob6266 no worries. I’ve been stuck with mine for 10 years. lol … but I like them. I only had to change the pads every 2 , 3 years.
I wish we would have some places where we could listen to new headphones.
@@Marian1st. Marian, my pads only last about 1.5 to 2 years. Very few audio stores actually cater to headphone enthusiasts and even rarer will have any to demo and usually only 1 choice. Manufacturers web sites are horrible at telling you who sells their product if they are not internet only companies.
Where is the over 30s hifi video? 🤔
Next weekend
What about Apples new Lossless audio? Will you be testing that out?
Unlikely sorry
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac how could you call yourself an audiophile with such a closed mind? Its only $10 😆
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac no wonder you can’t get to 200,000 subscribers
Buy the time you buy a turntable from U-Turn and make it usable it will cost you several hundred dollars. So phooey about the cheap price.
Have to say about Grado, great sound, not great build quality or customer service.
Steve, I think you've hinted at a coming trend. Headphones may be the next hot collectable, look at what happened with sneakers
What happened to sneakers? Is that why I can't find any?....
Brother Steve, what about my theory of favoring, purchasing hi/lo fi from manufactures who manufacture one thing? They specialize in amps, speakers, turntables, headphones, cartridges or cables and that's it. Not everything. I don't order fish at a steakhouse, for example. Am I on to something? I think so.
Amy at the BBC! I didn't know about that one !
Been waiting to hear how it sounds. I'm new to Amy. Did she have a history of putting out good sounding records? Thanks Steve. Keep talking about vinyl please.
@@geol7408 I don't think the records were insanely good but the BBC is one cut I hadn't heard
I'm listening to the BBC cut now and it's WAYYY better than her usual album the recording is WAYYY better . Unusually good
Man, honestly, terrible Grado review. It deserves much more.
Amy Winehouse was the best singer EVER