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I really enjoy my SR60e headphones and they have the same issue with the cable. You just gave me the idea to mod them. I will cut the cable and make it so that i can use a custom cable with a normal 3,5mm. I really enjoy your reviews btw. You are awesome👍🏻
The non-detachable wire on my sr60e was the first thing to break, then I melted the driver trying to open the enclosure to fix them. Anything with an attached cable over 20 dollars is an instant no buy, especially in 2021.
I brought a pair of Sr225e's loved the sound a lot but hated the attached cable so much I ended up sending them back. Even out of the box the cable looked twisted and on its way to a broken cable.
I recently purchased a set of Sony MDR-7506 headphones for $80 and I love them. But that cable, grrrr 🤬. I like using them with portable devices when I'm mobile but running a coiled cable down your shirt for concealment is almost non-doable. And I'm not doing that half-ass mod where people solder in a jack into the ear cup.
Yeah, I'm not super anti-non-detachable wires since they're what I've had to deal with all my life, but at least 80% of those shitty wires aren't like whatever the _fuck_ that is. That is literally the same wire my vacuum and microwave uses to plug into a socket, probably even the same as my fridge's cord, too. Absolutely disgusting to look at and heavier than the headphones themselves.
I abandoned Grados a few years back just due to the problems you described. Also despised the infinite spin of the ear cups. With an attached wire,, that ended up destroying the wire over time.
Attached wires are why I *skipped* a lot of headphones when I considered my last purchase. I didn't even consider anything else once I saw attached wires. Hard Pass.
I am a huge Grado fan boy but enough is enough. You said it perfectly, "the Chinese are killing us". Grado will continue to live in the past and lose sales to headphones that are better made, come with better (and more convenient) headbands, cables and ear pads. For $420 dollars, there are dozens of headphones that are light years better than Grados and only the most devoted fans will even "consider" Grados over other headphones. Make them change with your wallet. Don't buy Grados until they decide to join the rest of us in 2021. They will either change or go under.
I like the fact that they are maintaining their tradition of hand-building headphones in Brooklyn, but some times I feel like they are too stuck up their own asses to actually change anything.
Hi Grado, you can do better, I believe you can. I agree with Zeos on all his recommendations for you, he's right, but not because he's Zeos, but because these are all obvious suggestions that I know all you guys have thought of too, but then didn't do for reasons.
I am an audiophile by night and a trampoline inspector by day. That cable would slap me in the face while jumping and black my eye. It is unacceptable.
I’ve wanted Grados for years, but I just won’t buy anything with an attached cable. As soon as they’ve got a removable cables I’ll have a pair on the way.
GRADO! OMG, how about working out a deal with Drop and let them design them with detachable cables, great pads and a new headband design. You'll make billions! wtf?
Absolutely agree zeos every grado I've ever used has had the self same problems, and others, I stopped purchasing them over a decade ago because of this situation, hopefully if things are rectified at the grado end, I would be willing to purchase again, great review and assessment of the grados zeos
The rant about the $40 foam was on point... It's hilarious that it it cost so much because they are shaped like donuts but the huge foam block that comes protecting the headphones is worthless.
I think I saw a walkthrough years ago on YT. I am afraid to look now. I get it they don't like change. I don't like change. But I also don't like doing the same shitty things over and over and letting people complain about it. Is the headcam shakey? Yes. Is it not 4k yet, Correct. do I curse too much? Yes. But I get like 1 complaint every 6 videos. I cannot imagine any less then 25% of all grado reviews bring up the build decisions. And they outweight the sound advancements.
If anything their facility makes it more egregious, I mean think about the 75 clones of the Sendy Aiva because all the Chinese companies contracted with the same factory and could really only use the one design that factory made parts for. Meanwhile Grado has a fully custom production line and their own permanent space and they can't even be assed for an extra table or a decent hot glue gun?
@@ZReviews nope. "NEVERRR!!!" Raw Dirty Shakiness is Zeos Signature! This is Dirty Audiophilia here! don't blend yourself into the masses poor taste Zeos! >> Be the Larry Flynt of Audiophilia you wanna see in this World!!
you can tell the frustration comes from love. and thats the best part. its not just from a critical point of view. its from a point of view of love, and wanting the company to be the absolute best they can be. a company that has so much potential thats just not fully living up to it. and its beautiful honestly
subscribed today, it takes a brilliant salesman to make me go from loving to disliking my m50x's and afterwards making me spend 300euro on Meze 99 Classics, all within a 2 hour span. To be frank you do seem so honest and personally involved while critiqueing equipment that it actually has the intended effect on me and probably many others. Good shit, will be following you from here on out.
I have had Grados for many. many years. I purchased the Hemp a few months ago and they sound superb, but I agree with your assessments. I don't ever complain about them though but maybe I should. When I first listen to them, I immediately went to Amazon to order the large GS pads and the medium SR pads - knockoffs of course. And the sound went through the roof. The cable? Well, it is what it is - unwieldy. But the sound! ❤️ My previous Grado's (SR60's, 125's, 325i's) were great but the Hemp really is that good despite its 1950's modularity. For those who want to buy Grado's Hemp or any other worthy offering, just get some GS/SR pads to start with, be ready to deal with its quirks, and just enjoy them! However, I do believe Grado will gradually rid of this old-fashioned design and start "modernizing." Word to Grado: Just start with the cable. I personally don't care if they're detached or not but it needs to be much less wieldy, less thick (thicc?), and more pliable. The GW100's and the GT220's are a great start! Keep it going, guys! But yeah, I guess there will always be a soft spot for the old way too. But the sound! ❤️
The ear pads which are Large are definitely needed. The detachable cable also. In terms of thickness, there is a reason behind it, it's to pack a lot of copper in it in order for the headphones to sound, we can't change the physics, the thicker the wire the better is signal flow. :)
Here's the problem with Grado........ I can always easily find another brand that either sounds better or is significantly cheaper for the same level of sound. I just can't justify them outside of their entry level offerings (SR series) & the retro look.
I'd 100% be down to try out the SR60e at some point since I've heard nothing but praise for them, but just like why I decided to go with the Aeon RT rather than a beyerdynamic, those wires are too big of an issue.
Agree a 100% with everything you have said. Sold my Sr80e and 325e for the reasons you list and won’t buy another Grado as long as they stay the same. They don’t have to loose their identity to make the improvements suggested.
That was a good talking to Grado. I've never tried them but, it sure looks like you know what you talking about. The little I do know about comfort and style in headphones, I can agree with your recommendations.
Ok Zeos -- This will be my second ever pair of Grados. Your gushing over it pushed me over the edge. You don't usually gush to this level unless its really good. I'll pick up the pads you recommend above as well (G1000 pads)
It's too bad Grado shoots themselves in the foot with these seemingly easily fixable problems because they are a cool company, made and designed in America which is respectable and not the easy path, especially when offering pretty affordable headphones. They should go way more perfect-build boutique OR just simply improve these small things on their cheaper models too. I'd actually gladly pay a more for a detached cable option and as someone who works at a fairly small business in America, I could understand how this cost is actually justified for the feature. I have SR80s and they aren't necessarily my favorite pair for a lot of things but I do really like that they were made in America. I also have Periodic Audios Mg & Be IEMs, also both attached cables on IEMs. Almost a deal breaker but they sound fantastic and also made in America.
It sort of is mind boggling that you have that crazy selection of headphones available and you choose to wear those grados. Almost as mind boggling as the price of these Hemps.
I own a pair of Grado Hemp and I couldn’t be happier. Yes improvements can be made, but I find the simplicity and the overall design, sturdy and durable. No head band adjustment required. I also own an old pair of SE80 for about 10 years, and I never had any problems with those ether: those are actually the only headphones I feel comfortable to throw in the backpack with no case or protection of any kind. Yes the cable is heavy, and could be nice to hav it detachable for customization, but the cans are super comfortable for hours with the original pads (I will try the bigger one on your suggestion anyway). This are my n.1 cans to take on a stroll with the dog.... no other “audiophile” pair I own, are suitable for walking around town. Good job Grado!
It's interesting, none of the build issues z refers too would modify the heritage or style of Grado. The general build quality issues Z refers too is why I have never bought a grado headphone more expensive than the Sr80e. I just can't justify it, but wouod be happy to do so in the future if they had things like a detachable cable and stronger hinge mechanisms
@@ZReviews I get it, I do. But I also think maybe it's not a good thing to sic your audience on a family-owned business for something they've been doing for 70 some-odd years that is unlikely to change.
@@zackalzar1 I do, actually. I never said Z was wrong. I stated my own opinion, then I said that maybe it's not a good thing to sic his audience on a family owned company. If it helps, here is the definition of "sic": 1: CHASE, ATTACK -usually used as a command especially to a dog //sic 'em 2: to incite or urge to an attack, pursuit, or harassment : SET //sicced their lawyers on me
@@jafizzle95 Yes numb nuts i can read. One you are being overly dramatic about Z trying to "sic" his audience. Two you sound like a shill. Stop trying to defend companies like that they don't need it. Last he literally says for everyone to buy these in the video. I'm pretty sure the company will be happy about that
The only attached wire I'm willing to accept in my collection is on the Koss ESP/95X. Other then that, nothing else in my collection has an attached wire, nor would I likely consider buying something more then $100 without a detachable wire.
I absolutely adore than entire meeting skit, it's so wonderfully to the point and entertaining whilst providing so much constructive feedback rather than just saying 'this and this suck, fix it somehow'. bravo Zeos
Personally believe that every review should be run in this format, public meetings are required to enable debate within the audiofile community. Also just raise the price to $690 and fix all the issues, thanks
Here is the HiFiGuides Post about this headphone. Showing the "mod" I had to do because the Yolk snapped. forum.hifiguides.com/t/grado-ltd-edition-hemp/14021/235
I sold all my Grados just because I couldn't deal with the cables anymore. The foam ear pads already were a compromise for me but the cables just became a deal breaker on the long term use of the headphones. Also just found out the GW100 and bought the V2 and its automatically my favourite pair of headphones. I really want the hemp for the sound that everyone keeps talking about, but I just can't pull the trigger on it. That cable... that f**** cable.
I had Sr60 and then 80s in the late nineties... I bought a pair of sennheiser hd580s in 2000 and haven't looked back. I loved the way the grados sounded then but the hd580s could be worn all day long without smashing your ears and sounded better, at least that's how I remember it. It has been a while lol... Oh also the grados were falling apart ... the drivers would slide off the metal rods used for adjusting them. I still loved them though for the time and money!
Its the pad and the glue that makes the sound great. The bigger pad looses the balance of the bass. They don't work the same. They need ultra thin pads to deliver what you hear. lol
I was highly interested in buying some Grado headphones but this video has reminded me on why i haven't pulled the trigger yet. Grado you have so many people in this same position, you gotta do something guys...
I have GW100 and SR60e. I love the cable on the SR60e. I de-soldered it reinforced it with heat shrink so it doesn't rotate infinitely and I love how it feels.
Yes, make a detachable cables. I have pulled on the cables so much because I forgot I'm wearing them. The left side is now like earpods trying to get the cable in the correct position so I can hear the music out of both sides. Might just be me but still make detachable cables!!!!!!!!
So glad I don't have any of these issues with my Sendy Aiva headphones that I bought two years from your recommendation. They are comfortable, sound great, have a great headband (with L and R logos) and most importantly have an amazing light weight and detachable cable
After watching the sound demo I was so ready to drop some money on these cans. Attached janky cable with shitty earpads completely turned me off. But you're absolutely right Z, they sound amazing. Hopefully they can update them based on your feedback.
Drawbacks aside, I absolutely adore my Grados. I don't care about the cable, I have no problem with the headband. I can't wait to try a better earpad because, yes, that is a problem.
@@ZReviews Mine took forever to straighten, but it's pretty ok. I know John Chen and he told me not to change earpads, but I have to try something. I can't stand the fact that after an hour of wearing them my ears feel like I'm a college wrestler.
Those flat pads with the slits are based off the TTVJ pads, which are THE best Grado second market pads ever. And $50. The slits allow allow clarity while the flatness gives it bass. Theyre the BEST Grado pads and immediately take the harshness out of Grados. Google it. TTVJ Deluxe.
@@ZReviews yeah i think the TTVJ were especially good for models that needed it, and it seems that these are naturally tuned to be more buttery on their own (maybe the Hemp itself?). Geekria makes a Comfort Foam thats similar, and does work in tapping down thw treble spikes, but they do muddy that beautiful top end. The TTVJs cure that with the slits lettinf in that detail. The best after market Grado pads are the big ones you suggest. You nailed that. You da man Z.
So Meze Empyrean and Abyss 1266 are worse off because you can unplug the connector. All of the ZMF line and new Stax too? Every SIngle Focal and Sennheiser.
I just bought the grado hemps partially based your and other reviews of the hemps. I agree with everything you have said about them. Yes you have screwed up grado nonsense BUT….. the sound is glorious ! Thanks for you reviews, keep ‘em coming
I've been a Grado fan for years, two observations. The F pad is largely responsible for it's "non Grado" sound. The G cushion makes them much closer to say the RS2e. I've tried all of the pads you can get on my hemps, 325e and SR80, and they all follow the same patter. Second, they are NOT difficult to drive, my LG V30 drives them just as well as the other Grados. My Marantz HD DAC1 makes no difference which gain setting I use wrt sound quality. Personally, the cable is a non issue for me, but can understand why some folks get irritated by it.
The first "modern" scientific calculator was the Hewlett-Packard HP-9100A, released in 1968. BTW: u need to review this: Support jacket Bb + FIT WIDE L size SJW201061 from BIC camera in Japan
Have had the pleasure of owning the Hemps for 2 days now. And Fuck I love them so much. Thank you for putting them on my radar. Bought 4 different pads to them because I expected the stock pads to be really shit since that is the general consensus, but for me I prefer both the sound and fit with stock pads. The first few songs I heard I got very nervous since I found them very thin sounding. A slight repositioning of the headphone however made them sparkle. The positioning with stock pads needs to be perfect if not they sound really bad. It is super fun to play around with all the pads so am happy I bought them. Probs gonna try to pad change again when I have run them for a few weeks to see if burn in changes anything. Thank you, again love your work.
Until they modernize their product, the only use I see for Grado's is a prop in a 70s period film. There's no reason a product in that price range should be so out of date. I've seen thinner extension chords than the wire on those headphones. I don't see the point in buy a retro looking, wired, light-weight, open-back pair of headphone when you can buy KPH30i's for 7% of the price of Grado's (and seemingly have similar build quality)
This review pretty much convinced me. I thought the extent of my questionable headphone purchases would be the Meze 99, but it’s time to buy some Hemp.
Dear John, Jonathan & Mathew from Grado. Thankyou so much for shipping such a lovely signed picture of yourselves with your latest Grado headphones. Its so wonderful that it completely distracts us from your shitty earpads, crappy headphone wires and headbands. Maybe it also distracts you from such words as progression, advancement and betterment
![GoldPlanar GL2000 _(Z Reviews)_🌈❤️⚡️🔥💦[Double Magnet]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3Zu5SCf3d0c/mqdefault.jpg)
![GoldPlanar GL2000 _(Z Reviews)_🌈❤️⚡️🔥💦[Double Magnet]](/img/tr.png)
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naisu~~~
I really enjoy my SR60e headphones and they have the same issue with the cable.
You just gave me the idea to mod them. I will cut the cable and make it so that i can use a custom cable with a normal 3,5mm.
I really enjoy your reviews btw. You are awesome👍🏻
KKK k JJ kk kk kk kk kk kk kk kk kk kk kk kk know kk kk kk kk kk JJ JJ
Did Zeos really just video record a twenty minute conversation with a box?
Yes, and I watched it.
I hope Grado watches it.
Yelling at Box is my favorite Quarantine past-time.
Honestly if this had detachable cable I would buy it no joke no meme
I know right. I have had and have several Grado's and but the form factor and comfort is just so mediocre which not made me buy upgrades from them.
The non-detachable wire on my sr60e was the first thing to break, then I melted the driver trying to open the enclosure to fix them. Anything with an attached cable over 20 dollars is an instant no buy, especially in 2021.
Except Koss
Koss ksc75: my time has come
I brought a pair of Sr225e's loved the sound a lot but hated the attached cable so much I ended up sending them back. Even out of the box the cable looked twisted and on its way to a broken cable.
@@stuka78 my headband on my Kph30i failed before the cable lol
I recently purchased a set of Sony MDR-7506 headphones for $80 and I love them. But that cable, grrrr 🤬. I like using them with portable devices when I'm mobile but running a coiled cable down your shirt for concealment is almost non-doable. And I'm not doing that half-ass mod where people solder in a jack into the ear cup.
I'm here to join the Grado reimagination comunity... And 100% agree with Zeos on this.
Absolutely!
Z
That non-detachable wire looks terrible, and is an absolute no-go for me.
Yeah, I'm not super anti-non-detachable wires since they're what I've had to deal with all my life, but at least 80% of those shitty wires aren't like whatever the _fuck_ that is. That is literally the same wire my vacuum and microwave uses to plug into a socket, probably even the same as my fridge's cord, too. Absolutely disgusting to look at and heavier than the headphones themselves.
The cable, these most horrible foam pads, they're totally stuck in 1953 for some reason. It even prevented me to buy the SR60e/SR80e.
That's what's stopping me from the hemps so far.
An attached cable is the ONLY reason I don’t own grado’s
Same
I abandoned Grados a few years back just due to the problems you described. Also despised the infinite spin of the ear cups. With an attached wire,, that ended up destroying the wire over time.
This is one of the best reviews i have seen in my life lmao amazong work as always Z
Hey Grado... what he said☝️. Make it happen.
Attached wires are why I *skipped* a lot of headphones when I considered my last purchase.
I didn't even consider anything else once I saw attached wires.
Hard Pass.
I am a huge Grado fan boy but enough is enough. You said it perfectly, "the Chinese are killing us". Grado will continue to live in the past and lose sales to headphones that are better made, come with better (and more convenient) headbands, cables and ear pads. For $420 dollars, there are dozens of headphones that are light years better than Grados and only the most devoted fans will even "consider" Grados over other headphones. Make them change with your wallet. Don't buy Grados until they decide to join the rest of us in 2021. They will either change or go under.
Grado is the Yugo of headphones, sold at Ferrari prices.
@@aaronmunn2918 but instead of the 4 cylinder shit show the Yugo has, it instead has an Alfa Romeo V6, and handles like an original Mini.
Yeah hard to buy a grado when a Zues is cheaper and kicks it to the kerb
I actually love the cable... after I removed it from the headphone and used it to replace the vacuum power cable I damaged by vacuuming over it.
Attached wire is a showstopper.
Oh yeah, stops me from buying it.
we need to talk about what showstopper means
3 months later and Grado upgraded their cables and headband. Good job Zeos, you're doing small waves of change to Grado with this video.
If you read this grado, the non-detachabke cable is litteraky the reason I won't buy it
Agree 100%
@@rexpresso i want to use these out of my dap. I dont need 4 miles of heave cable
Yeah. Grado is the definition of diminishing returns when it comes to hifi. None of their headphones above $100 are worth their price
I bought my RS1e from Moon Audio. Had them modify for me with black dragon detachable cables... Love them
I like the fact that they are maintaining their tradition of hand-building headphones in Brooklyn, but some times I feel like they are too stuck up their own asses to actually change anything.
At first I thought Zeos was a borderline lunatic. Then I started to buy everything he points at and says "THESE!".
THESE NUTS
@@ZReviews Bought.
I know, I’m about to click ‘buy’ on Kanto Tuks
Hi Grado, you can do better, I believe you can.
I agree with Zeos on all his recommendations for you, he's right, but not because he's Zeos, but because these are all obvious suggestions that I know all you guys have thought of too, but then didn't do for reasons.
Chinese knockoffs of Grado even use detachable 2.5mm cables.
@@aaronmunn2918 and they are still shameless knockoffs
The driver seems to be unique to this headphone. It's the only grado which is 38 ohms, all the other ones are 32 ohms
I am an audiophile by night and a trampoline inspector by day. That cable would slap me in the face while jumping and black my eye. It is unacceptable.
Don’t jump to conclusions.
I’ve wanted Grados for years, but I just won’t buy anything with an attached cable.
As soon as they’ve got a removable cables I’ll have a pair on the way.
Everything that you talked about, is exactly why I will never give Grado a chance.
Grado sound great. Some of them suck though.
That shit, undetachable wire alone is enough to get an "absolutely fucking never" out of me.
31:30 : "We're at 31 minutes, 32 minutes right now?" Well shit, you're getting better at this.
Yup, all these reasons are why I have never bought a Grado. Steve is right on the money with this rant.
GRADO! OMG, how about working out a deal with Drop and let them design them with detachable cables, great pads and a new headband design. You'll make billions! wtf?
Don't let Drop touch this
Grado does not have the facility to mass produce 300 million headphones
@@ramencurry6672 Mass produce them in China (or wherever) like the GW100?
@@yogiwp_ gw100 is probably the most limited run of Grados I've seen, a week after Z's video I couldn't find them anywhere.
@@k.-flynn It's still available today.
These 50 minutes are worth more than a MBA class on product development (and marketing)!
Absolutely agree zeos every grado I've ever used has had the self same problems, and others, I stopped purchasing them over a decade ago because of this situation, hopefully if things are rectified at the grado end, I would be willing to purchase again, great review and assessment of the grados zeos
The rant about the $40 foam was on point... It's hilarious that it it cost so much because they are shaped like donuts but the huge foam block that comes protecting the headphones is worthless.
Absolutely agreeing on this this!!!
Yeah I'm new to this hobby but a detached cable is crucial for me. It's the only reason why I didn't buy the DT770 pros
When you see their facility you understand why they don't make simple changes.
I think I saw a walkthrough years ago on YT. I am afraid to look now. I get it they don't like change. I don't like change. But I also don't like doing the same shitty things over and over and letting people complain about it. Is the headcam shakey? Yes. Is it not 4k yet, Correct. do I curse too much? Yes. But I get like 1 complaint every 6 videos. I cannot imagine any less then 25% of all grado reviews bring up the build decisions. And they outweight the sound advancements.
If anything their facility makes it more egregious, I mean think about the 75 clones of the Sendy Aiva because all the Chinese companies contracted with the same factory and could really only use the one design that factory made parts for. Meanwhile Grado has a fully custom production line and their own permanent space and they can't even be assed for an extra table or a decent hot glue gun?
So, how's that relevant? They are proud to put Made in US, but their facility looks like third world manufactory?!
@@ZReviews could you add some gyroscopic attachment to your headband? Might smooth out the video nicely, although the added weight may be an issue.
@@ZReviews nope. "NEVERRR!!!" Raw Dirty Shakiness is Zeos Signature! This is Dirty Audiophilia here! don't blend yourself into the masses poor taste Zeos! >> Be the Larry Flynt of Audiophilia you wanna see in this World!!
you can tell the frustration comes from love. and thats the best part. its not just from a critical point of view. its from a point of view of love, and wanting the company to be the absolute best they can be. a company that has so much potential thats just not fully living up to it. and its beautiful honestly
subscribed today, it takes a brilliant salesman to make me go from loving to disliking my m50x's and afterwards making me spend 300euro on Meze 99 Classics, all within a 2 hour span. To be frank you do seem so honest and personally involved while critiqueing equipment that it actually has the intended effect on me and probably many others. Good shit, will be following you from here on out.
I have had Grados for many. many years. I purchased the Hemp a few months ago and they sound superb, but I agree with your assessments. I don't ever complain about them though but maybe I should. When I first listen to them, I immediately went to Amazon to order the large GS pads and the medium SR pads - knockoffs of course. And the sound went through the roof. The cable? Well, it is what it is - unwieldy.
But the sound! ❤️
My previous Grado's (SR60's, 125's, 325i's) were great but the Hemp really is that good despite its 1950's modularity. For those who want to buy Grado's Hemp or any other worthy offering, just get some GS/SR pads to start with, be ready to deal with its quirks, and just enjoy them! However, I do believe Grado will gradually rid of this old-fashioned design and start "modernizing." Word to Grado: Just start with the cable. I personally don't care if they're detached or not but it needs to be much less wieldy, less thick (thicc?), and more pliable.
The GW100's and the GT220's are a great start! Keep it going, guys! But yeah, I guess there will always be a soft spot for the old way too.
But the sound! ❤️
The ear pads which are Large are definitely needed. The detachable cable also. In terms of thickness, there is a reason behind it, it's to pack a lot of copper in it in order for the headphones to sound, we can't change the physics, the thicker the wire the better is signal flow. :)
Here's the problem with Grado........
I can always easily find another brand that either sounds better or is significantly cheaper for the same level of sound. I just can't justify them outside of their entry level offerings (SR series) & the retro look.
Normally I would agree but nothing sounds like the Hemp. Believe me.
I'd 100% be down to try out the SR60e at some point since I've heard nothing but praise for them, but just like why I decided to go with the Aeon RT rather than a beyerdynamic, those wires are too big of an issue.
Agree a 100% with everything you have said. Sold my Sr80e and 325e for the reasons you list and won’t buy another Grado as long as they stay the same. They don’t have to loose their identity to make the improvements suggested.
Grado for the love of god make that dude's dream come true so he can set on them without breaking them :) .
i can't believe you only spent 20 minutes in that meeting
That was a good talking to Grado. I've never tried them but, it sure looks like you know what you talking about. The little I do know about comfort and style in headphones, I can agree with your recommendations.
Ok Zeos -- This will be my second ever pair of Grados. Your gushing over it pushed me over the edge. You don't usually gush to this level unless its really good. I'll pick up the pads you recommend above as well (G1000 pads)
Last grado I bought was back when J&R existed and that headband and and those ear pads are the main reason why Skip your brand
'the pads almost look like a bumper for transportation'. Spot on!!!
It's too bad Grado shoots themselves in the foot with these seemingly easily fixable problems because they are a cool company, made and designed in America which is respectable and not the easy path, especially when offering pretty affordable headphones. They should go way more perfect-build boutique OR just simply improve these small things on their cheaper models too. I'd actually gladly pay a more for a detached cable option and as someone who works at a fairly small business in America, I could understand how this cost is actually justified for the feature.
I have SR80s and they aren't necessarily my favorite pair for a lot of things but I do really like that they were made in America. I also have Periodic Audios Mg & Be IEMs, also both attached cables on IEMs. Almost a deal breaker but they sound fantastic and also made in America.
It sort of is mind boggling that you have that crazy selection of headphones available and you choose to wear those grados. Almost as mind boggling as the price of these Hemps.
I own a pair of Grado Hemp and I couldn’t be happier. Yes improvements can be made, but I find the simplicity and the overall design, sturdy and durable. No head band adjustment required. I also own an old pair of SE80 for about 10 years, and I never had any problems with those ether: those are actually the only headphones I feel comfortable to throw in the backpack with no case or protection of any kind.
Yes the cable is heavy, and could be nice to hav it detachable for customization, but the cans are super comfortable for hours with the original pads (I will try the bigger one on your suggestion anyway). This are my n.1 cans to take on a stroll with the dog.... no other “audiophile” pair I own, are suitable for walking around town. Good job Grado!
Good Meeting ZEOS with Grado family...They deserve this rambling
It's interesting, none of the build issues z refers too would modify the heritage or style of Grado. The general build quality issues Z refers too is why I have never bought a grado headphone more expensive than the Sr80e. I just can't justify it, but wouod be happy to do so in the future if they had things like a detachable cable and stronger hinge mechanisms
Silent revision needs to happen. Detachable cable, and G cushions added.
Just got the 325x coming in soon. Hopefully they are just as good as the hemps.
YES, You NEED to go to Brooklyn, and, have a sit down with them, record it, post it, ..... VIOLA, .. content!!!!......
I actually love the cable, headband, and rod adjustment style.
There I said it.
Literally everything can stay looking exactly the same and be Detachable and better made. It would be tweaks.
@@ZReviews I get it, I do. But I also think maybe it's not a good thing to sic your audience on a family-owned business for something they've been doing for 70 some-odd years that is unlikely to change.
@@jafizzle95 Do you not understand what constructive criticism is?
@@zackalzar1 I do, actually. I never said Z was wrong. I stated my own opinion, then I said that maybe it's not a good thing to sic his audience on a family owned company.
If it helps, here is the definition of "sic":
1: CHASE, ATTACK -usually used as a command especially to a dog
//sic 'em
2: to incite or urge to an attack, pursuit, or harassment : SET
//sicced their lawyers on me
@@jafizzle95 Yes numb nuts i can read. One you are being overly dramatic about Z trying to "sic" his audience. Two you sound like a shill. Stop trying to defend companies like that they don't need it. Last he literally says for everyone to buy these in the video. I'm pretty sure the company will be happy about that
Agreed. Grado, detachable cable is mandatory. Can I get an Aye?
Aye
@@maxackerny7423 A month later, I finally got an aye! Lol
I had wanted the Hemps soon as they were announced (would be my first Grado). The old wire and headband killed it for me :/
Where’s a link to the Chinese ear pads?
The only attached wire I'm willing to accept in my collection is on the Koss ESP/95X. Other then that, nothing else in my collection has an attached wire, nor would I likely consider buying something more then $100 without a detachable wire.
I absolutely adore than entire meeting skit, it's so wonderfully to the point and entertaining whilst providing so much constructive feedback rather than just saying 'this and this suck, fix it somehow'. bravo Zeos
"In case you haven't checked the calendar, it's 2021..." lol
Personally believe that every review should be run in this format, public meetings are required to enable debate within the audiofile community. Also just raise the price to $690 and fix all the issues, thanks
Brilliant format for this review to get your, totally valid, points across. Chapeau.
Here is the HiFiGuides Post about this headphone. Showing the "mod" I had to do because the Yolk snapped. forum.hifiguides.com/t/grado-ltd-edition-hemp/14021/235
Grado, if my $20 IEMs can have a removable cable then you can too.
Grado, we love you dearly, this man can help you! Please listen to this experienced gentleman.
Valid points, never seen Z has that many valid points before🙅🏽♂️
I LOVE my RS1e Grado headphones and use them the most
Really like my RS1 also, but fantasize about connecting a Tripowin cable every time.
I sold all my Grados just because I couldn't deal with the cables anymore. The foam ear pads already were a compromise for me but the cables just became a deal breaker on the long term use of the headphones. Also just found out the GW100 and bought the V2 and its automatically my favourite pair of headphones. I really want the hemp for the sound that everyone keeps talking about, but I just can't pull the trigger on it. That cable... that f**** cable.
I had Sr60 and then 80s in the late nineties... I bought a pair of sennheiser hd580s in 2000 and haven't looked back. I loved the way the grados sounded then but the hd580s could be worn all day long without smashing your ears and sounded better, at least that's how I remember it. It has been a while lol...
Oh also the grados were falling apart ... the drivers would slide off the metal rods used for adjusting them. I still loved them though for the time and money!
Its the pad and the glue that makes the sound great. The bigger pad looses the balance of the bass. They don't work the same. They need ultra thin pads to deliver what you hear. lol
This is the most formal Zeos video I ever seen in my life
I was highly interested in buying some Grado headphones but this video has reminded me on why i haven't pulled the trigger yet. Grado you have so many people in this same position, you gotta do something guys...
I have GW100 and SR60e. I love the cable on the SR60e. I de-soldered it reinforced it with heat shrink so it doesn't rotate infinitely and I love how it feels.
Did you mod the GW100 with the replacement pads? How do they sound?
Yes, make a detachable cables. I have pulled on the cables so much because I forgot I'm wearing them. The left side is now like earpods trying to get the cable in the correct position so I can hear the music out of both sides. Might just be me but still make detachable cables!!!!!!!!
So glad I don't have any of these issues with my Sendy Aiva headphones that I bought two years from your recommendation. They are comfortable, sound great, have a great headband (with L and R logos) and most importantly have an amazing light weight and detachable cable
After watching the sound demo I was so ready to drop some money on these cans. Attached janky cable with shitty earpads completely turned me off. But you're absolutely right Z, they sound amazing. Hopefully they can update them based on your feedback.
Drawbacks aside, I absolutely adore my Grados. I don't care about the cable, I have no problem with the headband. I can't wait to try a better earpad because, yes, that is a problem.
Id honestly be less pissy about the whole thing if they just looped the cable in the box and not ZIG ZAG FOREVER LOL..
@@ZReviews Mine took forever to straighten, but it's pretty ok. I know John Chen and he told me not to change earpads, but I have to try something. I can't stand the fact that after an hour of wearing them my ears feel like I'm a college wrestler.
Those flat pads with the slits are based off the TTVJ pads, which are THE best Grado second market pads ever. And $50. The slits allow allow clarity while the flatness gives it bass. Theyre the BEST Grado pads and immediately take the harshness out of Grados. Google it. TTVJ Deluxe.
while I do see that and think maybe on previous models it was needed. Comfort is the #1 job of a pad. And these stock pads are a failure.
@@ZReviews yeah i think the TTVJ were especially good for models that needed it, and it seems that these are naturally tuned to be more buttery on their own (maybe the Hemp itself?). Geekria makes a Comfort Foam thats similar, and does work in tapping down thw treble spikes, but they do muddy that beautiful top end. The TTVJs cure that with the slits lettinf in that detail. The best after market Grado pads are the big ones you suggest. You nailed that. You da man Z.
I never had a problem with their attached cable!
Yeah me either. When you wear it it’s gonna be attached right? What’s the problem? Storing it?
I love the attached wire to the driver for minimal loss of audio quality
So Meze Empyrean and Abyss 1266 are worse off because you can unplug the connector. All of the ZMF line and new Stax too? Every SIngle Focal and Sennheiser.
@@ZReviews haha no Z. It was a tongue in cheek comment. Detachable cables for the win.
@@ZReviews Imagine getting whooshed by your own bit
I just bought the grado hemps partially based your and other reviews of the hemps. I agree with everything you have said about them. Yes you have screwed up grado nonsense BUT….. the sound is glorious ! Thanks for you reviews, keep ‘em coming
Z, the brand new X series supposedly has these Hemp drivers. Big if true. Check it out
I've been a Grado fan for years, two observations. The F pad is largely responsible for it's "non Grado" sound. The G cushion makes them much closer to say the RS2e. I've tried all of the pads you can get on my hemps, 325e and SR80, and they all follow the same patter. Second, they are NOT difficult to drive, my LG V30 drives them just as well as the other Grados. My Marantz HD DAC1 makes no difference which gain setting I use wrt sound quality. Personally, the cable is a non issue for me, but can understand why some folks get irritated by it.
Try them with an OTL tube, the result is delicious...
Instead of Grado, try Sennheiser
Doesn't the v30 already have a great dac? It's like the go-to phone for audiophiles.
Very valuable inputs from zeos and you just got a free consult grado. Your move.
your wallpapers never seize to disappoint
Just bought a pair and have my friend ship them to me in China. And copped the same foam pads in China for a little over 2 dollars.
bravo bravo love your Passion and Presentation Thanks to You im Proud Owner of Drop Panda 🐼
Finally I am on your side Zeos!
The first "modern" scientific calculator was the Hewlett-Packard HP-9100A, released in 1968. BTW: u need to review this:
Support jacket Bb + FIT WIDE L size SJW201061 from BIC camera in Japan
This review got me subscribed. I LOL`ed hard from this interiew
That was an excellent meeting, I foresee an offer letter for the head of Grado's headphone division incoming shortly
50 MINUTES? HOLY.... It's good
Have not seen those cuts either, but the Hemp pads look like those from the SR80s from early 2000s when I bought my pair.
Have had the pleasure of owning the Hemps for 2 days now. And Fuck I love them so much. Thank you for putting them on my radar. Bought 4 different pads to them because I expected the stock pads to be really shit since that is the general consensus, but for me I prefer both the sound and fit with stock pads. The first few songs I heard I got very nervous since I found them very thin sounding. A slight repositioning of the headphone however made them sparkle. The positioning with stock pads needs to be perfect if not they sound really bad. It is super fun to play around with all the pads so am happy I bought them. Probs gonna try to pad change again when I have run them for a few weeks to see if burn in changes anything. Thank you, again love your work.
Amen Brother. Tell it.
Until they modernize their product, the only use I see for Grado's is a prop in a 70s period film. There's no reason a product in that price range should be so out of date. I've seen thinner extension chords than the wire on those headphones. I don't see the point in buy a retro looking, wired, light-weight, open-back pair of headphone when you can buy KPH30i's for 7% of the price of Grado's (and seemingly have similar build quality)
70's headphones were better. And the Sennheisers back then had detachable cables.
I'd love to see you review RS2e's in comparison to the hemps. I 'll wish for it when I get the chance.
This review pretty much convinced me. I thought the extent of my questionable headphone purchases would be the Meze 99, but it’s time to buy some Hemp.
About time on these.
Dear John, Jonathan & Mathew from Grado. Thankyou so much for shipping such a lovely signed picture of yourselves with your latest Grado headphones. Its so wonderful that it completely distracts us from your shitty earpads, crappy headphone wires and headbands. Maybe it also distracts you from such words as progression, advancement and betterment
Anime wallpapers always on point!
After seeing Dankpodz praise these i had to see your opinion on these, glad to see that they are indeed as good as everyone says.
Anyone know where I can get my Grado Hemps cable modified?