Brooklyn-based Grado Labs, long synonymous with premium open-back headphones, has announced the Signature S950, every one of which is unique in its own way.
That’s because, unlike its Signature Series predecessor, the HP100 SE, which features precision-machined aluminium, the S950 utilises Brazilian Walnut for the first time, chosen for its unique sonic properties and natural aesthetic appeal.
The use of Brazilian Walnut by Grado brings warmth and depth to the headphone’s tonal balance, compared to the HP100 SE’s more analytical presentation, says the brand. Each pair of S950 headphones is unique, with naturally varying wood grains making every set a one-of-a-kind piece.
Weighing just 395 grams, the lightweight design certainly looks comfortable. Brazilian Walnut’s density is also said to help maintain consistent acoustic properties, as it’s unaffected by humidity or temperature fluctuations.
The S950 utilises Brazilian Walnut for the first time, chosen for its unique sonic properties and natural aesthetic appeal…
Explore the features of Grado’s Signature S950 headphones
At the heart of the Signature S950 is Grado’s newly refined 52mm S driver, originally developed for the HP100 SE. This dynamic driver is engineered to deliver an exceptionally balanced sound signature, with a broad frequency range able to deliver intricate details in high frequencies, a lush and natural midrange, and a powerful, controlled low end.
Apparently key to this performance is a paper composite cone, selected for its ability to minimise distortion while maintaining a natural timbre. Paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit constructed from rare earth alloys, the driver boasts superior transient response and enhanced clarity.
While the HP100 SE has been lauded for its precision and analytical nature, hence its appeal to recording engineers, the S950 takes a more relaxed approach, for a rich and immersive at-home listening experience.
The headband assembly has been upgraded with 50 per cent more padding, while a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods ensure a secure and ergonomic fit.
One of the more geeky features of the Signature series is Grado’s detachable cable system. The S950 ships with the Grado Signature Gold cable, a 6-foot braided cable with a 6.35mm single-ended termination.
Each ear cup connects via a 4-pin balanced mini XLR plug, allowing for future cable upgrades. Grado has announced plans to introduce additional cable options, including terminations for 4-pin balanced XLR and 4.4mm balanced outputs, providing audiophiles with greater versatility to match their preferred source equipment.
The Grado Signature S950 will debut at CanJam NYC, February 22-23, 2025, followed by a demonstration at the Florida International Audio Expo, February 21-23, 2025.
The headphones will be available in March from select retailers, priced at £2,495 ($2,195).
Brooklyn-based manufacturer Grado Labs has released a fourth addition to its acclaimed Signature headphone line. The Signature S550 arrives with an emphasis on musical warmth and long-session comfort, wrapped in distinctive Grado style. At the heart of the new Signature S550 is a 50mm dynamic driver, known internally as the S2. Rather than introducing an…
Sony has begun shipping the WF-1000XM6, the latest generation of its flagship true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. Evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the new model builds on a lineage that has become closely associated with premium design, advanced noise reduction and a focus on sound quality, shaped by professional studio expertise. A direct successor to the WF-1000XM5,…
Introducing Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2, the latest Bluetooth headphone from the iconic UK Hi-Fi marque. These updated flagship cans build on the foundations of the original Px8, introducing mechanical and acoustic improvements for a more stable fit and commensurately expressive sound. With high-res wireless codec support, advanced noise cancellation and luxury materials, this new…
The Luxe Review 
Brooklyn-based Grado Labs, long synonymous with premium open-back headphones, has announced the Signature S950, every one of which is unique in its own way.
That’s because, unlike its Signature Series predecessor, the HP100 SE, which features precision-machined aluminium, the S950 utilises Brazilian Walnut for the first time, chosen for its unique sonic properties and natural aesthetic appeal.
The use of Brazilian Walnut by Grado brings warmth and depth to the headphone’s tonal balance, compared to the HP100 SE’s more analytical presentation, says the brand. Each pair of S950 headphones is unique, with naturally varying wood grains making every set a one-of-a-kind piece.
Weighing just 395 grams, the lightweight design certainly looks comfortable. Brazilian Walnut’s density is also said to help maintain consistent acoustic properties, as it’s unaffected by humidity or temperature fluctuations.
Explore the features of Grado’s Signature S950 headphones
At the heart of the Signature S950 is Grado’s newly refined 52mm S driver, originally developed for the HP100 SE. This dynamic driver is engineered to deliver an exceptionally balanced sound signature, with a broad frequency range able to deliver intricate details in high frequencies, a lush and natural midrange, and a powerful, controlled low end.
Apparently key to this performance is a paper composite cone, selected for its ability to minimise distortion while maintaining a natural timbre. Paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit constructed from rare earth alloys, the driver boasts superior transient response and enhanced clarity.
While the HP100 SE has been lauded for its precision and analytical nature, hence its appeal to recording engineers, the S950 takes a more relaxed approach, for a rich and immersive at-home listening experience.
The headband assembly has been upgraded with 50 per cent more padding, while a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods ensure a secure and ergonomic fit.
One of the more geeky features of the Signature series is Grado’s detachable cable system. The S950 ships with the Grado Signature Gold cable, a 6-foot braided cable with a 6.35mm single-ended termination.
Each ear cup connects via a 4-pin balanced mini XLR plug, allowing for future cable upgrades. Grado has announced plans to introduce additional cable options, including terminations for 4-pin balanced XLR and 4.4mm balanced outputs, providing audiophiles with greater versatility to match their preferred source equipment.
The Grado Signature S950 will debut at CanJam NYC, February 22-23, 2025, followed by a demonstration at the Florida International Audio Expo, February 21-23, 2025.
The headphones will be available in March from select retailers, priced at £2,495 ($2,195).
Grado Signature S550 open-back headphones boast big drivers and Brazilian Walnut housing
Brooklyn-based manufacturer Grado Labs has released a fourth addition to its acclaimed Signature headphone line. The Signature S550 arrives with an emphasis on musical warmth and long-session comfort, wrapped in distinctive Grado style. At the heart of the new Signature S550 is a 50mm dynamic driver, known internally as the S2. Rather than introducing an…
Enhanced noise cancelling and fresh design distinguish studio-tuned Sony WF-1000XM6 earbuds
Sony has begun shipping the WF-1000XM6, the latest generation of its flagship true wireless noise-cancelling earbuds. Evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the new model builds on a lineage that has become closely associated with premium design, advanced noise reduction and a focus on sound quality, shaped by professional studio expertise. A direct successor to the WF-1000XM5,…
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 review: new headphone flagship offers bigger sound, gorgeous design
Introducing Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2, the latest Bluetooth headphone from the iconic UK Hi-Fi marque. These updated flagship cans build on the foundations of the original Px8, introducing mechanical and acoustic improvements for a more stable fit and commensurately expressive sound. With high-res wireless codec support, advanced noise cancellation and luxury materials, this new…
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