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).
This time out, The Luxe Review podcast lends an ear to the latest developments in personal audio. Join our AI hosts as they recap TLR’s recent headphone coverage, including a review of Sony’s new WH-1000X flagship cans, and a literal paint swatch of new colourways from JBL and Technics… Anne: The team has been covering…
Campfire Audio has unveiled the Chimera, a new flagship in-ear monitor that combines four distinct driver technologies within a single design. Hand-built in Portland, Oregon, the luxury earphones bring together a dynamic driver, balanced armatures, electrostatic tweeters and, for the first time in a Campfire Audio product, a bone-conduction driver. The idea is to deliver…
The 1000X The Collexion is the most indulgent headphone yet from Sony. Crafted in celebration of its award-winning, and best-selling, WH-1000XM series, and marking a decade of the brand’s flagship wireless line, the 1000X has been created with the sole aim of delivering Sony’s most engaging headphone experience yet. But has it succeeded? Certainly, the…
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).
The Luxe Review Podcast: These new headphones are designed to turn heads
This time out, The Luxe Review podcast lends an ear to the latest developments in personal audio. Join our AI hosts as they recap TLR’s recent headphone coverage, including a review of Sony’s new WH-1000X flagship cans, and a literal paint swatch of new colourways from JBL and Technics… Anne: The team has been covering…
Campfire Audio unveils ultra-premium bone-conducting Chimera in-ear monitors
Campfire Audio has unveiled the Chimera, a new flagship in-ear monitor that combines four distinct driver technologies within a single design. Hand-built in Portland, Oregon, the luxury earphones bring together a dynamic driver, balanced armatures, electrostatic tweeters and, for the first time in a Campfire Audio product, a bone-conduction driver. The idea is to deliver…
Sony 1000X The Collexion headphone review: Luxurious comfort, premium styling, yacht rock sound
The 1000X The Collexion is the most indulgent headphone yet from Sony. Crafted in celebration of its award-winning, and best-selling, WH-1000XM series, and marking a decade of the brand’s flagship wireless line, the 1000X has been created with the sole aim of delivering Sony’s most engaging headphone experience yet. But has it succeeded? Certainly, the…
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