Grado
Grado RS1x
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking natural, detailed acoustic sound.
Immerse yourself in exceptional audio with the Grado RS1x Reference Headphones. These over-ear, open-back headphones boast a unique tri-wood housing, blending maple, hemp, and cocobolo for a warm, dynamic, and rich tonal balance. Featuring newly developed 50mm X Drivers, they deliver enhanced efficiency, reduced distortion, and remarkable preservation of musical detail. The hand-built craftsmanship from Brooklyn ensures a premium listening experience, perfect for audiophiles seeking unparalleled fidelity and a spacious, natural soundstage.
$750.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
357
/ 5742
#357 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+28%
Above average
Transducer type
Dynamic
/ Dynamic
Who it's for
- Listeners seeking an intimate and lively acoustic performance
- Design enthusiasts who appreciate artisanal, retro-inspired craftsmanship
- Casual listeners wanting high-quality sound without expensive dedicated amplifiers
Who should skip it
- Users planning for long, multi-hour listening sessions
- Audiophiles who prefer a balanced, neutral, or warmer sound profile
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Width
Open-back design creates an expansive, airy environment for complex musical arrangements.
Tonal Warmth
Tri-wood housing delivers a rich, organic signature with exceptional harmonic depth.
Driver Precision
Matched 50mm X Drivers ensure pinpoint imaging and remarkable signal integrity.
Build Craftsmanship
Hand-assembled Brooklyn construction offers a premium, artisanal feel throughout.
Frequency Extension
Broad 12Hz to 30kHz range captures subtle textures across the entire spectrum.
Comfort Ergonomics
Classic design prioritizes audio performance over long-term plush, lightweight wearability.
Key Specs
Transducer type
Dynamic
Operating principle
Open air
Frequency Response
12Hz - 30,000Hz
SPL 1mW
99.8dB
Nominal Impedance
38 ohms
Driver matched db
0.05dB
Driver Size
50mm
Housing Material
Maple, Hemp, Cocobolo
Features
- Unique tri-wood housing for rich tonal balance
- Newly developed 50mm X Drivers for superior clarity
- Open-air design for a spacious soundstage
- Hand-assembled in Brooklyn for premium quality
- Comfortable black leather headband with white stitching
- High-resolution audio support
- 8-conductor cable for enhanced signal integrity
- Drivers matched to within 0.05db for precision
What customers say
Reviewers consistently highlight the RS1x's vibrant and detailed sound, particularly praising its engaging midrange performance. The handcrafted wooden construction is a significant aesthetic feature, offering a premium, classic look. While the sound quality is universally acclaimed, comfort is noted as a potential drawback; the lightweight frame is appreciated, but some users experience fatigue during long listening sessions. Ultimately, this headphone appeals strongly to dedicated audiophiles who prioritize exceptional sonic delivery and unique craftsmanship above all else.
Know before you buy
The combination of maple, hemp, and cocobolo is engineered to balance the acoustic properties of each wood. This results in a warm, dynamic, and rich tonal signature that is distinct from the single-material housings found in other Grado models.
No. Because these are open-back headphones, they do not block out ambient noise and will leak sound to those around you. They are best suited for quiet, private listening environments where you can fully appreciate the spacious soundstage.
With an impedance of 38 ohms and high sensitivity, these headphones are relatively easy to drive. While they can be powered by many portable devices, using a high-quality dedicated amplifier will help you get the most out of the 50mm X Drivers and ensure optimal signal integrity.
The open-air design allows air to move freely through the ear cups, which prevents pressure buildup and creates a wider, more natural soundstage. This makes the music feel less 'in your head' and more like a live performance.
Driver matching ensures that the left and right channels produce sound with near-identical volume and frequency response. This precision is critical for accurate stereo imaging and a stable, centered soundstage.
The RS1x features a lightweight build and a padded leather headband designed for comfort. However, as an over-ear model, the fit is subjective, and the open-back design is intended for relaxed, stationary listening rather than active use.
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