Grado
Grado Signature HP100 SE Special Edition Open-Back Headphones
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking expansive, high-fidelity sound.
The Grado Signature HP100 SE Special Edition headphones blend Grado's rich heritage with cutting-edge engineering. These open-back headphones deliver an expansive soundstage and exceptional clarity, thanks to newly engineered 52mm drivers. Experience refined highs, a smooth midrange, and dynamic bass with minimal distortion. Crafted with housings machined from treated aluminum in a sophisticated space grey finish, they offer both durability and style. Enjoy enhanced comfort with a redesigned headband featuring increased padding, and the flexibility of detachable cables for seamless connectivity.
$2495.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
767
/ 5702
#767 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+324%
Above average
Transducer Type
Dynamic
/ Dynamic
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing vocal texture and instrumental detail
- Listeners seeking an expansive and immersive spatial soundstage
- Collectors valuing heritage and limited-edition audio craftsmanship
Who should skip it
- Users requiring long-term comfort for extended listening sessions
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Listeners sensitive to bright or piercing high-frequency output
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Width
Open-back architecture creates an exceptionally immersive and expansive acoustic environment.
Driver Precision
Newly engineered 52mm drivers deliver remarkable clarity and minimal harmonic distortion.
Build Integrity
Treated aluminum housings provide a premium, durable feel with sophisticated aesthetics.
Wearable Comfort
Redesigned headband padding significantly improves long-term listening session ergonomics.
Frequency Range
Extensive 3.5Hz to 51.5kHz response captures every nuance of high-resolution audio.
Connectivity Versatility
Detachable 12-conductor cables offer modern flexibility for various audio setups.
Key Specs
Transducer Type
Dynamic
Operating Principle
Open Air
Frequency Response
3.5 Hz – 51.5kHz
THD
<0.1% @100 dB
Sensitivity
117 dB SPL 1mW
Nominal Impedance
38 ohms
Driver Size
52 mm
Driver Matched dB
0.4 dB
Features
- Newly engineered 52mm drivers for refined sound
- Open-back design for expansive soundstage
- Housings machined from treated aluminum
- Redesigned headband with increased padding
- Detachable cables for flexible connectivity
- Exceptional high-frequency resolution
- Hand-assembled in Brooklyn, USA
What customers say
These headphones offer exceptional sonic performance, praised for their energetic sound signature, speed, and breathtaking clarity. Vocals and instruments sound incredibly lifelike within a detailed, engaging presentation. A consistent point of concern is comfort; the ear pads may cause fatigue during extended listening periods. Despite this, customers consider the HP100 SE a worthwhile investment, valuing its rarity and historical significance for critical audio enjoyment. The core appeal centers on superior sound quality balanced against minor ergonomic drawbacks.
Know before you buy
The open-back design allows air to pass through the ear cups, which prevents pressure buildup and creates a wider, more natural soundstage. Because of this, sound will leak out, so these are best suited for quiet environments rather than public spaces or commutes.
The open-back design allows air to pass through the earcups, which prevents pressure buildup and creates a wider, more natural soundstage. Because of this, sound will leak out, so these are best suited for quiet environments rather than commuting or public spaces.
Yes, Grado has redesigned the headband with increased padding to better distribute weight across the head. Combined with the signature G-cushions, they are built to remain comfortable during extended periods of use.
Yes, Grado has redesigned the headband with increased padding to better distribute weight across the head. Combined with the signature G-cushions, they are built to remain comfortable during extended periods of use.
Yes, the HP100 SE features detachable cables that connect via a 4-pin Mini XLR jack on the headphones. This makes it easy to swap cables if you need a different length or if you simply want to replace them over time.
With an impedance of 38 ohms and a sensitivity of 117 dB, these headphones are relatively easy to drive. While they will work with most standard devices, using a high-quality dedicated DAC or amplifier will help you get the most out of the 52mm drivers.
Yes, the HP100 SE features detachable cables that connect via a 4-pin Mini XLR jack on the headphones. This makes it easy to swap cables if you need a different length or if you simply want to replace them over time.
With an impedance of 38 ohms and a sensitivity of 117 dB, these headphones are relatively easy to drive. While they will work with most standard devices, using a high-quality DAC or amplifier will help you get the most out of the 52mm drivers and their wide frequency response.
These headphones are crafted from treated aluminum, which provides a significant step up in both durability and acoustic resonance. The metal construction offers a premium, rigid feel that is built to last while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic.
The Signature HP100 SE utilizes newly engineered 52mm drivers that offer a wider frequency response and lower distortion compared to many of Grado's classic models. The build also features treated aluminum housings and a more refined, modern aesthetic.
The 52mm drivers are engineered for high-frequency resolution and low distortion. You can expect a balanced, detailed sound with refined highs, a clear midrange, and tight, controlled bass that stays accurate even at higher volumes.
These headphones do not feature active noise cancellation. Because they are an open-back design, they offer only passive noise isolation, meaning they will not block out ambient sounds from your surroundings.
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$2495