Lewis CaliburnGrado Labs has released its latest open-back headphone, the Signature S950. Building on the success of the recently released HP100 SE, the Signature S950 is the second headphone to become part of the brand’s new Signature line.
Staying true to Grado’s long standing tradition of using woods in crafting its headphone housings, this model utilises a Brazilian Walnut, the first time Grado has chosen this family of woods. Grado finds that different woods offer distinct sonic characteristics allowing this headphone its own sound signature which contrasts the more analytical, machined aluminum HP100 SE stablemate.
Grado states that it is concerned for the sustainability of our forests, and it is for this reason that only FSC Certified woods are used in the production of its headphone housings. Walnut, known for its density and resistance to decay, has been chosen for a relaxed musical presentation and stability. The lack of expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature or humidity helps maintain the acoustics characteristics.
Weighing in at 395 grams, the lightweight but durable nature of Brazilian Walnut is designed to offer a comfortable fit and reduced fatigue for long listening sessions. The wood grain on each individually crafted housing is never identical, bringing a special one-of-kind quality to each build.
Speaker design
The Signature S950 utilises a version of the new Grado 52mm S driver originally designed for the Signature HP100 SE. While developing this new 52mm driver, Grado aimed to create a speaker that delivers impressive high-frequency detail, a smooth midrange and powerful bass while maintaining minimal distortion.
To achieve this, a paper composite cone was selected, paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit made from rare earth alloys. The driver also features a lightweight copper-plated aluminum voice coil. Together, the advanced magnetic circuit and voice coil enhance dynamics and transient response while providing a sense of space, soundstage, detail and imaging.
While the Signature HP100 SE has been lauded by recording engineers and consumers around the world as detailed, revealing and accurate to the recorded piece, the Signature S950 has a more neutral and balanced sound.
Detachable cables
The Grado Signature line will continue to feature detachable cables. First introduced with the launch of the Signature HP100 SE, these new cables have been a welcome change to Grado headphones. The Signature S950 headphone will ship standard with the Grado Signature Gold cable, with a length of 6 feet and a 6.35mm single ended termination.
All new Grado cables have been redesigned with a softer more durable braided finish as well as an improved insulation that enhances flexibility while reducing overall weight.
The cable connects to each housing via a 4-pin balanced mini XLR plug. Future Grado detachable cables will be available with termination options, there will be a 4-pin balanced XLR termination and 4.4mm balanced termination, variable cable lengths will also be available. The detachable cables allow users to customise their headphones to best match their source and personal preferences.
Headband assembly design
The Signature S950 will utilise the new headband assembly that was first made available on the Signature HP100 SE. Built for long listening sessions, the updated headband includes 50% more padding than earlier Grado models.
It features a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods, allowing for a customised fit that helps reduce listening fatigue.
Grado Labs has crafted the engraved gimbals from an aluminum alloy, while the stainless-steel height rod adds stability at the connection point. The height rod is designed to remain secure to the junction block as well as restrict the housing rotation to 105 degrees, helping minimise wear over time.
The Grado Signature S950 is available in March, priced (MSRP): £2,495 / $2,195