Grado Labs has introduced the HP100 SE to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its founder, Joseph Grado. This new model is a contemporary reinterpretation of the iconic design that established the high-end headphone market. John Grado, the current CEO and nephew of Joseph, remarked, “Uncle Joe will always be a part of Grado Labs, even years after he’s gone.”
These headphones feature a meticulously engineered sound profile paired with a sophisticated design. The HP100 SE is outfitted with advanced 52 mm drivers that deliver precise and harmonically rich sound reproduction, ensuring clarity in high frequencies, lush mids, and robust bass. The use of a composite paper cone, a magnet system crafted from rare earth alloys, and a lightweight copper-coated voice coil enables the HP100 SE to produce sound with remarkable dynamics and a profound spatial quality.
The newly designed aluminum casing, reminiscent of the original HP1/2/3 models and finished in a sleek space gray, now includes a detachable cable. This allows for versatile connectivity options, including standard 6.3 mm, 4-pin XLR, and 4.4 mm balanced jacks. The cable is constructed from a lightweight, soft material with a braided texture, enhancing flexibility while minimizing weight.
Additionally, the headband has undergone a significant redesign to enhance comfort, featuring increased padding and durable steel guides that ensure the headphones remain securely in place while reducing wear during adjustments.
Through these enhancements, the HP100 SE exemplifies Grado Labs’ dedication to innovation, honoring the legacy of Joseph Grado by adhering to his audiophile principles and high standards.
Grado Signature HP100 SE headphones feature:
- Emitter type: dynamic
- Operating principle: Open
- Frequency range: 3.5 Hz – 51.5 kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.1% at 100dB
- Sensitivity (SPL 1 mW): 117 dB
- Nominal impedance: 38 Ohm
- Driver size: 52mm
- Driver Coordination: 0.4 dB
- Cable type: 12-core detachable
- Headphone connector: 4-pin Mini XLR
- Source connector: 6.3mm
- Ear pad type: G-cushions
Price: $2495