Grado Labs has introduced the Signature S950, the latest addition to its high-end Signature line of open-back headphones. Following the release of the HP100 SE, the S950 brings a mix of craftsmanship, upgraded audio components, and a modular cable system. Set to launch in March 2025 with a retail price of $2,195 (MSRP), this model is aimed at both audiophiles and professionals looking for a refined listening experience.
One of the first things that stands out about the Signature S950 is its handcrafted Brazilian Walnut ear cups. While the wood certainly adds to the design, it’s not just for looks. Walnut is dense and naturally stable, meaning it resists changes from temperature or humidity, keeping the acoustics consistent over time. Since no two pieces of wood grain are identical, every pair of S950s has its own unique visual character.
Despite its wooden build, the S950 is relatively lightweight at 395 grams, which should help reduce fatigue during extended listening sessions. The headband, originally introduced in the HP100 SE, has 50% more padding than older Grado models and uses a stainless-steel frame with adjustable height rods for a comfortable and secure fit.
At the heart of the S950 is Grado’s latest 52mm driver, an updated version of the one found in the HP100 SE. This driver includes a paper composite cone, a high-flux magnetic circuit made from rare earth alloys, and a copper-plated aluminum voice coil. Together, these components aim to improve sound dynamics, responsiveness, and spatial imaging.
Compared to the HP100 SE, which is known for its highly detailed and analytical sound, the S950 leans toward a more neutral and balanced tuning. The goal is to provide a smoother, more immersive experience while still delivering clarity and depth across different genres of music.
Grado has been embracing detachable cables in its Signature line, and the S950 continues that trend. It comes with the Grado Signature Gold cable, a 6-foot-long braided cable with a 6.35mm single-ended connection. The new cable design is meant to be more durable, flexible, and lighter than previous fixed-cable versions.
For listeners who prefer different setups, Grado will offer optional cables with 4-pin balanced XLR and 4.4mm balanced terminations, as well as different cable lengths. The 4-pin balanced mini-XLR connectors on the earcups make it easy to swap cables, giving users more flexibility in how they connect to their gear.
Beyond the materials and components, the Signature S950 is designed with long-term use in mind. The engraved aluminum alloy gimbals provide stability, and the stainless-steel height rods are engineered to stay securely in place. Grado has also limited the ear cup rotation to 105 degrees, which helps minimize stress on the structure over time.
Technical Specifications:
The Grado Signature S950 will be available in March 2025 for $2,195 (MSRP) in the U.S. and £2,495 in the UK. Until then, you can check out other Grado products at Crutchfield.
The Grado Signature S950, along with the Signature HP100 SE will be making its debut at the CanJam NYC show this Saturday and Sunday, Feb 22 & 23 at booth E11.
Both headphones models will also be on demo at Florida International Audio Expo, Feb 21 - 23, 2025 in Tampa Florida, in Moon Audio Room - Suite 350.
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