Heritage Series

Grado GH2 Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

18–24 kHz

SPL 1mW:

99.8 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.05

Ear pads:

L Cushions (Bowl Pads)

Grado GH2 Headphones

The Grado GH2, released in 2017, is the second installment in Grado’s Heritage Series. Building on the legacy of the GH1, the GH2 features housings crafted from cocobolo wood, a material renowned for its stunning aesthetics and exceptional acoustic properties. With its striking design, limited availability, and signature Grado sound, the GH2 is a standout model that celebrates Grado’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The GH2 builds on the foundation of the Heritage Series, showcasing Grado’s ability to innovate while honoring its artisanal roots.

Cocobolo Wood: Known for its rich tonal qualities and distinctive appearance, cocobolo wood was chosen for the GH2’s housings to enhance both sound and design.
Limited Edition: Like its predecessor, the GH2 was produced in limited quantities, making it a highly sought-after model among collectors.
Part of the Heritage Series: The GH2 continued the Heritage Series’ mission of exploring unique materials to create exceptional sound and design.

The GH2 combines premium materials with Grado’s classic design language, creating a headphone that’s both functional and visually stunning.

Materials: Hand-crafted cocobolo wood housings, chosen for their tonal properties and striking grain patterns.
Headband: Vegan leather-covered metal band, providing durability and comfort for extended listening sessions.
Cable: Fixed braided Y-cable, designed for durability and minimal signal interference.

The lightweight construction and bowl-shaped L Cushions ensure a comfortable fit, making the GH2 as practical as it is beautiful.

The GH2 delivers a warm and engaging sound signature, enhanced by the natural acoustic properties of cocobolo wood.

Bass: Rich and controlled, with a satisfying depth that complements the mids and treble.
Mids: Smooth and forward, offering lifelike clarity and warmth for vocals and instruments.
Treble: Sparkling and detailed, with an airy quality that adds a sense of openness to the soundstage.
Soundstage: Wide and immersive, with excellent imaging and instrument separation that bring recordings to life.

The GH2 excels in genres like jazz, classical, and acoustic, where its tonal warmth and detail truly shine.

As a limited-edition wooden model, the GH2 is less commonly modded, though some enthusiasts may explore subtle upgrades.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads with G Cushions or Nyczaj Earpads to enhance comfort and soundstage.
- Re-cabling for detachable connectors or balanced setups, though preserving the original cocobolo housings is essential.

Collectibility and Reception

The GH2 is highly regarded among audiophiles and collectors for its unique materials, exceptional sound quality, and limited availability.

Community Reception:
- Praised for its warm and natural sound signature, the GH2 is often described as one of the most engaging models in Grado’s lineup.
- Listeners appreciated its distinctive cocobolo design, noting its visual and acoustic appeal.
Rarity:
- As a limited-edition model in the Heritage Series, the GH2 is highly collectible and continues to be a prized addition to many Grado collections.

The Grado GH2 exemplifies Grado’s ability to blend artisanal craftsmanship with innovative sound design. With its cocobolo wood housings, engaging sound signature, and limited-edition status, the GH2 is a standout model in Grado’s Heritage Series. Whether used for critical listening or as a cherished collectible, the GH2 is a headphone that celebrates the artistry and innovation of Grado Labs.