Reference Series

Grado RS1 Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

12–30 kHz

SPL 1mW:

98 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.05

Ear pads:

L Cushions (Bowl Pads)

Grado RS1 Headphones

The Grado RS1 marked the beginning of the Reference Series, offering audiophiles a premium listening experience with an emphasis on natural sound and craftsmanship. Introduced in the mid-1990s, the RS1 stood apart from the Prestige Series with its wooden housings, enhanced driver technology, and a more refined sound signature. With its rich tonal balance and striking design, the RS1 became a defining model for Grado Labs, solidifying its reputation among high-end audio enthusiasts.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The RS1 was designed to showcase Grado’s dedication to natural sound reproduction and artisan craftsmanship. As the flagship of the newly introduced Reference Series, it represented a significant leap in design and performance over the Prestige Series.

Wooden Housings: The RS1 was Grado’s first headphone to feature wooden housings, made from carefully selected mahogany to enhance resonance and tonal warmth.
Handcrafted in Brooklyn: Each RS1 was meticulously handcrafted in Grado’s Brooklyn factory, emphasizing attention to detail and quality.

Legacy: The RS1 has undergone several revisions, including the RS1i, RS1e, and RS1x, each refining its sound and design.

The RS1’s design reflects Grado’s commitment to both form and function, combining retro aesthetics with premium materials.

Materials: Precision-machined mahogany housings for natural resonance and reduced distortion.
Headband: Leather-covered metal band with light padding, providing adequate comfort for extended listening sessions.
Cable: Fixed Y-cable featuring UHPLC copper wiring, designed for optimal signal transmission and durability.

The wooden housings not only contribute to the RS1’s distinctive look but also enhance its acoustic properties, delivering a richer and more natural sound.

The RS1 is celebrated for its rich, natural sound, offering a significant step up in refinement and tonal balance compared to the Prestige Series. Its sound signature is warm and immersive, making it ideal for critical listening.

Bass: Deep and textured, with a natural warmth that enhances low-frequency instruments.
Mids: Lush and forward, delivering a lifelike representation of vocals and acoustic instruments.
Treble: Smooth and extended, with excellent detail and airiness that avoids harshness.
Soundstage: Wide and open, with precise imaging and a sense of depth that surpasses earlier Grado models.

The RS1’s sound signature is particularly well-suited for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic, where its natural tonality shines.

While the RS1 is already a high-performance headphone, its modular design makes it a candidate for light customization. However, due to its premium status and wooden construction, most modifications are focused on comfort and connectivity.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads for larger or softer options, such as G-Cush or Nyczaj Earpads, to enhance comfort and soundstage.
- Upgrading the headband for improved cushioning during extended sessions.

Re-cabling to accommodate balanced or detachable connectors, though this requires advanced skill and care to preserve the wooden housings.

Collectibility and Reception

The RS1 remains one of the most iconic models in Grado’s history, celebrated for its craftsmanship, sound quality, and historical significance.

Community Reception:
- Widely praised for its warm, natural sound and striking design, the RS1 has earned a loyal following among audiophiles.
- While later iterations have refined the formula, many enthusiasts still regard the original RS1 as a benchmark for high-end headphones.
Rarity:
- Early RS1 models with original mahogany housings and pristine condition are highly collectible, often commanding premium prices on the second-hand market.

The Grado RS1 stands as a masterpiece in the world of high-fidelity headphones, combining artisan craftsmanship with exceptional sound quality. Its place in Grado’s Reference Series cements its legacy as one of the most beloved and influential models in the company’s history.