Reference Series

Grado RS1e Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

12–30 kHz

SPL 1mW:

99.8 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.05

Ear pads:

L Cushions (Bowl Pads)

Grado RS1e Headphones

The Grado RS1e, introduced in 2014, was the flagship model of the Reference Series “e” generation. Renowned for its luxurious craftsmanship and expansive soundstage, the RS1e continued Grado’s tradition of blending artisanal quality with high-fidelity performance. Handcrafted from premium mahogany and designed for audiophiles seeking warmth, detail, and immersion, the RS1e represented the pinnacle of Grado’s Reference Series until it was succeeded by the RS1x in 2022.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The RS1e built upon the legacy of its predecessors, the original RS1 and RS1i, with enhancements that refined its sound and durability.

"e" Series Improvements: The RS1e featured upgraded drivers, a thicker cable, and slightly redesigned mahogany housings for improved acoustic performance and resonance control.
Flagship Status: As the top model in the Reference Series, the RS1e was celebrated for its detailed and engaging sound signature, making it a favorite for critical listening.
Legacy: The RS1e maintained its position as a high-end audiophile favorite until the introduction of the RS1x in 2022, which brought further advancements to the Reference Series.

The RS1e showcases Grado’s commitment to craftsmanship and premium materials, resulting in a headphone that is both beautiful and functional.

Materials: Handcrafted mahogany housings, carefully tuned to enhance resonance and tonal warmth.
Headband: Leather-covered metal band, offering flexibility and moderate comfort for extended listening sessions.
Cable: Thicker fixed Y-cable with UHPLC copper wiring, ensuring durability and optimal signal transmission.

The RS1e’s lightweight construction and minimalist design make it a visually striking and comfortable headphone, though some users may find the headband padding minimal for long sessions.

The RS1e delivers an immersive and detailed sound signature, excelling in warmth, tonal balance, and imaging.

Bass: Deep, controlled, and textured, providing a strong foundation without overshadowing other frequencies.
Mids: Forward and lush, with exceptional clarity that brings vocals and acoustic instruments to life.
Treble: Extended and smooth, offering detail and airiness without harshness.
Soundstage: Expansive and three-dimensional, with precise imaging and separation that excel in genres like classical, jazz, and live recordings.

The RS1e’s sound signature is tailored for audiophiles who value natural tonality and an engaging listening experience.

While the RS1e’s design is already optimized for high performance, it remains popular among modding enthusiasts for customizations that enhance comfort or functionality.

Common Mods:
- Replacing ear pads with G-Cush or Nyczaj Earpads to improve comfort and expand the soundstage.
- Upgrading the headband for additional padding, especially for extended listening sessions.
- Re-cabling to add detachable connectors or enable balanced audio setups, though this requires careful handling to preserve the wooden housings.

Collectibility and Reception

The RS1e is widely regarded as one of Grado’s finest creations, earning praise for its luxurious design and exceptional performance.

Community Reception:
- Celebrated for its expansive soundstage and tonal accuracy, the RS1e was often recommended as a reference model for critical listening.
- Some listeners preferred the slightly more intimate presentation of the RS2e, but the RS1e’s overall performance and craftsmanship were universally praised.
Rarity:
- The RS1e remains highly sought after by collectors and audiophiles, with pristine units becoming increasingly desirable on the second-hand market.

The Grado RS1e stands as a testament to Grado’s ability to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern performance. As the flagship of the Reference Series “e” generation, it delivers an immersive and natural listening experience that appeals to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Whether used for critical listening or as part of a high-end collection, the RS1e continues to be a shining example of Grado’s legacy of excellence.