Prestige Series

Grado SR200 headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

?

SPL 1mW:

?

Nominal impedance:

?

Driver Matched dB:

?

Ear pads:

Flat Cushions

Grado SR200 headphones

The Grado SR200 was a pivotal model in the early days of the Prestige Series, offering a step up in sound quality and build compared to its predecessor, the SR100. Released in the 1990s, the SR200 quickly became a favorite among audiophiles for its refined sound and compatibility with the growing trend of headphone modding. While it shares many design elements with the SR100, the SR200 offered noticeable improvements, solidifying its place as an essential part of Grado’s early history.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The SR200 was introduced as part of Grado’s effort to refine their affordable yet high-quality headphone lineup. It carried over many design cues from the SR100 but included subtle improvements in driver matching and tuning, resulting in a more balanced sound signature.

Early SR200 units are believed to have used repurposed HP1000 drivers, making them highly sought after by collectors.
This model was entirely handcrafted in Brooklyn, New York, staying true to Grado’s ethos of in-house production.
The SR200 served as a bridge between the entry-level SR100 and the more advanced models that followed, such as the SR300.

The SR200 maintained the utilitarian design of its predecessor while incorporating small refinements to enhance durability and comfort.

Materials: Plastic housings with a matte finish, metal gimbals, and a reinforced Y-cable.
Headband: Leatherette band with slight improvements in padding over the SR100.
Cable: A thick, fixed cable with a 1/4-inch jack, durable but prone to stiffness.

The build quality reflects Grado’s focus on function over form, but the lightweight construction made the SR200 a comfortable choice for long listening sessions.

The SR200 is widely regarded as one of the best-sounding models in Grado’s early Prestige Series. Its sound signature was more refined than the SR100, offering a balance of energy and precision.

Bass: Tight and controlled, with slightly more presence than the SR100.
Mids: Smooth and natural, excelling in vocals and acoustic instruments.
Treble: Crisp and detailed, though less fatiguing compared to the SR100.
Soundstage: A touch more expansive than the SR100, with improved imaging and instrument separation.

The SR200’s sound made it a versatile choice for a wide range of genres, from rock and indie to classical and jazz.

As with many early Grado models, the SR200 is a favorite among modders due to its simple construction and compatibility with a variety of aftermarket parts.

Common Mods:

Replacing ear pads with G-Cush or Nyczaj Earpads to enhance comfort and expand the soundstage.

Upgrading the headband for better cushioning during long sessions.

Re-cabling to improve flexibility and reduce tangling. Experimenting with acoustic dampening to tweak the treble response.

Collectibility and Reception

The SR200 has achieved near-legendary status among Grado enthusiasts, particularly because of its rumored use of leftover HP1000 drivers in early production runs. This connection to Grado’s flagship model makes the SR200 a prized collectible.

Community Reception:

Praised for its refined sound and excellent value at the time of release, the SR200 remains a favorite for its balance of affordability and performance.
While modern Grado models offer more technical precision, the SR200’s warm, engaging sound continues to captivate listeners.

Rarity:

The SR200 is rarer than the SR100, with unmodified units in good condition fetching high prices on the second-hand market. Closing Text The Grado SR200 is a standout in Grado’s early lineup, offering a refined and versatile sound that still holds its own today. Its place in Grado’s history, combined with its collectibility and modding potential, makes it an enduring favorite among audiophiles and enthusiasts.

The Grado SR200 is a standout in Grado’s early lineup, offering a refined and versatile sound that still holds its own today. Its place in Grado’s history, combined with its collectibility and modding potential, makes it an enduring favorite among audiophiles and enthusiasts.