If the HP1000 series laid the foundation for Grado headphones, then the 1990s and early 2000s were when Grado Labs truly came into their own. Under the leadership of John Grado, the company expanded its lineup and refined its sound signature, creating some of the most beloved models in the audiophile world. This chapter of Grado’s history is all about evolution—building on Joseph Grado’s vision while embracing new materials, designs, and philosophies that would define the brand for decades.
The Rise of the Reference Series
In 1994, Grado introduced the Reference Series, a bold step into the world of premium headphones. The flagship RS1 and its sibling, the RS2, were made from hand-crafted mahogany—a material chosen not just for its aesthetic appeal but for its unique acoustic properties. These were headphones designed to sound as good as they looked.
RS1: The RS1 set the standard for the Reference Series, offering lush mids, smooth highs, and a natural warmth that made it perfect for acoustic and classical music. The mahogany cups didn’t just enhance the sound—they gave each pair a unique character, as no two pieces of wood are exactly alike.
RS2: A slightly more affordable option, the RS2 shared much of the RS1’s DNA but had a slightly leaner, more direct sound.
The Reference Series marked a turning point for Grado headphones, emphasizing not just performance but also craftsmanship and design. It was during this time that Grado truly began to embrace the idea of headphones as both tools for listening and objects of beauty.
The Professional Series: Precision for the Pros
While the Reference Series was aimed at audiophiles, the Professional Series catered to studio professionals who demanded accuracy and reliability. The PS1 and later the PS1000 were heavyweight contenders—both literally and figuratively.
PS1: Released as a limited edition, the PS1 was built with a metal housing that provided a precise, uncolored sound. Its bass response was particularly noteworthy, making it a favorite among producers and engineers working in bass-heavy genres.
PS1000: Introduced in 2009, the PS1000 combined a metal housing with a wooden core, balancing the precision of the Professional Series with the warmth of the Reference Series. This hybrid design delivered one of the most expansive soundstages ever heard in a pair of Grado headphones.
The Professional Series showed that Grado wasn’t afraid to experiment, combining different materials and pushing the boundaries of what their headphones could achieve.
The Prestige Series Gets a Refresh
While Grado was expanding its high-end offerings, the Prestige Series remained the heart and soul of the brand. Models like the SR60, SR80, and SR125 continued to introduce new listeners to the world of Grado, but John Grado didn’t let these staples stagnate. Over the years, they received subtle but meaningful updates, evolving alongside the brand.
In the mid-2000s, Grado introduced the "i" series, which improved driver matching and slightly refined the sound. For example:
The SR60i and SR80i gained a touch of bass extension and smoother treble.
The SR325i was re-engineered with a metal housing, giving it greater precision and a brighter sound.
Each iteration maintained the core characteristics of Grado headphones—engaging mids, detailed highs, and an airy soundstage—while tweaking and refining the formula for modern listeners.
Limited Editions and Experiments
Grado has always had a knack for creating buzz with its limited-edition releases, and this period was no exception. Two standout examples include:
Grado HF-1 and HF-2: These headphones were designed in collaboration with the Head-Fi community and sold exclusively through the forum. They combined elements of the Prestige and Reference Series, offering a rich, warm sound at a relatively affordable price.
HP1000 Revisited: In 2000, Grado briefly revived the HP1000 series, releasing a small number of new units. These were snapped up almost immediately, further cementing the HP1000’s legendary status.
These limited editions weren’t just collector’s items—they were statements of Grado’s commitment to its fans and the broader headphone community.
Materials That Shaped the Sound
One of the most fascinating aspects of Grado’s evolution is its exploration of materials. From the mahogany cups of the Reference Series to the aluminum bodies of the Professional Series, each choice wasn’t just aesthetic—it was acoustic. Even the ear pads played a significant role in shaping the sound.
Flat Pads vs. Bowl Pads: Early Grado headphones used flat pads, which emphasized bass and mids. The introduction of bowl pads in the Prestige Series added airiness and treble clarity, creating a more open soundstage.
Wood and Metal: The transition from all-metal housings to hybrids like the PS1000 demonstrated Grado’s ability to balance precision with warmth, creating a sound that was both accurate and musical.
This constant experimentation with materials and design kept Grado headphones at the cutting edge of audio technology, even as the company stayed true to its old-school roots.
The Community’s Role
Grado’s success during this era wasn’t just about the products—it was about the people who loved them. Enthusiasts flocked to forums to share reviews, modifications, and even restoration projects for vintage models like the HP1000. The modding culture flourished, with users swapping out ear pads, headbands, and even cables to fine-tune their headphones.
Grado embraced this DIY spirit, understanding that their headphones weren’t just tools—they were platforms for personal expression. This symbiotic relationship between the company and its fans created a culture that remains one of the most vibrant in the audiophile world.
Looking Ahead
By the end of the 2000s, Grado had firmly established itself as a leader in both the audiophile and professional markets. With models like the RS1 and PS1000 pushing boundaries and the Prestige Series introducing new listeners to high-fidelity sound, the company was poised for even greater innovations.
In the next chapter, we’ll explore Grado’s journey into the 2010s, including the introduction of the "e" and "x" series, the rise of limited editions like the GH2, and the brand’s continued evolution in the face of a changing audio landscape. Stay tuned for Part 3—it’s going to be a good one!
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