If you’ve spent any time in the world of Grado headphones, you’ve probably heard about the SR80e. Nestled just above the entry-level SR60, the SR80e has earned its reputation as one of the best value-for-money models in Grado’s lineup. But is it worth the upgrade? Let’s dive into what makes the SR80e tick, where it excels, and where it might leave you wanting more.
Build and Comfort
Like most Grado headphones, the SR80e keeps things simple. The retro design is unmistakably Grado: lightweight plastic housings, a minimalist headband, and that classic open-back grille. If you’re a fan of old-school aesthetics, it’s charming. If you’re new to the brand, it might feel a little basic.
The stock headband is functional but could use more padding, especially for longer sessions. This is where an upgraded Grado headband comes in. Swapping it out for a padded aftermarket option (like the ones from Nyczaj Audio) can make a world of difference, especially if you’re planning to wear these for hours.
As for the Grado ear pads, the SR80e comes with the bowl-style L-Cush pads. They’re a step up in comfort and soundstage compared to the flat pads on the SR60, but they’re still not the softest option out there. Many owners, myself included, swap them out for memory foam or Nyczaj earpads, which improve comfort and can subtly tweak the sound.
Sound Performance
Here’s where the SR80e earns its stripes. The sound is classic Grado: forward, detailed, and engaging. Compared to the SR60, the SR80e has a wider soundstage and slightly more bass presence, making it feel more balanced overall. But does it capture the magic of its predecessor? Well, that depends on what you’re looking for.
Bass: The bass is tight and punchy, with enough weight to handle rock and electronic genres. It doesn’t extend super deep, but it’s satisfying for most tracks. Swapping the stock pads for thicker ones can give the bass a bit more oomph.
Mids: As always with Grado, the mids are the star of the show. Vocals and guitars shine with clarity and a lifelike presence that draws you in.
Treble: The highs are detailed and airy, but they can occasionally veer into sharp territory. For treble-sensitive listeners, this might be a bit much, but for others, it adds to the energy and excitement.
Compared to the SR60, the SR80e feels more refined but lacks the raw spark of its vintage sibling. Some describe the SR80e as smoother and more neutral, while others miss the edge and immediacy that made the SR60 so fun.
Strengths
Value for Money: At its price point, the SR80e is tough to beat. You’re getting detailed, spacious sound that punches well above its weight.
Modding Potential: The SR80e is a fantastic platform for Grado mods. Upgraded pads, headbands, or even gimbals can elevate its performance and comfort.
Versatility: The SR80e’s balanced sound makes it suitable for a wide range of genres, from rock to acoustic to jazz.
Weaknesses
Comfort: The stock L-Cush pads aren’t bad, but they’re not great either. Upgrading to softer Grado ear pads or cushions can make a big difference.
Treble Fatigue: The energetic highs might be too much for some listeners, especially on poorly mastered tracks.
Plastic Build: While lightweight, the plastic housings can feel a bit flimsy compared to higher-end Grados.
Custom Grado SR80e with Nyczaj Comfort headband and earpads
Modding the SR80e
One of the best things about Grado headphones is how mod-friendly they are, and the SR80e is no exception. Here are a few upgrades that can make this great headphone even better:
Nyczaj Earpads: Replacing the stock pads with memory foam earpads from Nyczaj Audio adds comfort and enhances bass response, making the SR80e more versatile.
Upgraded Headband: A padded headband not only improves comfort but also gives the SR80e a more premium look and feel.
Custom Gimbals: Swapping out the stock gimbals for CNC aluminum ones adds durability and style, especially if you plan to use these headphones daily.
Final Thoughts
The Grado SR80e is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive deeper into the world of Grado headphones. It’s detailed, spacious, and fun to listen to, with a balanced sound that works across a variety of genres. While it doesn’t have the raw energy of the vintage SR60, it’s a more refined package overall—and with a few mods, it can easily compete with much pricier headphones.
If you’re thinking about taking the plunge, consider upgrading your Grado ear pads, headband, or other parts to get the most out of these headphones. The SR80e is a fantastic platform for mods, and even small changes can make a big difference.
What’s your take on the SR80e? Share your thoughts, mods, and favorite tracks for testing in the comments—I’d love to hear what you think!
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