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Writer's picturePrzemysław Nyczaj

The Best Amps for Grado Headphones

If you’re a fan of Grado headphones, you already know they sound fantastic straight out of the box. Their low impedance and high sensitivity mean you don’t need a fancy amp to enjoy them, but pairing them with the right amplifier can take things to the next level. Whether you’re looking for vintage charm or cutting-edge modern tech, the right amp can elevate your Grados in ways you didn’t think possible.


Grado GH2 headphones on a stack of amps and DACs
Grado GH2 headphones on a stack of amps and DACs - photo sent by Jonathan

Let’s dive into some of the best amps for Grado headphones, spanning both classic favorites and modern 2024 gems.


Why Use an Amp with Grado Headphones?

Grado headphones are known for their lively, forward sound with detailed mids and crisp highs. While they don’t require a powerful amp to shine, a good amp can bring out subtleties, tighten the bass, and smooth out any harshness in the treble. This is especially true if you’re using higher-end Grados like the RS1x or PS1000e, which can benefit from a cleaner, more refined signal.

For many enthusiasts, pairing their Grados with the right amp is also part of the fun of modding. It’s not just about power—it’s about synergy, and finding the amp that complements the Grado sound.


Vintage Amps: A Blast from the Past


  1. Marantz 1060 (Solid-State Integrated Amp):

    A classic from the 1970s, the Marantz 1060 delivers a warm, lush sound that pairs beautifully with Grado headphones. Its smooth treble and full-bodied mids make it a favorite for taming the brighter side of Grados, while the bass is tight and controlled.


  2. Fisher 400 (Tube Receiver):

    If you’re a fan of vintage tube amps, the Fisher 400 is hard to beat. Its rich, organic sound enhances the musicality of Grado headphones, particularly for genres like jazz and classical. The tube warmth adds depth to vocals and a touch of sweetness to the highs.


  3. Dynaco ST-35 (Tube Amp):

    Another vintage gem, the Dynaco ST-35 is compact but powerful. Its neutral yet dynamic presentation complements Grados without overpowering their natural sound. It’s also a great starting point for those new to tube amps.


Modern Amps for 2024


  1. Schiit Magni+ (Solid-State):

    Schiit’s amps have become staples in the audiophile community, and the Magni+ is no exception. This tiny yet powerful amp delivers a clean, transparent signal that works beautifully with Grados’ detailed mids and highs. Plus, it’s affordable, making it a great choice for those just starting to explore headphone amps.


  2. Topping A90 Discrete (Solid-State):

    The Topping A90 Discrete is all about precision. It offers an incredibly clean, distortion-free sound, allowing you to hear every nuance your Grado headphones have to offer. It pairs especially well with higher-end models like the RS1x or GS3000x.


  3. Feliks Audio Echo MkII (Tube Amp):

    A modern tube amp with a nod to vintage aesthetics, the Feliks Echo MkII adds warmth and depth to Grados without sacrificing clarity. It’s ideal for taming the treble on brighter models while bringing out the natural richness of the mids.


  4. Chord Mojo 2 (Portable DAC/Amp):

    For those who need something portable, the Chord Mojo 2 is a game-changer. Its built-in DAC and amp provide exceptional clarity and detail, and it has enough power to drive even the more demanding Grados. It’s a versatile option for both home and on-the-go listening.


  5. Woo Audio WA6 SE (Tube Amp):

    If you’re ready to invest in a high-end amp, the Woo Audio WA6 SE is a stunning choice. Its tube-driven design pairs beautifully with Grados, offering a wide soundstage, rich mids, and a smooth top end that takes the edge off brighter recordings.


What to Consider When Choosing an Amp


  1. Sound Signature:

    Grados are known for their forward mids and crisp highs, so amps that add warmth or smooth out treble can create great synergy. Tube amps, in particular, are popular for this reason.


  2. Power Needs:

    Most Grado headphones don’t require much power due to their low impedance, so a modest amp is usually enough. However, higher-end models like the GS3000x may benefit from amps with cleaner signals and better dynamic range.


  3. Budget and Portability:

    Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end piece of gear, there’s an amp for every need. If you travel often, a portable amp like the Chord Mojo 2 can make a lot of sense.


Pairing with Nyczaj Earpads

It’s worth mentioning that the choice of ear pads can also affect how your Grado headphones pair with an amp. Upgrading to Nyczaj earpads can add a touch more bass and depth, complementing the sound signature of amps like the Schiit Magni+ or Feliks Echo MkII. This combination can make your Grados even more versatile across different genres and listening setups.


Final Thoughts

The beauty of Grado headphones is their versatility—they sound great on their own but truly come alive when paired with the right amp. Whether you lean toward the vintage charm of a Fisher 400 or the modern precision of a Topping A90, there’s an amp out there that’s perfect for your setup.


What’s your favorite amp for Grado headphones? Are you a tube fanatic or a solid-state purist? Let’s discuss—it’s all part of the journey in finding the perfect synergy for your Grados and mods!

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