I recently had the pleasure of trying out the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones, and I’m excited to share my thoughts with you. These headphones are in the Electronics category and offer some impressive features.
Let’s start with the Pros:
- The 4th generation Grado tuned 44mm drivers deliver amazing sound quality and detail. I was blown away by the clarity and instrument separation.
- The upgraded braided cable is a nice touch, as it eliminates twisting and kinking. The 4 conductor super annealed copper wiring ensures a solid connection.
- The adjustable padded headband is a significant improvement compared to previous models. It’s made of a synthetic, vegan-friendly material and provides a comfortable fit.
- I was pleased to see that 4OurEars is the Exclusive Authorized US Amazon seller for these headphones. It adds a layer of reliability and assurance.
- The 1-year manufacturers warranty is a nice bonus, especially for sales within the United States. It’s good to know that the manufacturer stands behind their product.
Now, let’s move on to the Cons:
- The construction of the headphones, while retro-looking and lightweight, feels a bit flimsy. The glossy black plastic housing of the driver housings doesn’t inspire the same confidence as other more durable headphones.
- The on-ear foam pads, while decently comfortable, can become uncomfortable and create pressure points on the ears after extended use. It’s something to consider if you plan on using them for long listening sessions.
Overall, I have to say that the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles looking for a sub $300 option. The sound quality is truly stunning, with incredible detail and instrument separation. The lightweight design and adjustable headband add to the overall comfort.
If you’re a fan of genres with detailed mid and high notes, you’ll truly appreciate the soundstage and detail these headphones provide. However, if you’re someone who prefers a more bass-heavy experience, you might want to consider other options.
Considering the pros and cons, I believe these headphones offer incredible value for their price point. If you’re in the market for high-quality headphones without breaking the bank, I highly recommend giving the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series a try.
You can find more information about the product and purchase it here.
Unboxing – What’s Inside?
I recently purchased the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones from Amazon. Living in the USA, I decided to buy these headphones because of their highly acclaimed reputation for delivering exceptional audio quality. I was also drawn to their unique design and the promise of a comfortable listening experience. I ordered the headphones through the provided product link and opted for Amazon Prime’s fast delivery service, which ensured swift shipping and prompt arrival at my doorstep.
Upon opening the box, I discovered the following items:
- GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones
Specifications
Here are the specifications of the GRADO SR80x headphones:
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Form Factor: Over Ear
- Color: Black
- Model Name: Grado SR80x
- Brand: Grado
- Number Of Items: 1
- Units: 1 Count
- Item Weight: 240 Grams (8.5 ounces)
- Manufacturer: Grado Labs
- Date First Available: May 17, 2021
- Package Dimensions: 9.25 x 7.83 x 1.93 inches
User-Guide
The GRADO SR80x headphones come with a user guide that provides detailed instructions on how to set up and use the headphones effectively. This documentation was extremely helpful in familiarizing myself with the various features and controls of the headphones. It provided step-by-step guidance on how to connect the headphones, adjust the fit, and optimize the audio settings. If you want to explore the user guide, you can find it here.
Features – What We Found
- 4th generation Grado tuned 44mm drivers The GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones feature 4th generation Grado tuned 44mm drivers. These drivers have been specifically designed and tuned by Grado to deliver exceptional audio performance. With the 44mm drivers, you can expect a wide soundstage, accurate imaging, and detailed sound reproduction. Whether you’re listening to music or watching movies, these drivers ensure that you can enjoy a truly immersive audio experience. They accurately reproduce the subtle nuances and the full dynamic range of the original recording, bringing your music to life. Pro Tip: To maximize the performance of the 44mm drivers, make sure to use a high-quality audio source and matching amplification.
- Upgraded braided cable eliminates twisting and kinking The GRADO SR80x headphones come with an upgraded braided cable that eliminates twisting and kinking. This ensures a hassle-free listening experience as you won’t have to deal with untangling cables every time you want to use your headphones. The 4 conductor super annealed copper wiring used in the cable ensures optimal signal transmission and minimizes signal loss. This means that you can enjoy clear and distortion-free audio without any interference. With the upgraded braided cable, you can also expect enhanced durability. It is built to withstand everyday use and is less prone to wear and tear compared to regular cables. Check out the product here on Amazon.
- Upgraded adjustable padded headband made of synthetic, vegan-friendly material The SR80x headphones feature an upgraded adjustable padded headband made of synthetic, vegan-friendly material. This material not only provides a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions but also ensures that the headphones are suitable for individuals who prefer vegan products. The adjustable design allows you to customize the fit according to your head size and preference. The padded headband distributes the weight of the headphones evenly, reducing pressure points and ensuring long-lasting comfort. Whether you’re wearing the headphones for a short duration or extended periods, the synthetic padded headband provides a comfortable and snug fit.
- Exclusive Authorized US Amazon seller & 1-year manufacturers warranty for sales within the United States When purchasing the GRADO SR80x headphones from Amazon, it is important to note that 4OurEars is the exclusive authorized US seller. This ensures that you are purchasing a genuine product from an authorized source and can have peace of mind regarding the authenticity and quality of the headphones. Additionally, the headphones come with a 1-year manufacturers warranty for sales within the United States. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship and provides a level of protection for your investment. Pro Tip: Register your headphones on the manufacturer’s website to avail any additional warranty benefits and stay up-to-date with product updates and support.
- Easy to drive 38ohm impedance The GRADO SR80x headphones have an easy-to-drive 38ohm impedance. This means that they can be easily powered by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, without the need for additional amplification. You can enjoy high-quality audio even when connected to portable devices, making these headphones versatile and convenient for on-the-go listening. The low impedance also ensures that you can achieve optimal volume levels without straining or distorting the audio signal. Understanding the science of impedance can help you make informed decisions when choosing your audio source and amplification. It plays a significant role in determining the compatibility and performance of headphones.
Final Thoughts
Our Score: 89.0
I recently purchased the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones and I must say, I am absolutely stunned by their performance. I had been eyeing Grado headphones for a while and decided to give these a try. The packaging was simple yet elegant, and the headphones themselves are lightweight and comfortable to wear. The construction is decent, although the plastic parts make me a bit cautious about their durability.
When it comes to sound, these headphones deliver impeccable detail and instrument separation. I was hearing new details in my music that I hadn’t noticed before, even when compared to my more expensive headphones. The bass response, although not as strong as some other headphones, was still quite pleasant and well-tuned. The soundstage is also impressive, considering these are open back headphones with no noise isolation. However, the exceptionally detailed highs can be fatiguing after long listening sessions.
Comfort-wise, the lightweight design and padded headband make these headphones comfortable for extended wear. However, the on-ear foam pads can cause discomfort and pressure points on the ears after a couple of hours. Overall, despite some compromises in construction and comfort, I have never been more blown away by a pair of sub $300 headphones. I highly recommend giving the GRADO SR80x a try, especially if you’re new to enthusiast listening and want excellent sound without spending a fortune.
Best combination
If you’re considering purchasing the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones, I highly recommend considering the Geekria Shield Headphones Case as an additional purchase.
The Geekria Shield Headphones Case is specifically designed to fit and protect Grado SR325e, SR80, SR80e, SR80i, SR60, SR60i, SR60e, RS2, and RS1 headphones. The hard shell provides excellent protection against accidental drops, bumps, and scratches, keeping your headphones safe and secure.
One of the standout features of this case is its cable storage. The case has a specially designed compartment to neatly store and organize your headphone cables, preventing tangles and ensuring easy access whenever you need them.
By purchasing the Geekria Shield Headphones Case along with the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones, you can have peace of mind knowing that your headphones are protected during travel and storage. The case’s durable construction and cable management features make it a perfect companion for your high-quality headphones.
Investing in this alternate product will not only enhance the longevity of your headphones but also provide convenience and organization when you’re on the go. So, if you want to ensure the safety of your GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones, I highly recommend adding the Geekria Shield Headphones Case to your purchase.
Other Options To Go For
Are you searching for a high-quality pair of headphones that can deliver exceptional audio performance? Look no further! I present to you a selection of outstanding alternatives to the GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones.
1. GRADO SR80x Prestige Series Wired Open Back Stereo Headphones
The GRADO SR80x offers an impressive listening experience with its open-back design and accurate sound reproduction. However, if you’re looking for alternatives that provide a similar level of audio excellence, consider the following:
2. HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets Version
The HIFIMAN HE400SE is a planar magnetic headphone that boasts incredible sound clarity and a wide soundstage. It is perfect for audiophiles and studio professionals who desire precise sound reproduction.
3. GRADO GW100x Bluetooth Open-Back Wireless Headphones
If the convenience of wireless headphones is a priority for you, consider the GRADO GW100x. These Bluetooth headphones maintain GRADO’s renowned audio quality while providing the freedom to enjoy your music wirelessly.
4. HIFIMAN SUNDARA Over-Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic HiFi Stereo Headphones
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA is a premium option that offers exceptional sound reproduction and comfort. Its planar magnetic drivers deliver a detailed and immersive listening experience, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles.
5. HIFIMAN SUNDARA Hi-Fi Headphone with 3.5mm Connectors
Another alternative from HIFIMAN, the SUNDARA offers a comfortable fit and updated earpads for extended listening sessions. Its planar magnetic technology ensures accurate sound reproduction with improved clarity and detail.
These alternatives provide a range of options to suit your preferences and listening needs. Whether you prioritize wireless functionality, professional studio performance, or utmost comfort, these alternatives have got you covered.
So, why limit yourself to only one option when you can explore these exceptional alternatives? Each of these headphones offers impressive audio quality and unique features that cater to various listening preferences. Take your audio experience to new heights with one of these top-notch headphones!