Grado Labs has unveiled the Signature S950. Building on the success of the HP100 SE, the Signature S950 marks a significant addition to Grado’s new Signature line. This model stands out not only for its acoustics but also for its unique craftsmanship, featuring a Brazilian Walnut housing that enhances its sonic characteristics.
A Commitment to Craftsmanship
Staying true to Grado’s tradition of using wood in headphone construction, the Signature S950 is the first model to incorporate Brazilian Walnut. This choice is deliberate, as different types of wood impart distinct sonic qualities. The Brazilian Walnut housing provides a sound signature that contrasts with the more analytical sound profile of its aluminum counterpart, the HP100 SE.
In addition to its impressive sound, the lightweight yet durable design of the Signature S950, weighing in at just 395 grams, ensures comfort during extended listening sessions. Each housing is individually crafted, making every pair of headphones one-of-a-kind. The density and decay-resistant properties of walnut contribute to a relaxed musical presentation, while its stability helps maintain the headphone’s acoustical characteristics despite changes in environmental conditions. Moreover, Grado’s commitment to sustainability ensures that the Brazilian Walnut sourced from the Amazon rainforest is harvested responsibly, protecting the local ecosystem.
Innovative Driver Design
At the heart of the Signature S950 is a new version of Grado’s 52mm S driver, initially designed for the award-winning Signature HP100 SE. The goal behind developing this driver was to create a speaker capable of delivering exceptional high-frequency detail, a smooth midrange, and powerful bass—all while minimizing distortion.
To achieve this, Grado selected a paper composite cone paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit made from rare earth alloys. Additionally, the lightweight copper-plated aluminum voice coil enhances the headphone’s dynamics and transient response, providing a refined sense of space, detail, and imaging. While the HP100 SE is celebrated for its detail and accuracy, the Signature S950 offers a more neutral and balanced sound, allowing listeners to gain a personal insight into the music being played.
Comfort Redefined: The New Headband Assembly
The Signature S950 features an updated headband assembly first introduced with the HP100 SE. Designed for prolonged listening sessions, the new headband includes 50% more padding than previous models, ensuring maximum comfort. It consists of a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods, allowing for a customized fit that minimizes listening fatigue.
The gimbals are crafted from an aluminum alloy, while the stainless-steel height rod provides stability. This design ensures the height rod remains securely in place and restricts housing rotation to 105 degrees, helping to minimize wear over time.
Detachable Cables for Customization
Continuing the trend established with the Signature HP100 SE, the Signature S950 comes equipped with detachable cables. This feature allows users to customize their headphones to match their audio sources and personal preferences. The standard configuration includes the Grado Signature Gold cable, which is 6 feet long with a 6.35mm single-ended termination.
Grado has redesigned its cables to feature a softer and more durable braided finish, enhancing flexibility while reducing weight. The connection to each housing employs a 4-pin balanced mini XLR plug, and future cable options will include different terminations—such as 4-pin balanced XLR and 4.4mm balanced—as well as variable lengths.
Hand Assembled in Brooklyn
Founded in 1953, Grado Labs has been dedicated to perfecting the art of sonic reproduction for over 70 years. Each Signature S950 headphone is meticulously crafted by hand in Brooklyn, New York. From the initial design to the final assembly, every pair of headphones represents decades of expertise and passion for audio quality. With the Signature S950, Grado Labs continues its tradition of delivering exceptional sound in beautifully crafted products, ready to provide an unparalleled listening experience.
Experience the harmony of craftsmanship and advanced audio technology with Grado’s Signature S950 headphones—where premium sound meets artisanal quality.
