Grado’s Signature S750 headphones deliver remarkable audio fidelity, but their build quality and comfort lag far behind the $1,650 price tag. These Brooklyn-made headphones prioritize sound above all else, offering a transparent and detailed listening experience, though at the cost of ergonomic refinement. The S750s are a niche product for audiophiles willing to sacrifice comfort for sonic purity.
Sonic Prowess
The S750s feature a newly designed 50mm dynamic driver with a paper-carbon fiber diaphragm and copper-plated aluminum voice coil. This results in a frequency response spanning 6 Hz to 46 kHz, providing an expansive tonal range. In practice, the headphones handle diverse music genres—from classical to electronic—with clarity and precision.
The “B” ear cushions distribute clamping pressure evenly, reducing fatigue while bringing the driver closer to the ear for improved sound isolation. The result is a spacious and focused soundstage where instruments and vocals are clearly delineated. Detail retrieval is exceptional across the frequency spectrum: deep, textured bass; crisp, uncolored highs; and a direct, articulate midrange.
The S750s excel in dynamic range, rendering subtle nuances and explosive crescendos with equal fidelity. The headphones contextualize musical information without sounding analytical, presenting a natural and engaging listening experience. If sonic accuracy is paramount, these headphones stand among the best available.
Austere Comfort and Build
Despite their impressive sound, the S750s suffer from several physical shortcomings. The aluminum earcups, while lightweight at 460g, lack refinement. Minimal articulation and excessive clamping force make these headphones uncomfortable even for average-sized heads. The meagerly padded headband adds to discomfort, with uneven stitching suggesting an imperfect fit.
The adjustable headband mechanism feels outdated, and the detachable cable is frustratingly short. Grado does not include balanced connection options, despite their high price point. The foam ear cushions, while contributing to sound quality, retain body heat and feel unluxurious.
These design choices suggest that Grado prioritizes sound over all else. The “hand-assembled in Brooklyn” ethos seems to extend to a no-frills approach that may not appeal to buyers accustomed to premium materials and ergonomics.
The Trade-Off
The Grado Signature S750 headphones represent a clear trade-off: exceptional sound quality in exchange for compromised comfort and build. They are ideal for audiophiles who prioritize sonic purity above all else, but may not satisfy those seeking a luxurious or well-rounded experience. These headphones are a stark reminder that price does not always equate to refinement; sometimes, it simply buys you the best sound possible, regardless of how it feels.
