Let’s dive into this open-back, over-ear headphone that, true to Grado fashion, stands out in the audio industry. Grado marches to its own beat, focusing on what it deems crucial rather than chasing trends. The RS1x is a testament to this philosophy—familiar yet different, evolving within Grado’s unique methods. The RS1x embraces “less headphone, more driver” by incorporating a mix of Maple, Hemp, and Cocobolo woods, resulting in a smaller yet rigid housing. Inside, the X Series driver, enhanced magnetic circuit, and reduced mass promise improved response time. The design, with its distinctive metal gimbal and sliding pin on a thin headband, retains Grado’s characteristic simplicity.
Despite its reduction in size and mass, the RS1x maintains a solid feel, deviating from the common sleek and metallic designs. Grado’s focus on two drivers in free space delivers a listening experience unlike any other at its price point. Tonally natural, it handles voices and instruments with unshowy believability. The larger driver brings effortless heft, invigoratingly rapid response, and an impressive three-dimensionality to the sound.
The RS1x’s sensitivity makes it compatible with a range of headphone amps, though careful volume adjustment is advised. Grado’s mastery of tempo and timing ensures an engaging, emotional, and cerebral experience. The RS1x retains the essence of Grado’s unique sound while becoming more user-friendly.
Customer Reviews
I have been using the SR325x for mixing. I got the RS1x because I wanted to make sure that I am listening with the best headphones I could currently get. In my thinking it will lead to a better mix since I am hearing more details. I was also curious and was thinking if I will hear a difference.
Listening to the horn section in Ginga by Robson Jorge & Lincoln Olivetti the high end on the RS1x is smoother compared to the SR325x. The mid on the vocals on the song Jenny Wren by Paul McCartney sounded the same to me. The low end on the vocals is less noticeable on the RS1x.
The low end is more pronounced on the SR325x than the RS1x. The mix sounds more exciting with the SR325x with emphasized low end. So the RS1x gives you a more unbiased or objective way of listening compared to the SR325x.
The first time I used the SR325x on my mix it revealed details and flaws. The RS1x revealed a few more.
Now I use the RS1x for critical listening of my mix or songs I use as references. I use the SR325x to check if I have too much low end or too much high end on my mix.
I’m very happy with my new headphones. Incredible sound and very comfortable.
RS1x
With the RS1x I hear more detail than I ever heard before. For example, on a recording of classical flute and piano music, I heard the intake of breath by the flutist, something I never previously noticed was there. The sound is crystal clear and balanced across every range, and accomplishes the real goal of making me feel like I'm listening to the performers, not the phones or speakers.
no review.phones damaged