Grado Labs, a designer and manufacturer of headphones, and other home audio components, has announced the release of its latest open-back headphone: the Signature S950. The company says that its latest headphones build on the success of the recently released HP100 SE.
The Signature S950 is the second headphone to become part of the new Signature line, and the audiophile company says the new headphones are lightweight but durable—and Grado emphasizes the Signature S950 headphones are crafted from Brazilian Walnut. Weighing only 395 grams (13.9 ounces), the headphones are said to offer a comfortable fit and reduced fatigue for long listening sessions. A key aesthetic, according to the company, is the wood grain of each S950 housing that is individually made and through this, they never look identical to bring a one-of-kind quality to each build.
Grado elaborates on its use of walnut by pointing out the wood is known for its density and resistance to decay, and it says it chose the material for a relaxed musical presentation and stability. The lack of expansion and contraction of the wood due to changes in temperature or humidity, the company continues, helps maintain these acoustical characteristics. Brazilian Walnut is grown in the tropical rain forests of the Amazon, and sustainable practices help protect the ecosystems in the area.
Grado Signature S950 Headphones Balance Performance and Comfort
The Grado Signature S950 utilizes a version of the new Grado 52mm S driver originally designed for the Signature HP100 SE headphones. While developing this new 52mm- (2-inch) driver, Grado points out that it aimed to create a speaker that delivers exceptional high-frequency detail, a smooth midrange, and powerful bass while maintaining minimal distortion to help ensure a musically and harmonically accurate sound.
To achieve these performance attributes, Grado notes the headphones utilize a paper composite cone that was paired with a high-flux magnetic circuit made from rare earth alloys. The driver also features a lightweight copper-plated aluminum voice coil. Together, the advanced magnetic circuit and voice coil enhance dynamics and transient response while providing what Grado says is a refined sense of space, soundstage, detail and imaging.
Grado suggests that while the Signature HP100 SE has been lauded by recording engineers and consumers around the world as detailed, revealing and accurate to the recorded piece, characterizing the sound of the Signature S950, Grado says these headphones have a more neutral and balanced sound, providing a broad brushstroke to the musical presentation—a presentation that allows the listener to experience a relaxed personal insight to what the music is communicating.
Grado Headphones Don’t Skimp on User Convenience and Comfort
The Grado Signature line will continue to feature detachable cables. First introduced with the launch of the Signature HP100 SE, these new cables the company states, are a change for Grado headphones. The Signature S950 headphone will ship standard with the Grado Signature Gold cable, with a length of six feet and a 6.35mm (1/4-inch) single-ended termination. All new Grado cables have been redesigned with a softer more durable braided finish, as well as an improved insulation that is said to enhance flexibility while reducing overall weight.
The cable connects to each housing via a 4-pin balanced mini XLR plug. Future Grado detachable cables will be available with termination options. There will be a 4-pin balanced XLR termination and 4.4mm balanced termination. Additionally, variable cable lengths will also be available. The detachable cables allow users to customize their headphones to best match their source and personal preferences.
The Signature S950 will utilize a new headband assembly that Grado stresses was first made available on the Signature HP100 SE. Built for long listening sessions, the updated headband includes 50% more padding than earlier Grado models. The headband features a stainless-steel band and adjustable height rods, allowing for a customized fit that helps reduce listening fatigue.
Grado Labs adds that it has has manufactured the engraved gimbals from an aluminum alloy, while the stainless-steel height rod adds stability at the connection point. The height rod is designed to remain secure to the junction block as well as restrict the housing rotation to 105 degrees, helping minimize wear over time.
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