Grado RS1 Hi-Fi Headphones

Grado RS1 Open-Back Headphones — A Grado Original

Few headphones represent the history of Grado more clearly than the RS1. Introduced more than three decades ago, it was the first wooden headphone in the Grado lineup and quickly became one of the brand's defining models. Originally built from mahogany, the RS1 helped establish the relationship between natural materials and the Grado sound — and the current version continues that idea with a tri-wood housing.

50mm X2 Driver and Tri-Wood Housing

At the centre of the RS1 is Grado's 50mm X2 dynamic driver with a Mylar diaphragm, copper voice coil and rare earth magnetic system. Its tuning emphasises expressive midrange detail and musical immediacy. The housing combines cocobolo, hemp and maple; each material contributes its own density, damping and structural stability, creating a layered and controlled presentation.

Built for Long Listening Sessions

The RS1 uses Grado's Signature Gold headband assembly — the most refined mechanical platform in the Classic Series — with engraved aluminium alloy gimbals, stainless steel height rods and reinforced aluminium junction blocks. A genuine leather headstrap with contrasting white stitching adds comfort, and the internal steel spring band lets you adjust the clamping pressure. The Signature Silver cable offers reduced weight and improved flexibility.

• Transducer Type: Dynamic — 50mm X2 driver.
• Operating Principle: Open air — open-back design for a natural, spacious sound.
• Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 30 kHz.
• Sensitivity: 99.8 dB SPL @ 1 mW.
• Nominal Impedance: 38 ohms — runs well from portable players as well as home amplifiers.
• Driver Matching: 0.05 dB.
• Cushions: L cushions — part of the tuning for a focused, immediate presentation.

Who the RS1 Is For

The RS1 is the right choice for home listeners who want the classic Grado sound in a wooden headphone with a strong focus on midrange detail and immediacy. The standard L cushions reinforce a focused presentation and, like all Grado cushions, also act as a tuning element. As an open-back headphone it leaks sound, so it fits best in quiet, private listening spaces.

Hand-Assembled in Brooklyn Since 1953

Grado Labs is a family-owned company that has been building audio products in Brooklyn, New York since 1953. The RS1 remains one of its most recognisable headphones and a cornerstone of the Classic Series.