Heritage Series

Grado GH4 Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

18–24 kHz

SPL 1mW:

99.8 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.05

Ear pads:

L Cushions (Bowl Pads)

Grado GH4 Headphones

The Grado GH4, released in 2018, is the fourth model in Grado’s Heritage Series. Crafted from Norwegian pine, like its sibling the GH3, the GH4 takes the Heritage Series to the next level with a larger housing and refined sound profile. Combining Grado’s signature design with the natural resonance of pine wood, the GH4 offers a listening experience that is both expansive and intimate. Its limited production and handcrafted quality make it a prized addition to any audiophile's collection.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The GH4 builds upon the principles established in the Heritage Series, using unique materials to achieve both sonic and aesthetic excellence.

Norwegian Pine Housing: The larger wooden housings are crafted from Norwegian pine, offering enhanced acoustic properties and a distinctive appearance.
Expanded Soundstage: Thanks to its larger housing, the GH4 provides a more expansive and detailed soundstage compared to the GH3.
Limited Edition: Like all Heritage Series models, the GH4 was produced in limited quantities, adding to its allure for collectors.

The GH4 maintains Grado’s commitment to craftsmanship, blending timeless design with functional enhancements.

Materials: Hand-crafted Norwegian pine housings, chosen for their tonal warmth and aesthetic appeal.
Headband: Genuine leather headband without padding, staying true to Grado’s classic minimalist design.
Cable: Fixed braided Y-cable for durability and reliable signal transmission.

The combination of its lightweight construction and bowl-shaped L Cushions ensures comfort and usability, even for long listening sessions.

The GH4 delivers an engaging and natural sound signature, amplified by the acoustic properties of its larger wooden housings.

Bass: Rich and controlled, with a depth that provides a solid foundation for all genres.
Mids: Smooth and forward, offering lifelike clarity and a warm, inviting tone for vocals and instruments.
Treble: Crisp and detailed, with the characteristic Grado sparkle that adds airiness without being fatiguing.
Soundstage: Expansive and precise, offering a greater sense of space and imaging compared to smaller models.

The GH4’s tonal balance and refined sound make it ideal for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic, where its natural warmth and clarity truly shine.

As a limited-edition wooden model, the GH4 is occasionally modded to enhance its comfort and durability.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads with Nyczaj Earpads or G Cushions for increased comfort and an expanded soundstage.
- Upgrading to Nyczaj Metal Gimbals for improved durability and a more premium aesthetic.
- Adding Nyczaj Padded Leather Headbands to elevate comfort during extended listening sessions.
- Re-cabling for detachable connectors or balanced audio setups, though care must be taken to preserve the wooden housings.

Collectibility and Reception

The GH4 is highly regarded among audiophiles for its rich sound, unique materials, and limited availability.

Community Reception:
- Praised for its natural warmth and expansive soundstage, the GH4 is seen as a step up from the GH3 in both performance and design.
- Listeners appreciated its Norwegian pine construction, noting its distinct tonal character and craftsmanship.
Rarity:
- As a limited-edition model in the Heritage Series, the GH4 is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

The Grado GH4 is a testament to Grado’s ability to blend tradition and innovation, crafting headphones that are as beautiful to look at as they are to listen to. With its larger wooden housings, engaging sound signature, and limited-edition status, the GH4 is a standout model in Grado’s Heritage Series. Whether you’re a dedicated audiophile or a passionate collector, the GH4 is a headphone that embodies Grado’s artistry and attention to detail.