Wireless Series

Grado GW100 Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

20–20 kHz

SPL 1mW:

99.8 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.1

Ear pads:

S Cushions (Flat Pads)

Grado GW100 Headphones

The Grado GW100, introduced in 2018, is Grado’s first wireless headphone model, combining the brand’s signature open-back design with modern Bluetooth technology. The GW100 preserves Grado’s renowned sound quality while offering the convenience of wireless connectivity, making it a standout in the growing market of wireless audiophile headphones. Built with a lightweight design and equipped with aptX technology, the GW100 caters to listeners who value freedom of movement without sacrificing audio performance.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The GW100 marked a significant milestone for Grado as the brand entered the wireless headphone market for the first time.

Open-Back Design in Wireless: Grado claimed the GW100 to be the world’s first open-back Bluetooth headphone, offering a unique listening experience compared to closed-back wireless models.
Tuning for Wireless: The GW100’s drivers were specifically tuned to compensate for the different acoustic characteristics of Bluetooth transmission, ensuring a sound profile consistent with Grado’s wired models.
Legacy: The GW100 set the stage for Grado’s wireless lineup, with its successor, the GW100x, introducing further refinements in 2022.

The GW100 retains Grado’s signature minimalist aesthetic, emphasizing functionality and comfort.

Materials: Lightweight plastic housings designed for portability and long-term comfort.
Headband: Flexible metal band with minimal padding, in keeping with Grado’s traditional design philosophy.
Controls: Physical buttons on the ear cups for power, playback, and volume adjustment.

The GW100’s open-back design allows for a natural soundstage, though it also means less isolation, which may not suit noisy environments.

The GW100 delivers a sound signature that closely resembles Grado’s wired headphones, emphasizing detail, clarity, and natural tonality.

Bass: Tight and well-controlled, providing a balanced foundation without overpowering the mids and treble.
Mids: Forward and detailed, offering excellent clarity for vocals and instruments.
Treble: Extended and crisp, delivering sparkle and airiness without becoming harsh.
Soundstage: Spacious and natural, a hallmark of Grado’s open-back design, though slightly less expansive than wired models due to the wireless format.

The GW100 performs well across a variety of genres, making it a versatile option for listeners who value a balanced and engaging sound.

While the GW100 is less mod-friendly due to its integrated electronics and wireless design, there are still some customization options.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads for alternatives like Nyczaj Earpads or G-Cush to enhance comfort and soundstage.
- Replacing the headband for added padding, though this requires care due to the built-in wiring that connects the ear cups.

Collectibility and Reception

The GW100 was received as a bold and innovative step for Grado, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers to the brand.

Community Reception:
- Praised for delivering a “Grado-like” sound in a wireless format, the GW100 was well-received by audiophiles who valued its unique combination of features.
- Some listeners noted the lack of advanced features like noise cancellation, but this was largely offset by its superior sound quality.
Rarity:

As Grado’s first wireless model, the GW100 holds a special place in the brand’s history and is increasingly sought after by collectors.

The Grado GW100 is a groundbreaking model that brings Grado’s legendary sound quality into the wireless era. With its open-back design, detailed sound signature, and comfortable build, the GW100 is an excellent choice for listeners who want to experience Grado’s signature audio performance on the go. Whether as a daily driver or part of a Grado collection, the GW100 remains a standout in the brand’s lineup.