Signature Series

Grado HP100 SE Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

3.5 Hz – 51.5 kHz

SPL 1mW:

117 dB

Nominal impedance:

38 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.04

Ear pads:

G Cushions (Large Pads)

Grado HP100 SE Headphones

The Grado Signature HP100 SE, released in 2024, is a contemporary homage to Grado’s iconic HP1 model from the early 1990s. Created to celebrate the 100th birthday of Joseph Grado, the founder of Grado Labs and a pioneer in high-end headphone design, the HP100 SE is both a nod to the brand’s illustrious past and a bold step forward. Featuring newly designed drivers, a modernized headband assembly, and detachable cables, the HP100 SE ushers in a new era of Grado’s flagship headphones.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The HP100 SE represents a significant milestone in Grado’s legacy, honoring its founder and setting a new standard for the brand’s flagship models.

Tribute to Joseph Grado: Released to mark what would have been Joseph Grado’s 100th birthday, the HP100 SE pays homage to the original HP1, a headphone that helped define the high-end market.
A New Direction: The HP100 SE features innovations such as detachable cables and redesigned headband assembly, marking a shift in Grado’s approach to flagship models.
Handcrafted in Brooklyn: Staying true to Grado’s roots, each HP100 SE is hand-assembled at the company’s headquarters in Brooklyn, NY.

The HP100 SE combines classic Grado aesthetics with modern engineering, resulting in a headphone that is both visually striking and highly functional.

Materials: Hand-machined aluminum housings with a sleek space-grey finish, engraved with the model name.
Headband: Redesigned for enhanced comfort, featuring 50% more padding, a stainless steel band, and a more robust gimbal mechanism.
Cable: Detachable 12-conductor braided cable with improved flexibility and reduced weight, offering multiple termination options for versatility.

The inclusion of two types of ear pads (G and F Cushions) allows users to tailor the fit and sound to their preferences.

The HP100 SE delivers an extraordinarily detailed and dynamic sound signature, with refinements across the frequency spectrum.

Bass: Tight, punchy, and well-controlled, with a level of depth and energy not typically associated with Grado headphones.
Mids: Smooth and natural, providing lifelike clarity and warmth for vocals and acoustic instruments.
Treble: Crisp and extended, with the signature Grado sparkle that adds airiness and detail without harshness.
Soundstage: Expansive and precise, offering a vivid sense of space and instrument separation.

The HP100 SE excels across genres, from jazz and classical to rock and electronic, delivering a listening experience that feels both immersive and true to the source.

While the HP100 SE is designed as a complete flagship package, it offers some modding opportunities for enthusiasts.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads with Nyczaj Earpads for added comfort and subtle soundstage adjustments.
- Exploring alternative cables thanks to the detachable 4-pin Mini XLR connectors, offering flexibility for balanced setups.

Collectibility and Reception

The HP100 SE has been highly praised by the audiophile community for its innovative design and exceptional sound quality, making it a sought-after addition to any Grado collection.

Community Reception:
- Praised for its balance of warmth and precision, as well as its ergonomic improvements.
- Many listeners appreciated its nod to the HP1 while welcoming the modern updates, such as the detachable cables and improved comfort.
Rarity:
- As a flagship model, the HP100 SE is readily available, but its limited-edition nature tied to Joseph Grado’s centenary adds an element of collectibility.

The Grado Signature HP100 SE embodies the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that has defined Grado Labs for decades. With its blend of legacy-inspired design and forward-thinking features, the HP100 SE is a testament to Grado’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future. Whether used for critical listening or as a centerpiece in a collection, the HP100 SE is a flagship headphone that sets a new standard for Grado’s lineup.