Professional Series

Grado PS500 Headphones

Transducer type:

Dynamic

Operating principle:

Open Air

Frequency response:

14–29 kHz

SPL 1mW:

99.8 dB

Nominal impedance:

32 ohms

Driver Matched dB:

±0.05

Ear pads:

L Cushions (Bowl Pads)

Grado PS500 Headphones

The Grado PS500 was introduced as part of the Professional Series, aimed at delivering Grado’s signature sound with a more neutral and balanced presentation. Released in the early 2010s, the PS500 was designed to bridge the gap between the Prestige and Statement Series, offering audiophiles a headphone that combined professional-grade performance with musicality. With its hybrid design, incorporating metal and wood, the PS500 became a favorite for critical listeners who wanted a versatile and detailed listening experience.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The PS500 was developed to offer a more accessible alternative to the flagship PS1000 while retaining the precision and refinement expected of the Professional Series.

Hybrid Construction: The PS500 featured a unique combination of machined aluminum and mahogany, providing enhanced resonance control and tonal warmth.
Designed for Professionals: Intended for studio use as well as audiophile listening, the PS500 offered a more neutral tuning compared to other Grado models, making it a versatile tool for audio engineers and musicians.
Award-Winning Sound: The PS500 received critical acclaim for its combination of detail, balance, and affordability, earning a place in many audiophile collections.

The PS500 showcases Grado’s focus on functionality and durability, with design elements that emphasize both performance and aesthetics.

Materials: Hybrid housings featuring aluminum for rigidity and mahogany for warmth.
Headband: Leather-covered metal band with light padding, providing adequate comfort for extended use.
Cable: Fixed Y-cable with UHPLC copper wiring for clear and precise signal transmission.

The combination of materials and craftsmanship resulted in a headphone that was both robust and lightweight, making it suitable for long listening or studio sessions.

The PS500 is celebrated for its balanced and detailed sound signature, making it an excellent choice for critical listening across a variety of genres.

Bass: Full and impactful, with excellent control and depth that complements the mids and treble.
Mids: Rich and smooth, providing exceptional clarity and texture for vocals and instruments.
Treble: Detailed and extended, offering plenty of sparkle without being overly bright.
Soundstage: Intimate yet precise, with strong imaging and separation that excels in complex tracks.

The PS500’s sound signature strikes a balance between analytical precision and musicality, making it equally suitable for studio work and casual listening.

While the PS500 is already a high-performance headphone, it has attracted modding enthusiasts interested in enhancing its comfort or tailoring its sound.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads for G-Cush or Nyczaj Earpads to adjust comfort and soundstage.
- Replacing the headband with a more padded option for long-term listening comfort.

Re-cabling for modern connectors or increased flexibility.

Collectibility and Reception

The PS500 has earned a loyal following among audiophiles and professionals for its balanced sound and unique design.

Community Reception:
- Praised for its versatility and neutral tuning, the PS500 is often described as a "workhorse" headphone that performs well across a wide range of applications.
- While some listeners prefer the more expansive soundstage of the PS1000, many appreciate the PS500’s focus and control.
Rarity:
- The PS500 is less common than Prestige Series models but remains relatively accessible, with early versions becoming more collectible over time.

The Grado PS500 is a standout in the Professional Series, offering a refined and balanced listening experience that appeals to both audiophiles and professionals. Its hybrid design, precise sound, and versatility make it a unique and valuable addition to Grado’s lineup.