Professional Series

Grado PS500e 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 PS500e Headphones

The Grado PS500e, released in 2014, is a model in Grado’s Professional Series “e” generation that strikes a perfect balance between precision and musicality. Positioned below the flagship PS1000e, the PS500e offers a more accessible entry point into Grado’s Professional Series while retaining the detailed, dynamic sound signature that the lineup is known for. With its aluminum and mahogany hybrid housing, the PS500e is designed for audiophiles seeking accurate sound reproduction with a touch of warmth.

Facts

History and Trivia

Build Quality and Design

Sound Description

Modding Potential

The PS500e continues the legacy of the PS500 and represents a more compact and affordable alternative to Grado’s flagship professional models.

"e" Series Refinements: The PS500e features upgraded drivers, improved cable design, and the distinctive aluminum/mahogany hybrid housing that enhances resonance control and tonal clarity.
Hybrid Housing Design: The combination of materials results in a sound signature that is both precise and warm, appealing to listeners across a wide range of genres.
Legacy: The PS500e remained a favorite among audiophiles seeking high-performance headphones at a more affordable price point until its successor, the PS500x, was introduced in 2022.

The PS500e blends premium materials with Grado’s signature minimalist aesthetic.

Materials: Aluminum outer housing with a mahogany inner chamber, designed to balance resonance and optimize tonal performance.
Headband: Flexible metal band with leatherette covering, offering a secure and lightweight fit.
Cable: Fixed Y-cable with UHPLC copper wiring, ensuring optimal signal transmission and reduced microphonics.

The lightweight design and bowl-shaped L Cushions make the PS500e comfortable for extended listening sessions, though the minimal headband padding may not suit all users.

The PS500e delivers a precise and engaging sound signature, ideal for critical listening and music appreciation.

Bass: Deep, tight, and well-controlled, providing a strong foundation without overpowering the mids or treble.
Mids: Forward and detailed, with a natural warmth that highlights vocals and instruments beautifully.
Treble: Smooth and extended, offering clarity and sparkle without harshness.
Soundstage: Intimate yet precise, with excellent imaging and separation that excels in genres like rock, jazz, and acoustic music.

The PS500e’s sound strikes a balance between analytical precision and musical enjoyment, making it a versatile choice for a variety of listening styles.

As with other Grado models, the PS500e is popular among modding enthusiasts for its customization potential.

Common Mods:
- Swapping ear pads for G-Cush or Nyczaj Earpads to improve comfort and expand the soundstage.
- Upgrading the headband for additional padding and support during long listening sessions.
- Re-cabling for detachable connectors or balanced audio setups, though care is needed to preserve the hybrid housing.

Collectibility and Reception

The PS500e remains a beloved model in Grado’s Professional Series, praised for its performance, build quality, and value.

Community Reception:
- Widely appreciated for its balanced and detailed sound, the PS500e is often described as a “sweet spot” in Grado’s lineup for those seeking high performance without the cost of flagship models.
- Some listeners preferred the wider soundstage of the PS1000e, but the PS500e’s intimate presentation and engaging sound signature were highly regarded.
Rarity:
- The PS500e is still commonly available on the second-hand market, but pristine units are increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

The Grado PS500e exemplifies Grado’s ability to deliver high-performance sound in a compact and accessible package. With its hybrid housing, balanced sound signature, and modding potential, it remains a favorite among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Whether used in its stock form or customized through mods, the PS500e offers a listening experience that is both precise and engaging.