The Grado Heritage Series stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to simplicity, tradition, and craftsmanship. With its use of unique and carefully chosen woods, this series showcases Grado’s ability to create headphones that are as visually striking as they are sonically distinctive. Rather than pushing the boundaries of headphone design, the Heritage Series celebrates Grado’s roots, leaning into the retro aesthetic and warm, natural sound that has made the brand a beloved name among audiophiles.
A Nod to Tradition
The Heritage Series is Grado’s way of blending timeless design with a touch of experimentation, all while maintaining the simplicity and openness that define the brand. Each model features a distinct type of wood, chosen not just for its looks but also for how it subtly shapes the headphones’ sound. These limited-edition headphones are an opportunity for Grado enthusiasts to own something special—classic Grado, but with a unique twist.
Key Models in the Heritage Series
1. Grado GH1 – Brooklyn Maple
The GH1 was the inaugural model in the Heritage Series, released in 2015. Sourced from a single maple tree in Brooklyn, the GH1 was Grado’s tribute to its local roots. The sound was warm and inviting, with smooth mids and controlled bass, making it a hit among listeners who valued musicality over analytical precision.\
Sound Signature: Warm, mid-forward, and natural, with a strong focus on vocals and acoustic instruments.
Why It’s Special: Its connection to Brooklyn gives the GH1 a unique story, and the use of locally sourced wood makes it a collector’s piece.
2. Grado GH2 – Cocobolo Wood
The GH2, released in 2017, featured cocobolo wood—a dense material known for its deep reddish hue and tonal properties. The cocobolo added richness to the sound, giving the GH2 a fuller bass and smoother treble compared to other models in the series.
Sound Signature: Rich and bass-forward, with smooth highs and a lush midrange.
Why It’s Special: The cocobolo wood not only enhanced the sound but also gave the GH2 an elegant, luxurious aesthetic.
3. Grado GH3 – Norwegian Pine
The GH3, released alongside the GH4, introduced Norwegian pine into the Grado lineup. As a lighter, more affordable entry into the Heritage Series, it retained Grado’s signature clarity while offering a slightly more relaxed and natural presentation. The use of pine contributed to an airy, open sound with smooth mids and crisp highs, making it a great option for those who enjoy detailed but non-fatiguing listening.
Sound Signature: Open and natural, with smooth mids and a crisp but controlled treble.
Why It’s Special: The GH3 provided an accessible introduction to the Heritage Series while showcasing the sonic potential of pine.
4. Grado GH4 – Norwegian Pine
The GH4 continued the exploration of Norwegian pine, offering a richer and more refined take on the GH3’s sound. Pine added a natural warmth to the midrange while keeping the treble smooth and articulate. The GH4 was often compared to the RS2e for its musicality, making it a standout choice for listeners who appreciate vocal clarity and acoustic instruments.
Sound Signature: Warm and textured, with an emphasis on acoustic instruments and vocal clarity.
Why It’s Special: The Norwegian pine construction gave the GH4 a distinct appearance and organic sound, making it an excellent choice for classical and jazz enthusiasts.
What Makes the Heritage Series Unique?
Limited Editions:
All models in the Heritage Series are produced in small quantities, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Natural Materials:
The use of exotic woods adds character to both the sound and the design, creating headphones that feel timeless yet distinctive.
A Retro Aesthetic:
The Heritage Series embraces Grado’s classic look, with open-back housings and minimalist construction that harken back to simpler times.
Sound with a Twist:
While staying true to Grado’s signature mid-forward and detailed sound, each wood brings subtle variations that make these models unique.
Who Are These For?
The Heritage Series is perfect for long-time Grado enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the brand’s history and craftsmanship. These headphones are less about pushing boundaries and more about honoring tradition, offering a refined listening experience with a touch of nostalgia.
If you’re new to Grado, these models are a great way to experience the brand’s unique approach to sound and design, though their limited availability might make them harder to find.
Final Thoughts
The Grado Heritage Series is a celebration of retro craftsmanship, combining the natural beauty of wood with Grado’s classic sound. These headphones are as much a piece of history as they are a listening tool, appealing to those who value simplicity, musicality, and timeless design.
Whether you’re drawn to the Brooklyn maple of the GH1, the rich cocobolo of the GH2, or the Norwegian pine of the GH4, the Heritage Series offers something truly special for fans of
Grado headphones.
Do you have a favorite model from the Heritage Series? Let’s discuss in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts on these retro classics!
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