Grado White Review – A Unique Aesthetic with Vintage Vibes

Grado White headphone - photo by Grado

The Grado White, officially known as the White Headphone, stands out in Grado’s lineup for its striking appearance and limited-edition status. Released as a part of Grado’s Prestige Series, this model pays homage to the brand’s vintage roots while offering a distinctive sound signature. With its white housings and retro-inspired design, the Grado White has captured the attention of collectors and casual listeners alike.

But does it live up to its aesthetic appeal? Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Grado White so unique.

Design and Build

The Grado White immediately catches the eye with its bright, matte-white plastic housings and silver accents. It’s a bold departure from Grado’s traditional wood or black designs, exuding a vintage yet modern vibe.

• Materials: The plastic housings feel sturdy despite their lightweight nature. While they may not have the luxurious appeal of Grado’s wooden models, the white finish is clean and elegant.

• Headband and Gimbals: The stock leatherette headband is minimalist, though upgrading to a padded alternative, like those offered by Nyczaj Audio, can enhance comfort. The metal gimbals are sturdy, maintaining the retro aesthetic while ensuring durability.

• Cushions: The White comes with L-Cush pads, which position the drivers slightly away from the ears to create an open and spacious soundstage. These can be swapped for Nyczaj earpads for added comfort and subtle sound tweaks.

  
  

Grado White headphone on a mesurement rig

Sound Performance

While the Grado White’s design draws you in, its sound keeps you hooked. Staying true to Grado’s philosophy, the White delivers a bright and energetic sound signature with a few unique twists.

Bass:

The bass is punchy and well-defined, but it doesn’t dominate the mix. It’s slightly more pronounced than other Prestige models like the SR80x, making it more engaging for genres like rock and pop. However, don’t expect the bass-heavy performance of closed-back headphones—it’s tight, controlled, and true to the Grado lineage.

Mids:

The mids are forward and articulate, showcasing vocals and acoustic instruments with exceptional clarity. Whether you’re listening to a solo guitar or a singer-songwriter track, the White excels at bringing the mids to life.

Treble:

The treble is detailed and lively, though slightly less sharp than some of Grado’s older models. This makes the Grado White more forgiving for long listening sessions, appealing to those who’ve found Grado’s brighter models fatiguing in the past.

Soundstage and Imaging:

Thanks to its open-back design, the Grado White delivers an expansive soundstage with precise imaging. It’s easy to pick out individual instruments in complex arrangements, making it a great choice for live recordings and orchestral music.

Strengths

1. Unique Aesthetic: The White’s standout design sets it apart from the rest of Grado’s lineup, making it a collector’s item.

2. Balanced Sound Signature: It offers a slightly warmer and more forgiving sound than traditional Grado models, making it versatile across genres.

3. Lightweight Design: The headphone’s lightweight build ensures comfort for extended listening sessions, especially when paired with upgraded ear pads.

   
   

Weaknesses

1. Plastic Build: While the design is visually striking, the plastic housings may not appeal to those who prefer the premium feel of Grado’s wooden models.

2. Stock Comfort: The stock headband and L-Cush pads might feel firm for some users. Upgrading to Nyczaj earpads or a padded headband can significantly improve comfort.

3. Limited Availability: As a limited-edition model, the Grado White can be hard to find, especially at its original price point.

   
   

Custom Grado White headphones - photo sent by Peter

How It Compares

Grado White vs. SR325e:

The SR325e offers a brighter and more detailed sound signature, while the White leans slightly warmer and more balanced. The White is also more visually unique, making it a better choice for those looking for a collector’s piece.

Grado White vs. RS2e:

While the RS2e’s wooden housings provide a richer tonal quality, the Grado White holds its own with a lighter, airier presentation. It’s a matter of preference between warmth and openness.

Who Is It For?

The Grado White is perfect for those who value a unique aesthetic alongside high-quality sound. Whether you’re a Grado enthusiast, a collector, or someone looking for a standout pair of open-back headphones, the White offers a compelling package. Its versatile sound makes it suitable for a wide range of genres, from rock and pop to acoustic and classical.

Final Thoughts

The Grado White is more than just a pretty face—it’s a well-rounded headphone that offers an engaging listening experience with a distinctive visual appeal. While it may not have the premium materials of Grado’s flagship models, its balanced sound and vintage vibe make it a worthy addition to any collection.

If you’re lucky enough to snag a pair, you’ll find that the Grado White isn’t just about style—it’s about substance, too. Have you tried the Grado White? What are your thoughts on its unique design and sound? Let’s talk in the comments!