Grado updates Award-winning, entry-level headphone range with Prestige X Series

Grado Prestige X Series
(Image credit: Grado)

Grado has taken one of the most celebrated open-back headphone designs in What Hi-Fi? history and improved it once more. The Brooklyn-based brand has announced the Prestige X Series, successor to the Prestige E range from which the multi-Award-winning SR325e and SR80e belong.

This new generation of the Prestige Series is a model for model replacement, comprising the SR60x (£109.95, $99, AU$139), SR80x (£129.95, $125, AU$179), SR125x (£189.95, $175, AU$249), SR225x (£249.95, $225, AU$319) and SR325x (£329.95, $295, AU$419). Prestige remains the company's entry-level range, sitting just beneath the Reference Series, and is historically notable for Grado for having spawned its first-ever pair (the SR80) and its first metal model (SR325).

Grado SR325x

(Image credit: Grado)

So, what has changed to warrant the 'X' upgrade? First and foremost, Grado has introduced a new, fourth-generation driver, which utilises both a new magnetic circuit (for improved efficiency) and a newly designed voice coil and diaphragm (to further reduce distortion). Grado says the result is a headphone that's easier to drive "across a variety of portable devices".

There's a new and improved cable design too – an 8-conductor one for the SR125x, SR225x and SR325x, and a 4-conductor one for the SR60x and SR80x. As a surprise to absolutely no one, Grado has stuck with its legacy aesthetic, although the pleather headband (leather in the SR325x) has been redesigned to enhance comfort.

Considering the consistent success of the Prestige Series, we can't help but await these new models with sky-high expectations. For the benefit of anyone after an excellent pair of reasonably priced open-back headphones, our fingers are crossed that they deliver.

MORE:

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Becky Roberts

Becky is the managing editor of What Hi-Fi? and, since her recent move to Melbourne, also the editor of Australian Hi-Fi magazine. During her 10+ years in the hi-fi industry, she has reviewed all manner of audio gear, from budget amplifiers to high-end speakers, and particularly specialises in headphones and head-fi devices. In her spare time, Becky can often be found running, watching Liverpool FC and horror movies, and hunting for gluten-free cake.

  • nopiano
    I’m also keeping fingers crossed that they’re even better. I love that they’re still made in the USA and not outsourced to you know where.
    Reply
  • Onny
    Just got my e series order bumped to the x. Can’t wait to hear what the new upgrades will sound like when mine arrives
    Reply