Grado Classic RS1 X2 Headphones

The Grado Classic RS1 X2 Headphones represent one of the most important models in Grado’s history, now reimagined as part of the new Classic Series. Originally introduced more than three decades ago, the RS1 was the first Grado headphone to feature a wooden housing, establishing a design philosophy that continues to define the brand today.

This pioneering use of natural materials helped shape the distinctive Grado sound, combining warmth, openness, and musical engagement. The new RS1 X2 builds on that heritage by incorporating the latest X2 driver technology and refined construction techniques.

While remaining true to the spirit of the original, this updated version delivers improved balance, clarity, and control, ensuring the RS1 continues to stand as one of the most recognisable and respected models in Grado’s lineup.

Advanced X2 Driver Technology for Expressive Sound

At the heart of the Grado Classic RS1 X2 Headphones is a newly developed 50mm X2 dynamic driver. This driver uses a carefully engineered Mylar diaphragm, copper voice coil, and rare earth magnetic system to provide improved efficiency and sonic precision. The RS1 X2 is tuned to emphasise expressive midrange detail and musical immediacy, delivering vocals and instruments with impressive realism and presence.

This tuning approach helps create a sound that feels both detailed and emotionally engaging. The improved X2 driver platform also enhances clarity and extension across the frequency range while maintaining the lively presentation Grado is known for. This combination of technical refinement and musical character ensures the RS1 X2 continues to appeal to listeners seeking both accuracy and musical enjoyment.

Premium Comfort with Signature Gold Headband Design

The Grado Classic RS1 X2 Headphones feature the Signature Gold headband assembly, representing one of the most advanced mechanical designs used within the Classic Series. This construction includes engraved aluminium alloy gimbals, stainless steel height rods, and reinforced aluminium junction blocks, all designed to improve durability and structural stability.

The controlled rotation of the housings helps maintain proper driver alignment for consistent performance. A genuine leather headband with distinctive white stitching provides enhanced comfort, while the internal steel spring band allows users to adjust clamping pressure for a personalised fit.

These thoughtful design features ensure that the RS1 X2 remains comfortable during extended listening sessions, combining premium materials with practical ergonomics to support both durability and everyday usability.

Refined Accessories and Personalised Tuning

The RS1 X2 is supplied with Grado’s Signature Silver cable, offering improved flexibility and reduced weight compared to earlier cable designs. This ensures easier handling while maintaining dependable signal transmission. The headphones are fitted with Grado’s L cushions, which help deliver a focused and immediate sound presentation by positioning the drivers at an optimal distance from the ear.

As with other Grado models, these cushions also play a role in acoustic tuning and can be changed to alter tonal balance and comfort subtly. This ability to personalise the listening experience reflects Grado’s long-standing approach of allowing users to fine-tune their headphones. Together, the improved cable and carefully selected ear cushions help ensure the RS1 X2 offers both high performance and user flexibility.

Tri-Wood Housing for Unique Acoustic Character

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Grado Classic RS1 X2 Headphones is their tri-wood housing, which combines Cocobolo, hemp, and maple. Each material is chosen for its specific acoustic contribution, with Cocobolo providing density and tonal richness, hemp offering natural damping, and maple adding structural strength and stability.

This multi-material construction helps create a controlled and layered sound presentation with excellent tonal balance. Beyond their acoustic advantages, these natural materials also give the RS1 X2 a unique visual identity, with each pair displaying subtle variations in wood grain.

By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern driver technology, the RS1 X2 demonstrates Grado’s ongoing commitment to blending heritage materials with innovative engineering to deliver a distinctive and highly musical listening experience.