Grado RS1x Reference Headphones

The Grado RS1x represents the heart of the Reference Series—where craftsmanship, material science, and musicality come together in a truly expressive headphone. Hand-built in Brooklyn, the RS1x pairs Grado’s latest X-Series driver platform with a distinctive tri-wood housing design, delivering a presentation that is richly textured, spacious, and deeply engaging.

This is a headphone for listeners who want to move beyond impressive sound—and into emotional connection.

Tri-Wood Construction. Organic, Natural Tone.

The RS1x features a unique combination of maple, hemp, and cocobolo hardwoods. Each layer contributes its own acoustic character:

• Maple adds clarity and structural balance

• Hemp contributes warmth and damping

• Cocobolo enhances harmonic richness and depth

Together, they create a natural, organic tonal balance with impressive body and realism. The housing isn’t just aesthetic—it’s integral to the sound.

50mm X-Series Driver — Power & Control

The RS1x introduces Grado’s larger 50mm X-Series dynamic driver, designed for improved efficiency, lower distortion, and greater dynamic range. Compared to the Prestige models, the RS1x offers:

• Deeper, more authoritative bass

• Greater micro-detail and low-level resolution

• Wider, more dimensional soundstage

• Enhanced separation and layering

Vocals feel textured and lifelike. Acoustic instruments carry air and harmonic nuance. Complex recordings open up with ease and precision. It’s detailed without becoming analytical—refined without losing Grado’s signature immediacy.

Open-Back Transparency

The open-back design allows the RS1x to present music with breath and scale. Imaging is precise, with a strong centre image and convincing depth. It’s an intimate yet expansive experience—ideal for focused listening in a dedicated space.

Craftsmanship & Comfort

Each RS1x is hand-assembled in Brooklyn, with carefully matched drivers and Grado’s upgraded 8-conductor cable for improved signal integrity. The leather headband and larger cushion pads enhance comfort for extended sessions.

At 38 ohms, the RS1x is relatively easy to drive, but it clearly rewards pairing with a high-quality DAC and dedicated headphone amplifier.

Why We Like It

The RS1x strikes a rare balance between technical performance and musical expression. It offers greater refinement and scale than the Prestige Series while maintaining the immediacy that makes Grado so addictive to listen to.

For two-channel enthusiasts building a serious headphone system, the RS1x is a compelling destination.

Key Features

• Open-back, on-ear design

• 50mm X-Series dynamic drivers

• Tri-wood housing: maple, hemp, and cocobolo

• 8-conductor cable

• Leather headband

• Hand-assembled in Brooklyn, NY

Specifications

• Type: Dynamic

• Operating Principle: Open-back

• Frequency Response: 12Hz – 30kHz

• Impedance: 38 ohms

• Sensitivity: 99.8 dB

• Cable Length: 6 ft (1.8 m)

• 3.5mm plug with 1/4" adapter included