Brooklyn-based Grado Labs’ Signature S750 headphones deliver superb sound, but come with some notable compromises in comfort and connectivity, raising the question of whether sonic excellence justifies everyday usability issues.
A Sound Investment? Grado’s S750 Headphones Offer Thrilling Audio—With Caveats
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The Grado Signature S750 headphones boast impressive audio quality, but their design choices may not appeal to all listeners.
Photograph: Simon Lucas
What makes the Grado Signature S750 headphones stand out? These headphones deliver an uncomplicatedly impressive and periodically thrilling listening experience, depending on the music selection.
The Cable Conundrum
The adjustment mechanism for the headband feels familiar, yet surprisingly rudimentary. While the detachable cable offers more flexibility than older Grado models, it still feels somewhat impractical. In fact, the 180-centimeter cable with a 6.3-mm termination feels unnecessarily short for many setups.
For the price, a wider selection of cable options would be reasonable. Many competitors include balanced connection cables (4-pin XLR and 4.4mm) as standard, but Grado has only suggested that these options are “forthcoming” for some time, and will come at an additional cost.
Comfort and Cushioning
The effectiveness of the “B” ear cushions in contributing to the superb sound quality of the Signature S750 is undeniable. However, the raw foam material isn’t particularly comfortable and tends to trap heat. “Premium” and “luxurious” aren’t words that readily come to mind when describing the feel of these cushions.
A Question of Priorities
Ultimately, the value of the Grado Signature S750 headphones hinges on individual priorities. If outstanding sound quality is paramount, and a listener is willing to tolerate some discomfort and connectivity limitations, these headphones are a compelling choice. But for those seeking a more well-rounded experience, the shortcomings may be too significant to overlook, even with the “hand-assembled in Brooklyn, USA” pedigree.
