Grado Classic SR80 Open Back Headphones

Heritage
The SR80 stands as one of Grado's most influential headphones, introducing countless listeners to open-back sound for over three decades. Many audio engineers and reviewers first discovered serious listening through this very model. Within the Classic Series, Grado has consolidated elements once reserved for higher models into the SR80. This refines its performance while keeping it accessible. As a result, this headphone remains a natural starting point for anyone curious about open-back listening.

Driver
At the heart of the SR80 sits Grado's 44mm X2 dynamic driver. Grado builds this driver around a Mylar diaphragm, copper voice coil and rare earth magnet system for efficiency and control. As a result, the SR80 carries a lively, energetic character throughout its range. Additionally, Grado's ongoing tuning work has improved balance and clarity without dulling the excitement that defines the range. Compared with the SR60, listeners can expect greater immediacy and tighter bass. The midrange also feels more forward, with extended detail at the top end.

Comfort
Grado fits the SR80 with its standard headband assembly and a padded synthetic headstrap. A steel spring band sits at the core of this design. As a result, listeners can easily adjust inward pressure for a personalised fit. This straightforward approach keeps the headphone light and comfortable during long listening sessions.

Cable
Grado supplies the SR80 with its Bronze cable, fitted in a fixed configuration. This cable balances durability with dependable signal transfer, ensuring a stable connection between headphone and source.

Cushions
Grado ships the SR80 with its F cushions fitted as standard. These bring the driver closer to the ear, reinforcing its energetic sound. Like all Grado cushions, however, these also act as a tuning tool. As a result, listeners can swap them to shift tonal balance and presentation to suit their taste.

Housing
A lightweight die-injection moulded housing keeps the SR80 durable yet comfortable to wear for extended periods. Furthermore, its open-back architecture lets music breathe naturally, adding a sense of space that closed-back designs simply cannot match.

Specifications
Transducer type                   Dynamic
Operating principle              Open-air (open-back)
Frequency response            20Hz–20kHz
Sensitivity (SPL @ 1mW)    98dB
Nominal impedance             38 ohms
Driver matching                   0.1dB
Cushions                              F cushions
Cable                                   Bronze, fixed configuration
Headband                           Standard assembly with steel spring band