Grado Signature HP100 SE Special Edition Open-Back Headphones

Signature HP100 SE

Grado’s new Signature HP100 SE headphones are a contemporary homage to the trailblazing high-end HP1 model heralding a new design direction.

World-renowned designer and manufacturer of award-winning headphones, Grado Labs presents its newest and flagship model, the Signature HP100 SE. Grado Labs founder Joseph Grado created what many consider to be the high-end headphone market with the release of the Signature HP1 headphone in the early 1990s. In recognition of Joseph Grado’s 100th birthday and this industry milestone, Grado Labs is producing these Special Edition headphones. “Although Uncle Joe left us 10 years ago, he will always be a presence at Grado Labs”, says Joseph’s nephew and Grado’s CEO, John Grado.

While the HP100 SE pays homage to Grado’s illustrious past, these headphones are a contemporary version of a true classic, with a new design from the ground up. With newly engineered drivers, the HP100 SE also boasts detachable cables, as well as a fresh headband assembly. This also ushers in a new direction for future Grado headphone releases. As always, the HP100 SE is hand-assembled in its Brooklyn-based headquarters.

Key Features at a Glance

• NEW 52mm Dynamic Driver
• Hand machined Aluminum Housing
• White Stitched Leather Headband
• Drivers matched to .04dB
• NEW Detachable 12 Conductor Cable
• G cushions and F style cushions
• Hand Assembled in Brooklyn, NY, USA

NEW Driver Design

At the heart of the HP100 SE is a completely new speaker design. In considering the attributes of a new 52mm driver, Grado’s goal was to deliver a speaker that produced excellent high frequency resolution, midrange smoothness and bass energy with low distortion, resulting in a voicing that is musically and harmonically correct.

A new paper composite cone was chosen, alongside a powerful high flux magnetic circuit using rare earth alloys, and a new voice coil made from lightweight copper-plated aluminum. This new magnetic circuit coupled with the voice coil produces excellent dynamics and transient response, along with a highly refined sense of space, soundstage and image.

Modern Housing Design and Detachable Cables

Honoring the recognizable heritage of the original Signature HP1/2/3 headphone designs but with a modern feel, the housings are individually machined from specially treated aluminum with the product name neatly engraved on the face. The HP100 SE arrives in a stylish space grey finish.

Finally, a detachable cable. The HP100 SE is the first Grado model to feature detachable cables. A departure from the cable currently employed on the Statement Series, it has been engineered to a softer but durable braided finish, with cable insulation that improves flexibility and decreases the overall weight of the cable.

Terminated with a 6.3mm plug, it connects to each housing via a 4pin mini XLR plug. Additional detachable cable options such as 4pin XLR termination, 4.4mm balanced termination, and various cable lengths, available in the future. This allows for the cable to be changed based on customer needs for source side termination and cable range.

A compatible balanced cable can be found here

Headband Assembly Re-design

The HP100 SE’s headband assembly has changed from the classic Grado models. Designed for comfort during long listening session, the new headband features 50% more padding than previous Grado designs, with a stainless steel band and height rods that can be adjusted for the perfect fit to minimize listening fatigue.

Grado Labs engraved gimbals are made from an aluminum alloy, and the stainless steel height rod enhances the stability of the point where they meet. The height rod is also designed to not slide out of the junction block if the zinc alloy end caps become dislodged. This mechanism limits housing rotation to 105-degrees to reduce wear and tear.

Hand Assembled in Brooklyn

In The Box

• HP100 SE Special Edition Open-Back Headphones
• Grado G Cushion (Installed)
• Grado F Cushion
• 4-pin Mini XLR to 6.35mm (1/4″) Detachable Cable
• Grado Labs Warranty

Specifications

• Transducer Type: Dynamic
• Operating Principle: Open Air
• Frequency Response: 3.5 Hz – 51.5 kHz
• THD: <0.1% @100dB
• SPL 1mW: 117dB
• Nominal Impedance: 38 ohms
• Driver Size: 52 mm
• Driver Matched dB: 0.04 dB
• Cable Type: 12 Conductor detachable
• Headphone Connection: 4-pin Mini XLR
• Source Connection: 6.3 mm
• Ear Cushions: G cushions (installed), F cushions

FAQ

• What makes the Signature HP100 SE unique?
  The HP100 SE combines a modern design with Grado’s signature sound quality. This Special Edition model, released to honor Joseph Grado’s 100th birthday, is hand-assembled in Brooklyn and includes a new 52mm driver, aluminum housing, detachable cables, and a redesigned headband for added comfort.

• What is the significance of the new 52mm driver?
  The newly designed 52mm dynamic driver features a paper composite cone, high-flux magnetic circuit, and copper-plated aluminum voice coil. This driver design provides a balanced sound with excellent high-frequency resolution, smooth mids, and strong bass.

• Are the cables detachable?
  Yes, the HP100 SE is Grado’s first model to feature detachable cables, allowing users to change cables based on their preferred source connection. The headphones come with a 4-pin mini XLR to 6.35mm (1/4″) detachable cable, with additional cable options available for purchase separately.

• How does the headband assembly differ from other Grado models?
  The HP100 SE headband has been redesigned for extended comfort, with 50% more padding and a stainless steel band and height rods for durability. The height rod is designed to prevent sliding out if the end caps are dislodged, reducing wear over time.

• What materials are used in the housing?
  The housing is crafted from specially treated aluminum with a stylish space grey finish, engraved with the model name. This design honors the original Grado Signature series while introducing a contemporary aesthetic.

• How does the open-back design affect the sound?
  The open-back design allows for natural airflow, creating a spacious soundstage with clear instrument separation and lifelike imaging, ideal for immersive listening experiences.

• Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
  Yes, with the new, cushioned headband assembly and lightweight aluminum construction, the HP100 SE provides a comfortable fit, minimizing fatigue during extended use.

• What is included in the box?
  The HP100 SE package includes the open-back headphones with installed G Cushions, a 4-pin mini XLR to 6.35mm detachable cable, and a Grado Labs warranty. It also includes F Cushions as an alternative ear pad option to help tune your headphone experience. The F Cushions were the standard cushions on the original HP1, HP2 and HP3 headphones.

• What is the impedance of the HP100 SE?
  The HP100 SE has an impedance of 38 ohms, making it easy to drive with a variety of audio sources, from mobile devices to high-end audio systems.

• Are there future upgrade options for the cables?
  Yes, Grado plans to offer additional detachable cable options, including 4-pin XLR, 4.4mm balanced termination, and various lengths, to suit different listening setups and source requirements.

About Grado Labs

Grado Labs is a family-owned American company that has been producing exceptional audio products since 1953. Founded by Audio Hall of Famer Joseph Grado, alongside his brother John, the company is renowned for inventing the moving coil stereo cartridge and developing the first true high-end dynamic headphones. These pioneering headphones laid the foundation for what is now known as the audio quality headphone market.