The Grado SR325 is a popular love or hate headphone. My initial impression back in the day was not good, has it changed over time? Here is my review of the Grado SR325.
I got a pair almost 2 weeks ago now and they've become one of my favorite headphones I have. I also have the HD700 and feel the 325e is a better headphone overall. I normally don't EQ my headphones but I did have to go up about 3dB on the bass because it is quite light. I love the speed and detail of this headphone and I'm listening to it more than my Ananda which is like my all-time favorite one. For $295 the SR325e is a steal for the SQ you get and to me, it can compete with much more expensive headphones. Safe to say I've become a Grado fan and I'm already looking at getting the RS1e in the near future.
You haven't heard anything yet... They open up more and become more realistic as time goes by.... I'm on my 5th pair of Grado headphones I usually leave them on my amp with a variety of music for about 3 days... At first I was very sceptical of the burn in comments until I tried it... Trust me it works
@@davejackson7390 I agree, I observed the same process with an integrated amplifier - I bought what was supposed to be an upgrade, sounded very stiff out of the box. I was considering to return it then one day the sound opened up like a flower from a bud. I used to have an amp that allowed having speakers and headphones on at the same time, which was a good feature for breaking headphones whilst using the system for something else. The one I have now cuts the sound off the speakers the moment you plug headphones in.
Great review. Loved the sound comments, especially regarding the sound stage. I'm currently looking at getting a pair of Grado from the SR range, and have yet to find such balanced commentary on the sound of these. By the way I wouldn't usually watch a review this long, but tuned in because something about your "face for radio" convinced me it would be worthwhile. Cheers.
I liked your video but you did not seem very prepared and your thoughts not flow well, but was truthful. The difference between your the first time you listened to them in the past was they take time to smooth out. My daughter lost my GR80's and replaced them with the 325e so, I was excited to try them right away. I was a little surprised by the brightness exhibited and just how brittle the treble was portrayed. I plugged them into my amp and left them on for 3 days. At the end of the 3 days they really sounded full and more true to life. This was my fifth pair of Grado headphones so I remembered they take time to open up....BTW it's pronounced GRAY-DOE. I think that most of the modern headphones are designed for todays market with overemphasized bass and rounded highs but the Grados present a more truthful reference for most recordings. I have been to live intimate jazz clubs so I realize that treble details are truly bright and an acoustic bass is not as big as most headphones are representing today. I appreciate your review because I trust you for not filling the review with the usual clichés. If you want to hear sonic beauty listen to Stan Getz Ballads and Bossa Nova. You hear everything down to the finest details...valves opening and closing...him breathing between notes...the pedals on the piano...slide on the trombone...good stuff and thanks.
I like to do my reviews unscripted and they can seem unprepared at times but I am prepared, just shooting honest thoughts. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Stan Getz Ballads is amazing, love it. Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing 👍
I have the SR325e and for big band music and jazz and easy listening songs from the 50s, these are my go to. The tuning is perfect for it. The RS2e add a pinch of warmth and a slight toning of the highs, it’s more refined, it is a better all rounder, it is the best Grado I have heard, but I haven’t heard the X lineup.
I have the SR125 (used to believe these were 125i but in fact I think these are actually 125) and the pads were uncomfortable. I replaced them with the flat S-pads from SR60 and I find them much more user-friendly. The pads used here in your video I believe are the G-cushions which come as stock in their top models. The SR325 come with L-pads as stock. S-pads will bring them closer to the ear if you seek that extra punchy bass however the S pads are poor quality and will wear out quickly. L-pads are made of different foam and mine have turned into powder after I left them disused for some time. The pads literally de-materialised.
I tried the Grado sr325x recently and wow! These have become my favourite way to listen to music with one exception. The Grado's have knocked aside my Edifier stax spirit s3, 7hz timeless and Audeze LCD2 for extended listening for enjoyment (using 3 different sources from headphone amp, Sony dap and v60 phone and using WAV source files). They're light and comfortable. And to listen to is fun and personal. The only thing I have that matches this are the shure se846 (8 years old). They which have the intimacy and also the detail, staging and sheer enjoyment. Hello Grado!
Awesome review. I just ordered mine. I've had the sr125e for several years but wanted to step up. I also ordered some aftermarket pads to experiment with.
Awesomeness. Glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and impressions. Larger pads definitely help. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I've had them 4 days now. I think they are great phones. I didn't find them harsh at all (I'm only 29 so I'm still pretty sensitive to higher frequencies). The Soundstage is more open than the SR125e. It's more airy. The bass is fine, maybe slightly improved from the SR125. I have my sound EQued on my phone to suit my taste. Mostly listen to rock, metal, and classic country. The stock pads are rough, so I replaced them with aftermarket L pads which are softer & helped with comfort. I like the leather headband. It's not much, but helps with longer listening. Now, that was tested on my phone. I plugged them into my vintage Sansui 661 receiver and put on The Wall. I was absolutely blown away! The bass was set at +3 and it was waayy too much! I had to turn it down to -3 and it was much better. These phones are more than capable when paired with high quality audio components. Currently looking at a portable DAC, but the one I just bought won't work with my Galaxy A50.
Just found this vid, good review. I have the 325 for a long time and its "musical" and has enough details. The larger replacement pad seen on the vid when compared with the smaller original L pad, sounds quieter! Strictly speaking the 325 is a on-ear headphone rather than over-ear unless you change to a larger pad like the one seen here but at the expense of cranking up the vol..
This is a very good headphone. I also have the RS2e which sounds like they took a 325e and made it sound better: Smoother, more refined. By the way, the big pads do not sound good on the RS2e like they do on the 325e. The big pads make the RS2e too bright at higher volumes
After listening to them for hours and hours... they ripped all your high frequency stereocilia out of your cochlea which made you hf deaf. This is why they began to sound better lol. Good review dave xx
David Sylvia I also have Audeze iSine20, which are so much more detailed than Grados, but less punchier in the bass. I still like SR325 for Rock music, and yes, with the stock pads, they have the perfect amount of deep punch bass. I’m not a bass head ... HipHop doesn’t sound as deep as it should. On rare occasions I wish they had a tad more bass on some EDM songs. But it’s not an issue at all. I never get tired of listening to them.
David Sylvia Yeah, I know what you mean. I find the larger tips to give me more bass compared the the medium and small ones. I use the medium tips on my set.
I have both pads too and the large ones are more comfortable. But you sacrifice the sound a little. It’s less punchier than it is with the original pads.
This is great! Im super curious about these cans now. Having the sr80e, I'm looking for something else in the grado line and the metal construction of these sound inviting.
I've got these with the smaller plug. Overall I really like them, but wouldn't mind heavier bass in them. I have only powered them with phones with supposedly quality DACs. Since they're so easy to power I don't think I'm missing too much. I work in an office and I find being able to hear though them allows me to be more present when needed without someone thinking they're gonna startle me.
Did you tube them, David? Just curious. I'm a fan of several profiles; i.e., a mix. Never have asked you, your favorite; I know you've mentioned treble; so, more of a bright then, sounding profile? I love a Mids centric-signature on occasion, to mix in; such as, yes, a 600, 650/6xx; but, to me, the best of those, (the HD 600 series) is the 660s (special, IMHO. Don't have a set of my own right now, planning on getting another 😁). But, can also enjoy The t50 mods, t20rp, and etc, for some planar bass; and any cans, that boast a bass with soundstage, I'm a sucker for. Used to be sensitive to treble; but not now, hence, where I feel the HD 660s, sets itself apart in the 600 series from the others, more clear treble detail, IMHO, in listening. Since having got more 2 feet planted into the hobby, I love the details now. Obviously, so long as it doesn't have a true and undoubtedly verified symbalance. Never got to hear the hd 700's, they hard to find. Doable; but not many out there (fairly knowing those who have them, like them and don't sell them often). But anyhow, sorry for rambling 😆 great review, enjoyed it as usual David! 👍🏼💯🔥🎧✌🏼
@Joshua Tolliver I did try the Grado SR335 on tubes at some point, might not have been during this review. I actually quite like them on my APPJ PA1502A and the Cavalli CTH. Sennheiser 660s I have heard a few times in passing and do enjoy it, really need to get it in for a review.
The ear pads definitely impact the sound signature... with the stock L earpads the bass is slightly more emphasized and the soundstage is somewhat smaller.
That's exactly my observation. Also, you may or may not have noticed, but in addition to the larger soundstage with the larger pads, and somewhat less upper bass, the vocals become more focused. I noticed this on several recordings, and preferred the larger pads in some ways for this reason. Switching back to the smaller pads gives you a whole other sound...bass is more full, and vocals are right up front. I liked them..owned them twice. But, ultimately sold them twice, too.
@@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio I haven't had the chance to hear them with the smaller ear foams in several months. But if I get the chance again, I will keep that observation in mind.
Thank you very much for your review I'm tempted to buy Grado Headphones I listen almost exclusively to Psychedelic Blues-rock Vintage music focused on overdiven electric Guitar tone (Cream/Jimi Hendrix Expericence/Deep Purple/Rory Gallagher ecc) and I'm searching for an headphone with controlled Bass response, Great MIDS (flat opr +1db) And high frequencies not emphasized. I know Grado are great pair of headphones for the genre of music I'm Into BUT Highs are a problem for me..I like detail and clarity but not too much. What If I purchase a LITTLE DOT valvolar ampli?Maybe I can contain the high frequencies? I would also consider buying Sennhaiser HD600..250 ohm instead of 32 Ohm of the grado but not too Trebly like Grado Thank for your attention
The large pads "mellow" the somewhat harsh sound (without sacrificing detail), making them, to my ears at least, good for classical (and most other acoustic) music.
Took the plunge and bought these,and,as far as I’m concerned..............the cable can be twice as thick if it makes them sound the way they do. Sound fantastic with an ancient Marantz Pearl Lite CD player and a Graham Slee headphone amp.Thanks for the very helpful review!
What tracks do you listen to when reviewing headphones? have you heard "Host Of Seraphim" ? It starts with a violent synth piano chord that goes on forever and can be quite badly reproduced by different speakers/headphones. Then there are moments when the singer's voice fades away with reverb/echo which is also not easily recreated by all systems. For decoding multiple layers of sounds and hidden background sounds I use Nine Inch Nails -The Fragile album which is absolutely full of background sounds that can sound blurry on poor systems.
Music recommendations: tidal.com/browse/playlist/5bbf80ce-33f3-4222-a1fc-6539a95415d6 (in order of playlist) Tingvall Trio “Beat” - piano tonality Sinne Eeg “We’ve Just Begun” - multiple layer soundstage Molly Johnson “What a Little Moonlight Can Do” - female vocal tone Leslie Odom Jr. “Under Pressure” - male vocal tone Eric Clapton “Change the World” - soundstage, layering and placement Yo Yo Ma “Ecstasy of Gold” - acoustic instrument timbre Adam Baldych “Spem in Alium” - acoustic instrument timbre Pain of Salvation “Stress” - percussion balance Michael Buble “When I Fall in Love” - orchestral dynamics Patricia Barber “Code Cool” - sibilance check Christian Scott “New New Orleans” - shouty upper mids Tool “Chocolate Chip Trip” - imaging Hans Zimmer “Why So Serious” - sub bass extension Marcus Miller “No Limit” - bass control Dave Holland Quartet “Conference Of The Birds”- bass check Ilhan Eshkeri “47 Ronin”- orchestra and bass dynamics Hans Zimmer :2049” - sub bass extension Cher: Believe - sibilance Stanley Clarke - Passenger 57 main title - percussion, bass, seperation and placement Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra - The Pine of the Appian Way - soundstage, imaging and seperation Houston Person - You are my Sunshine - tone and timbre
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you very much, I saw one on ebay for 125, in this case I won't go over 150, especially since the shipping itself is about 15-20 bucks
Anyone who says Grado headphones are too bright hasn't paired them with the right equipment or hasn't spent enough time with them. The SR325e don't come with the G Cushions so good move on the part of the owner. The other obvious upgrade is to pad the headband for added comfort.
Very true, Grado headphones can be gear dependant just like a lot of other gear. I also agree that headband comfort is a must, ZMF Pilot pad works well. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I recently sold my SR225e and I already regret it. I'll get the 325 when I have the money. Have you had a chance to review the Philips Fidelio that sort of have a similar style? www.usa.philips.com/c-p/X2HR_00/fidelio-fidelio-headphones
@@TheHonestAudiophile Cool. I'm interested in that model, although I've never seen it in stores here in Montreal. Honestly, the best headphones I've heard so far are Audeze LCD-X paired with a AudioQuest DragoFly Cobalt running Tidal Hifi. It was like being on a cloud.
Grados are strange. SR80s are the first headphones I ever had that wowed me and that I could afford at the time. But times have changed and I question why they haven’t improved on their overall design in anyway. There’s a factory tour somewhere on RUclips and it looks like they’re still assembled in something akin to a dusty cobblers workshop in Brooklyn throwing on the same tired old scratchy pads onto metal rods. My pair broke long ago and if I had to demo them again I doubt I’d be impressed as there’s so many other great options out there right now that have caught up and surpassed them.
I remember seeing that workshop tour, it was interesting insight for sure. I like some Grado that I have heard at random times. They are a unique sound for sure.
I honestly love the design, the only annoying thing about the rods is that if you have long hair and you put the headphones around your neck, they'll get caught in your hair if they twist around lol. The pads could use work for sure.
The Sundara have better bass and detail retrieval. I haven't done a side by side comparison though. Interesting if I can get them both in house and do a comparison
I watched 42 seconds. Wrong earpads. Those make SR325 sounds horrible. Everything wrong with just explodes even further. Those needs to be pushed as flat Tony our ear as possible. That will tame the peak in upper mids, boost lower mids and mid bass tremendously making them one of the best headphones of all time. You can actually hear everything plus the sound is moving.
@@TheHonestAudiophile absolutely is and I added a lambskin headband from zmf to complete the transformation... They now outperform pretty much anything I own .
Cables came folded. The kinks in the cable remain despite massaging for over a month... pretty disappointing and a complete put off for me used to premium best in class products... I have the sr80's same problems with the cables but a far superior, transparent open and immediate headphone... buy it and don't believe the sales hype of more expensive offerings
as crazy as this sound i have a more exciting sound from my $30 zs10 pro vs my $300 sr325e (but of course has less detail and clarity) , stock pad have the same shape but dual foam density, the replacement pad you have is the cheapo $10 copy using single foam density. agree they are nice for classical and rock but not for techno because it lacks the required huge bumpy subbass you get with a $26 blon 03
@amanieux "more exciting" as in more treble energy? I agree the bass is more mid bass emphasis then sub bass. Grado do sound good for rock and classical, my two music preferences.
@@TheHonestAudiophile grado is already a colored non analytical non flat headphone this is why i picked grado as this was more lively to me but v or u or w shaped chifi is even a step more lively to my ears, this is why i resold my grado
Love mine but they broke after a year of use. The headband broke right at the cheap plastic boxes they use to secure the headband and ear pieces. Called the company, emailed them, left negative reviews all over social media and zero response from Grado. I will never buy another product from them again!
I can not recommend SR325is hedphones. These are my worst pair of headphones. Sound quality is bad and sound is veiled. Highs are extremely shouty. Lows are just not there. Both built quality and comfort are just horrifying. Looks are nice. And price is just much too much for this package 500 usd here in Europe.
Drinking coffee during the review video is kind of a thing for me, it started early on in the channels life and has stuck. Everyone has a style and approach. Thanks for watching and commenting.
What is wrong with using "used equipment"? The headphones were sent in to the channel for review. "Non-Oem parts"really? The user sent them to me and I was very clear on the fact. "Face for radio" wow that is a low blow, keep the hands above the belt.
@@TheHonestAudiophile excellent review David ... I have owned the original SR80 headphones for about 7 years and have grown to love the sound. I'm looking to upgrade to the SR325 units but I'm a bit confused about the ear pads. Are the pads on the review headphones Grado G Cush or something else? ... and if they are not Grado would it be possible for you to investigate the model and source ... cheers from downunder.
@@gregmcconnell6824 Thanks for the kind words. I will ask the subscriber who sent those in for review for the pad information. I will get back to you as soon as I learn something.
I got a pair almost 2 weeks ago now and they've become one of my favorite headphones I have. I also have the HD700 and feel the 325e is a better headphone overall. I normally don't EQ my headphones but I did have to go up about 3dB on the bass because it is quite light. I love the speed and detail of this headphone and I'm listening to it more than my Ananda which is like my all-time favorite one. For $295 the SR325e is a steal for the SQ you get and to me, it can compete with much more expensive headphones. Safe to say I've become a Grado fan and I'm already looking at getting the RS1e in the near future.
Awesomeness. I would love to review the RS1 if I can get a pair in for review.
You haven't heard anything yet... They open up more and become more realistic as time goes by.... I'm on my 5th pair of Grado headphones I usually leave them on my amp with a variety of music for about 3 days... At first I was very sceptical of the burn in comments until I tried it... Trust me it works
@@davejackson7390 I agree, I observed the same process with an integrated amplifier - I bought what was supposed to be an upgrade, sounded very stiff out of the box. I was considering to return it then one day the sound opened up like a flower from a bud. I used to have an amp that allowed having speakers and headphones on at the same time, which was a good feature for breaking headphones whilst using the system for something else. The one I have now cuts the sound off the speakers the moment you plug headphones in.
@@TheHonestAudiophile To me the RS1e is thick and veiled, but I’m sure I have not heard it with equipment that brings out the best
I like, how you've just started by sipping coffee and, just woke up mode, and then, smoothly transitioned into the in-depth analysis.
Awesomeness. I am glad you liked the review.
Great review. Loved the sound comments, especially regarding the sound stage. I'm currently looking at getting a pair of Grado from the SR range, and have yet to find such balanced commentary on the sound of these. By the way I wouldn't usually watch a review this long, but tuned in because something about your "face for radio" convinced me it would be worthwhile. Cheers.
Glad you found the review helpful. Thank you for watching, commenting and subscribing.
I liked your video but you did not seem very prepared and your thoughts not flow well, but was truthful. The difference between your the first time you listened to them in the past was they take time to smooth out. My daughter lost my GR80's and replaced them with the 325e so, I was excited to try them right away. I was a little surprised by the brightness exhibited and just how brittle the treble was portrayed. I plugged them into my amp and left them on for 3 days. At the end of the 3 days they really sounded full and more true to life. This was my fifth pair of Grado headphones so I remembered they take time to open up....BTW it's pronounced GRAY-DOE. I think that most of the modern headphones are designed for todays market with overemphasized bass and rounded highs but the Grados present a more truthful reference for most recordings. I have been to live intimate jazz clubs so I realize that treble details are truly bright and an acoustic bass is not as big as most headphones are representing today. I appreciate your review because I trust you for not filling the review with the usual clichés. If you want to hear sonic beauty listen to Stan Getz Ballads and Bossa Nova. You hear everything down to the finest details...valves opening and closing...him breathing between notes...the pedals on the piano...slide on the trombone...good stuff and thanks.
I like to do my reviews unscripted and they can seem unprepared at times but I am prepared, just shooting honest thoughts. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
Stan Getz Ballads is amazing, love it. Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing 👍
I have the SR325e and for big band music and jazz and easy listening songs from the 50s, these are my go to. The tuning is perfect for it.
The RS2e add a pinch of warmth and a slight toning of the highs, it’s more refined, it is a better all rounder, it is the best Grado I have heard, but I haven’t heard the X lineup.
Thanks for the impressions.
I have the SR125 (used to believe these were 125i but in fact I think these are actually 125) and the pads were uncomfortable. I replaced them with the flat S-pads from SR60 and I find them much more user-friendly. The pads used here in your video I believe are the G-cushions which come as stock in their top models. The SR325 come with L-pads as stock. S-pads will bring them closer to the ear if you seek that extra punchy bass however the S pads are poor quality and will wear out quickly. L-pads are made of different foam and mine have turned into powder after I left them disused for some time. The pads literally de-materialised.
I tried the Grado sr325x recently and wow! These have become my favourite way to listen to music with one exception.
The Grado's have knocked aside my Edifier stax spirit s3, 7hz timeless and Audeze LCD2 for extended listening for enjoyment (using 3 different sources from headphone amp, Sony dap and v60 phone and using WAV source files). They're light and comfortable. And to listen to is fun and personal.
The only thing I have that matches this are the shure se846 (8 years old). They which have the intimacy and also the detail, staging and sheer enjoyment.
Hello Grado!
Awesomeness! Thanks for the impressions.
@@TheHonestAudiophile and thanks for your reviews, they're informative and enjoyable to listen to.
My pleasure, you're welcome. I'm glad you enjoy the channel and find the content helpful. Thank you for the kind words.
Awesome review. I just ordered mine. I've had the sr125e for several years but wanted to step up. I also ordered some aftermarket pads to experiment with.
Awesomeness. Glad you enjoyed the video and found it helpful. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and impressions. Larger pads definitely help.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
I've had them 4 days now. I think they are great phones. I didn't find them harsh at all (I'm only 29 so I'm still pretty sensitive to higher frequencies). The Soundstage is more open than the SR125e. It's more airy. The bass is fine, maybe slightly improved from the SR125. I have my sound EQued on my phone to suit my taste. Mostly listen to rock, metal, and classic country. The stock pads are rough, so I replaced them with aftermarket L pads which are softer & helped with comfort. I like the leather headband. It's not much, but helps with longer listening.
Now, that was tested on my phone. I plugged them into my vintage Sansui 661 receiver and put on The Wall. I was absolutely blown away! The bass was set at +3 and it was waayy too much! I had to turn it down to -3 and it was much better. These phones are more than capable when paired with high quality audio components.
Currently looking at a portable DAC, but the one I just bought won't work with my Galaxy A50.
Awesomeness. Thanks for the impressions. I am glad you enjoy them.
I recommend the xDuoo Link and Nextdrive Spectra X dongles.
Just found this vid, good review. I have the 325 for a long time and its "musical" and has enough details. The larger replacement pad seen on the vid when compared with the smaller original L pad, sounds quieter! Strictly speaking the 325 is a on-ear headphone rather than over-ear unless you change to a larger pad like the one seen here but at the expense of cranking up the vol..
Thank you for the kind words, greatly appreciated ♥️ Thanks for the impressions.
Nice review. I liked your tonal and imaging descriptions. How would you compare the tonal balance of these with the sr80?
Thank you for watching and the kind words. These are the only Grado's I have ever heard so I can't give a comparison to the SR80, sorry.
You describe their sound pretty darned perfectly. Bass is a little weak because of the larger pads, as trellusg stated.
Thank you
This is a very good headphone. I also have the RS2e which sounds like they took a 325e and made it sound better: Smoother, more refined.
By the way, the big pads do not sound good on the RS2e like they do on the 325e. The big pads make the RS2e too bright at higher volumes
After listening to them for hours and hours... they ripped all your high frequency stereocilia out of your cochlea which made you hf deaf. This is why they began to sound better lol. Good review dave xx
Bass is incredible with the SR325e!
I'm glad you enjoy them. An unique and fantastic headphone for sure.
That’s the headphone I have. Absolutely love them.
Awesomeness Excellent choice.
David Sylvia I also have Audeze iSine20, which are so much more detailed than Grados, but less punchier in the bass. I still like SR325 for Rock music, and yes, with the stock pads, they have the perfect amount of deep punch bass. I’m not a bass head ...
HipHop doesn’t sound as deep as it should. On rare occasions I wish they had a tad more bass on some EDM songs. But it’s not an issue at all. I never get tired of listening to them.
I love my iSine10 but do wish for a little more punch at times.
David Sylvia Yeah, I know what you mean. I find the larger tips to give me more bass compared the the medium and small ones. I use the medium tips on my set.
@@Marian1st. I find that the medium tips work best for me as well.
I have both pads too and the large ones are more comfortable. But you sacrifice the sound a little. It’s less punchier than it is with the original pads.
I love the retro look.
I use them to play on my Roland td-30! Amazing sound! Looks like real Drums!
Awesomeness. I am glad you enjoy them.
Very enjoyable review, love the grados also sennheisers, thank you baz 🇬🇧
My pleasure, you're welcome. Glad you enjoyed the review.
loved the reference to HD700.....thank you!!
Thank you for the kind words and you are welcome.
This is great! Im super curious about these cans now. Having the sr80e, I'm looking for something else in the grado line and the metal construction of these sound inviting.
Awesomeness. I don't have my experience with Grado but would like the chance to hear more of their gear.
I've got these with the smaller plug. Overall I really like them, but wouldn't mind heavier bass in them. I have only powered them with phones with supposedly quality DACs. Since they're so easy to power I don't think I'm missing too much.
I work in an office and I find being able to hear though them allows me to be more present when needed without someone thinking they're gonna startle me.
Awesomeness. Oh yeah the openness sure comes in handy in a setting like yours. I am glad you enjoy them. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Did you tube them, David? Just curious. I'm a fan of several profiles; i.e., a mix. Never have asked you, your favorite; I know you've mentioned treble; so, more of a bright then, sounding profile? I love a Mids centric-signature on occasion, to mix in; such as, yes, a 600, 650/6xx; but, to me, the best of those, (the HD 600 series) is the 660s (special, IMHO. Don't have a set of my own right now, planning on getting another 😁). But, can also enjoy The t50 mods, t20rp, and etc, for some planar bass; and any cans, that boast a bass with soundstage, I'm a sucker for. Used to be sensitive to treble; but not now, hence, where I feel the HD 660s, sets itself apart in the 600 series from the others, more clear treble detail, IMHO, in listening. Since having got more 2 feet planted into the hobby, I love the details now. Obviously, so long as it doesn't have a true and undoubtedly verified symbalance.
Never got to hear the hd 700's, they hard to find. Doable; but not many out there (fairly knowing those who have them, like them and don't sell them often). But anyhow, sorry for rambling 😆 great review, enjoyed it as usual David! 👍🏼💯🔥🎧✌🏼
@Joshua Tolliver I did try the Grado SR335 on tubes at some point, might not have been during this review. I actually quite like them on my APPJ PA1502A and the Cavalli CTH.
Sennheiser 660s I have heard a few times in passing and do enjoy it, really need to get it in for a review.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Oh that's great. Yes, like tubes. Like 660s; haven't tried these specific grados, but they do sound interesting.
Low C organ kicks butt with the 325e.
325E with tape mod is the beast!
The ear pads definitely impact the sound signature... with the stock L earpads the bass is slightly more emphasized and the soundstage is somewhat smaller.
Thank you for the clarification on pad differences.
That's exactly my observation. Also, you may or may not have noticed, but in addition to the larger soundstage with the larger pads, and somewhat less upper bass, the vocals become more focused. I noticed this on several recordings, and preferred the larger pads in some ways for this reason. Switching back to the smaller pads gives you a whole other sound...bass is more full, and vocals are right up front. I liked them..owned them twice. But, ultimately sold them twice, too.
@@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio I haven't had the chance to hear them with the smaller ear foams in several months. But if I get the chance again, I will keep that observation in mind.
The big pads make a completely different sound.
They make a sound I like 😁
Hi from Wales. I have the 125 headphones. I like them but a bit uncomfortable and as you said big thick cables.
I haven't heard the sr125 yet. But I have heard the sr80 and sr325.
I'd like to see your thoughts on the SR60e or SR80e.
I should get a pair of either of those in for review. Thanks for the suggestion.
9:03 for sound review
Fantastic reviu
Thank you
Thank you very much for your review
I'm tempted to buy Grado Headphones
I listen almost exclusively to Psychedelic Blues-rock Vintage music focused on overdiven electric Guitar tone (Cream/Jimi Hendrix Expericence/Deep Purple/Rory Gallagher ecc) and I'm searching for an headphone with controlled Bass response, Great MIDS (flat opr +1db) And high frequencies not emphasized.
I know Grado are great pair of headphones for the genre of music I'm Into BUT Highs are a problem for me..I like detail and clarity but not too much.
What If I purchase a LITTLE DOT valvolar ampli?Maybe I can contain the high frequencies?
I would also consider buying Sennhaiser HD600..250 ohm instead of 32 Ohm of the grado but not too Trebly like Grado
Thank for your attention
Yes, a tube amp could help with the highs of a Grado and also HD600 sound amazing on tube amps. I haven't heard the amp you referenced.
The large pads "mellow" the somewhat harsh sound (without sacrificing detail), making them, to my ears at least, good for classical (and most other acoustic) music.
Awesomeness. I am glad you are enjoying them.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Nice review. These might be for me.The cable is my only concern.👍🏻
Thank you for watching and the kind words. Yes that cable is annoying.
Took the plunge and bought these,and,as far as I’m concerned..............the cable can be twice as thick if it makes them sound the way they do. Sound fantastic with an ancient Marantz Pearl Lite CD player and a Graham Slee headphone amp.Thanks for the very helpful review!
@@jmcc2275 I am glad that you like them 😁 If you can get some G Cush pads that should improve the comfort.
Could you please review Grado SR325is vs SR325e vs. SR325x ?
Thanks for the suggestion.
@@TheHonestAudiophile ruclips.net/video/8y5CojhLGiE/видео.html
How do these compare to 325x ??
Sorry haven't heard the 325x
Thank you
My pleasure, you're welcome
What tracks do you listen to when reviewing headphones? have you heard "Host Of Seraphim" ? It starts with a violent synth piano chord that goes on forever and can be quite badly reproduced by different speakers/headphones. Then there are moments when the singer's voice fades away with reverb/echo which is also not easily recreated by all systems. For decoding multiple layers of sounds and hidden background sounds I use Nine Inch Nails -The Fragile album which is absolutely full of background sounds that can sound blurry on poor systems.
Music recommendations:
tidal.com/browse/playlist/5bbf80ce-33f3-4222-a1fc-6539a95415d6 (in order of playlist)
Tingvall Trio “Beat” - piano tonality
Sinne Eeg “We’ve Just Begun” - multiple layer soundstage
Molly Johnson “What a Little Moonlight Can Do” - female vocal tone
Leslie Odom Jr. “Under Pressure” - male vocal tone
Eric Clapton “Change the World” - soundstage, layering and placement
Yo Yo Ma “Ecstasy of Gold” - acoustic instrument timbre
Adam Baldych “Spem in Alium” - acoustic instrument timbre
Pain of Salvation “Stress” - percussion balance
Michael Buble “When I Fall in Love” - orchestral dynamics
Patricia Barber “Code Cool” - sibilance check
Christian Scott “New New Orleans” - shouty upper mids
Tool “Chocolate Chip Trip” - imaging
Hans Zimmer “Why So Serious” - sub bass extension
Marcus Miller “No Limit” - bass control
Dave Holland Quartet “Conference Of The Birds”- bass check
Ilhan Eshkeri “47 Ronin”- orchestra and bass dynamics
Hans Zimmer :2049” - sub bass extension
Cher: Believe - sibilance
Stanley Clarke - Passenger 57 main title - percussion, bass, seperation and placement
Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra - The Pine of the Appian Way - soundstage, imaging and seperation
Houston Person - You are my Sunshine - tone and timbre
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thanks, I will check this out! I like that you added description to each track for what they used for.
My pleasure, you are welcome.
Correct these won't entertain bad recordings. Icy as all hell on upper treble.
But.. these cans with suited tracks will reward beyond.
Those look like Grado G cushion ear pads - they come stock with some higher end Grado models like the GS1000
Thanks for the information, good to know.
How much do you think they're wort (used) right now, bearing in mind that the 325e-s are out?
@Akos Zorin I would say somewhere around, used $125-150 new $175-200
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thank you very much, I saw one on ebay for 125, in this case I won't go over 150, especially since the shipping itself is about 15-20 bucks
Anyone who says Grado headphones are too bright hasn't paired them with the right equipment or hasn't spent enough time with them.
The SR325e don't come with the G Cushions so good move on the part of the owner.
The other obvious upgrade is to pad the headband for added comfort.
Very true, Grado headphones can be gear dependant just like a lot of other gear. I also agree that headband comfort is a must, ZMF Pilot pad works well.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
I recently sold my SR225e and I already regret it. I'll get the 325 when I have the money. Have you had a chance to review the Philips Fidelio that sort of have a similar style?
www.usa.philips.com/c-p/X2HR_00/fidelio-fidelio-headphones
@@MCMTL The only Fidelio I have reviewed is the X2HR.
ruclips.net/video/RgreIwpDyeM/видео.html
@@TheHonestAudiophile Cool. I'm interested in that model, although I've never seen it in stores here in Montreal. Honestly, the best headphones I've heard so far are Audeze LCD-X paired with a AudioQuest DragoFly Cobalt running Tidal Hifi. It was like being on a cloud.
@@MCMTL Audeze LCD-X is my favorite Audeze I've heard. I'd love to get a pair in for review.
Grados are strange. SR80s are the first headphones I ever had that wowed me and that I could afford at the time. But times have changed and I question why they haven’t improved on their overall design in anyway. There’s a factory tour somewhere on RUclips and it looks like they’re still assembled in something akin to a dusty cobblers workshop in Brooklyn throwing on the same tired old scratchy pads onto metal rods. My pair broke long ago and if I had to demo them again I doubt I’d be impressed as there’s so many other great options out there right now that have caught up and surpassed them.
I remember seeing that workshop tour, it was interesting insight for sure.
I like some Grado that I have heard at random times. They are a unique sound for sure.
I honestly love the design, the only annoying thing about the rods is that if you have long hair and you put the headphones around your neck, they'll get caught in your hair if they twist around lol. The pads could use work for sure.
Are these better than Sundara?
The Sundara have better bass and detail retrieval.
I haven't done a side by side comparison though. Interesting if I can get them both in house and do a comparison
I watched 42 seconds. Wrong earpads. Those make SR325 sounds horrible. Everything wrong with just explodes even further. Those needs to be pushed as flat Tony our ear as possible. That will tame the peak in upper mids, boost lower mids and mid bass tremendously making them one of the best headphones of all time. You can actually hear everything plus the sound is moving.
Wow a whole 42 seconds! You didn't even get to hear my impressions. Give a reviewer a chance to tell you their impressions.
i use some modded leather earpads and mine has the fastest most potent bass of any headphones i own
Interesting. Sounds like a fun headphone.
@@TheHonestAudiophile absolutely is and I added a lambskin headband from zmf to complete the transformation...
They now outperform pretty much anything I own .
@@turbomustang84 awesome. Good job on the mod 👍
Cables came folded.
The kinks in the cable remain despite massaging for over a month... pretty disappointing and a complete put off for me used to premium best in class products...
I have the sr80's same problems with the cables but a far superior, transparent open and immediate headphone... buy it and don't believe the sales hype of more expensive offerings
as crazy as this sound i have a more exciting sound from my $30 zs10 pro vs my $300 sr325e (but of course has less detail and clarity) , stock pad have the same shape but dual foam density, the replacement pad you have is the cheapo $10 copy using single foam density. agree they are nice for classical and rock but not for techno because it lacks the required huge bumpy subbass you get with a $26 blon 03
@amanieux "more exciting" as in more treble energy?
I agree the bass is more mid bass emphasis then sub bass. Grado do sound good for rock and classical, my two music preferences.
@@TheHonestAudiophile grado is already a colored non analytical non flat headphone this is why i picked grado as this was more lively to me but v or u or w shaped chifi is even a step more lively to my ears, this is why i resold my grado
Love mine but they broke after a year of use. The headband broke right at the cheap plastic boxes they use to secure the headband and ear pieces. Called the company, emailed them, left negative reviews all over social media and zero response from Grado. I will never buy another product from them again!
Sorry to hear that.
It's pronounced Grédo.
A non-detachable cable is a no go for me...on any headphone. C’mon Grado
I am not aware of any Grado that has detachable cables. Tradition, tradition.
I can not recommend SR325is hedphones. These are my worst pair of headphones. Sound quality is bad and sound is veiled. Highs are extremely shouty. Lows are just not there. Both built quality and comfort are just horrifying. Looks are nice. And price is just much too much for this package 500 usd here in Europe.
Worst review on quality of sound. All I heard was I hate the way the feel and look. Didn’t help any on whether I should buy or not.
Thank you for watching this very old video. Sorry you didn't find the video helpful.
You don't sound enthusiastic and don't look enthusiastic either.
Why are you filling your face with coffee? I don't want to hear you slurping and slapping. Next.
Drinking coffee during the review video is kind of a thing for me, it started early on in the channels life and has stuck. Everyone has a style and approach.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Wow what a terrible review.
Would you care to explain your reason for saying it was a terrible review?
@@TheHonestAudiophile Used equipment, non-oem parts and you have a face for radio.
What is wrong with using "used equipment"? The headphones were sent in to the channel for review. "Non-Oem parts"really? The user sent them to me and I was very clear on the fact. "Face for radio" wow that is a low blow, keep the hands above the belt.
@@TheHonestAudiophile excellent review David ... I have owned the original SR80 headphones for about 7 years and have grown to love the sound. I'm looking to upgrade to the SR325 units but I'm a bit confused about the ear pads. Are the pads on the review headphones Grado G Cush or something else? ... and if they are not Grado would it be possible for you to investigate the model and source ... cheers from downunder.
@@gregmcconnell6824 Thanks for the kind words. I will ask the subscriber who sent those in for review for the pad information. I will get back to you as soon as I learn something.