{"id":7042,"date":"2025-05-07T03:16:21","date_gmt":"2025-05-06T18:16:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042"},"modified":"2025-05-07T03:16:21","modified_gmt":"2025-05-06T18:16:21","slug":"grado-s950-signature-headphones-assessment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042","title":{"rendered":"Grado S950 Signature Headphones Assessment"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<p><meta charset=\"UTF-8\"\/>Debuting at CanJam NYC 2025, the <a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/grado-signature-s950-headphone\" title=\"Grado Signature S950 Headphone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Grado S950 Signature headphones<\/a> rapidly captured the eye of high-end audio fanatics and seasoned audiophiles. Priced at $2,195, these open-back dynamic headphones promise a spacious and detailed soundstage whereas retaining the unmistakable Grado sound signature. Whether or not you are an avid collector or exploring high-resolution headphone listening, the S950 Signature brings one thing distinctive to the desk.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_53 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\" role=\"button\"><label for=\"item-6a6cec400347a\" ><span class=\"\"><span style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input aria-label=\"Toggle\" aria-label=\"item-6a6cec400347a\"  type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item-6a6cec400347a\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#What%E2%80%99s_within_the_Field\" title=\"What\u2019s within the Field\">What\u2019s within the Field<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Design_and_Construct_High_quality\" title=\"Design and Construct High quality\">Design and Construct High quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Technical_Specs\" title=\"Technical Specs\">Technical Specs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Sound_High_quality_Impressions\" title=\"Sound High quality Impressions\">Sound High quality Impressions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3'><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Soundstage_and_Imaging\" title=\"Soundstage and Imaging\">Soundstage and Imaging<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Bass_Response\" title=\"Bass Response\">Bass Response<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Midrange_Efficiency\" title=\"Midrange Efficiency\">Midrange Efficiency<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Treble_Readability\" title=\"Treble Readability\">Treble Readability<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Greatest_DAC_Amplifier_Pairings\" title=\"Greatest DAC &amp; Amplifier Pairings\">Greatest DAC &amp; Amplifier Pairings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/?p=7042\/#Last_Ideas\" title=\"Last Ideas\">Last Ideas<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 data-end=\"807\" data-start=\"786\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What%E2%80%99s_within_the_Field\"><\/span>What\u2019s within the Field<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"><span>Grado S950 Headphones<\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"><span>Cable Kind: Grado Gold removable cable<\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"><span>Headphone Connection: 4pin Mini XLR<\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"><span>Supply Connection: 6.3 mm<\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" role=\"presentation\"><span>Earpad Provided: G Cushions and F Cushions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_7.jpg?v=1746216611\" alt=\"\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"1037\" data-end=\"1065\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Design_and_Construct_High_quality\"><\/span>Design and Construct High quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1067\" data-end=\"1488\" class=\"\">The S950 Signature maintains the traditional Grado aesthetic seen of their premium lineup. The big, spherical earcups function a mixture of retro design and fashionable performance, full with a sturdy adjustable headband and interchangeable cushions. You\u2019ll obtain each G Cushions for an over-ear expertise and F Cushions for a extra conventional on-ear match\u2014offering flexibility primarily based on consolation and sonic choice.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1490\" data-end=\"1734\" class=\"\">Grado has lengthy been recognized for his or her mounted cables, however the S950 encompasses a welcome replace: a removable cable system utilizing mini XLR connectors. This enables for personalisation and alternative choices, giving it a contemporary edge over older fashions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1940\" class=\"\">Whereas the construct high quality is strong and light-weight, prolonged listening periods would possibly introduce some fatigue. Choosing the bigger G Cushions helps distribute the load extra comfortably over lengthy intervals.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1736\" data-end=\"1940\" class=\"\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_5.jpg?v=1746216611\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"1947\" data-end=\"1975\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Technical_Specs\"><\/span>Technical Specs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul data-start=\"1977\" data-end=\"2290\">\n<li data-start=\"1977\" data-end=\"2009\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"1979\" data-end=\"1998\">Transducer Kind<\/strong>: Dynamic<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2010\" data-end=\"2048\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2012\" data-end=\"2035\">Working Precept<\/strong>: Open-back<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2049\" data-end=\"2094\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2051\" data-end=\"2073\">Frequency Response<\/strong>: 3.5 Hz \u2013 51.5 kHz<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2095\" data-end=\"2149\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2097\" data-end=\"2132\">Whole Harmonic Distortion (THD)<\/strong>: &lt;0.1% @100 dB<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2150\" data-end=\"2192\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2152\" data-end=\"2182\">Sound Stress Degree (SPL)<\/strong>: 117 dB<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2193\" data-end=\"2224\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2195\" data-end=\"2216\">Nominal Impedance<\/strong>: 38 \u03a9<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2225\" data-end=\"2251\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2227\" data-end=\"2242\">Driver Dimension<\/strong>: 52 mm<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2290\" class=\"\">\n<strong data-start=\"2254\" data-end=\"2282\">Matched Driver Tolerance<\/strong>: 0.4 dB<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_1.jpg?v=1746216605\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<h2 data-end=\"214\" data-start=\"185\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sound_High_quality_Impressions\"><\/span>Sound High quality Impressions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 data-end=\"245\" data-start=\"216\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Soundstage_and_Imaging\"><\/span>Soundstage and Imaging<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"894\" data-start=\"246\">The Grado S950 Signature excels in certainly one of Grado&#8217;s most celebrated traits: a large, immersive soundstage. From the very first pay attention, it\u2019s clear that these headphones are engineered to create a way of openness and depth that rivals even some planar magnetic and electrostatic fashions. The left-to-right width is pronounced, however extra spectacular is the front-to-back layering\u2014the headphones don\u2019t simply unfold sound horizontally, however give tracks an actual sense of dimensionality. When listening to well-mastered dwell recordings or ambient soundscapes, devices and vocals really feel suspended in a clearly outlined three-dimensional house.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"1400\" data-start=\"896\">Imaging is tight and articulate, permitting you to exactly find devices throughout the stereo discipline. Hello-hats keep locked to at least one facet, backing vocals wrap across the combine, and pianos stretch throughout the soundstage with satisfying realism. This makes the S950 Signature notably compelling for orchestral works, digital compositions, and spatially engineered pop mixes. In the event you&#8217;re into immersive experiences or headphone mixes with detailed placement, that is the place the S950 shines the brightest.<\/p>\n<h3 data-end=\"1427\" data-start=\"1407\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bass_Response\"><\/span>Bass Response<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"1910\" data-start=\"1428\">The bass presentation is refined, articulate, and barely heat, sustaining a managed character that favors element over sheer amount. Sub-bass extension is current, and it would not roll off too all of the sudden when reaching into the deepest subterranean areas. This implies extremely bass-heavy tracks like lure, EDM, or dubstep could not hit with the physicality some listeners crave. Nevertheless, in genres like jazz, classical, and acoustic rock, the bass feels pure, musical, and appropriately weighted.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"2389\" data-start=\"1912\">There is a sure \u201cdryness\u201d to the bass character that retains it from smearing throughout the soundstage. As an alternative of bloom or rumble, you get a decent, nuanced response\u2014bass guitar plucks are well-articulated, and upright bass resonates with an natural timbre. The low finish by no means crowds the mids or treble, permitting different frequencies to breathe. This steadiness is ideal for analytical listening or for individuals who need bass that helps slightly than dominates the musical panorama.<\/p>\n<h3 data-end=\"2423\" data-start=\"2396\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Midrange_Efficiency\"><\/span>Midrange Efficiency<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"2940\" data-start=\"2424\">The midrange on the S950 Signature is recessed, forming a noticeable dip within the frequency response that contributes to its U-shaped tuning. Vocals, guitars, and mid-forward devices take a step again within the combine, which can come off as distant or under-emphasized, notably when you&#8217;re accustomed to mid-centric headphones. This tuning determination gives the look of elevated spatial depth, however it will probably additionally introduce a way of hollowness or nasality relying on the monitor and supply tools.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"3390\" data-start=\"2942\">Vocals, particularly feminine voices, typically tackle a barely metallic or brittle edge when mixed with the headphone\u2019s ahead treble. Male vocals, however, can really feel chesty however withdrawn. That mentioned, there\u2019s nonetheless a very good quantity of element retrieval within the mids\u2014strings and pianos keep readability, and dialogue in movie or podcasts is intelligible, although not as intimate or emotional because it may very well be with a flatter midrange response.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"3660\" data-start=\"3392\">This tuning won&#8217;t swimsuit vocal-forward genres like soul, indie rock, or singer-songwriter music, the place emotional nuance is vital. Nevertheless, in complicated mixes or digital productions, the pulled-back mids may help declutter the soundstage and emphasize spatial results.<\/p>\n<h3 data-end=\"3688\" data-start=\"3667\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Treble_Readability\"><\/span>Treble Readability<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"4066\" data-start=\"3689\">The treble on the Grado S950 Signature is obvious, ethereal, and unapologetically ahead. It delivers the type of top-end sparkle that makes cymbals shimmer and synths shine, and it\u2019s a significant contributor to the headphone\u2019s holographic imaging. Decision is excessive\u2014ambient particulars like reverb tails, hi-hat decay, and refined background textures come by way of with beautiful readability.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"4408\" data-start=\"4068\">Nevertheless, the treble tuning just isn&#8217;t with out its dangers. On brighter tracks or poor recordings, the S950 Signature can come throughout as harsh or fatiguing, notably at increased volumes. Sibilance is extra obvious with sure vocalists, and aggressive guitar tones or snappy percussion can sound piercing and not using a heat supply to tame them.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"4756\" data-start=\"4410\">That mentioned, pairing the S950 with a smoother amp or DAC\u2014like a tube-based system\u2014can work wonders in softening the sides with out sacrificing element. For listeners who take pleasure in micro-detail, airiness, and prolonged highs, the S950 delivers in spades. However for individuals who are treble-sensitive, warning is suggested\u2014particularly throughout lengthy listening periods.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"4756\" data-start=\"4410\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_6.jpg?v=1746216609\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<h2 data-end=\"3762\" data-start=\"3729\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Greatest_DAC_Amplifier_Pairings\"><\/span>Greatest DAC &amp; Amplifier Pairings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p class=\"\" data-end=\"3963\" data-start=\"3764\">Whereas the S950 Signature is environment friendly sufficient to run from transportable sources, it actually shines when paired with high-quality desktop tools. Utilizing a dongle DAC won&#8217;t unlock its full potential.<\/p>\n<ul data-end=\"4258\" data-start=\"3965\">\n<li class=\"\" data-end=\"4151\" data-start=\"3965\">\n<strong data-end=\"3983\" data-start=\"3967\">Greatest Pairing<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/woo-audio-wa7-fireflies-3rd-gen-amp-dac\" title=\"Woo Audio WA7 Fireflies (3rd Gen) Balanced Pre-amp\/Amp\/DAC\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong data-end=\"4012\" data-start=\"3985\">Woo Audio WA7 Fireflies<\/strong> <\/a>\u2013 a tube amp that provides heat and smoothness to the treble, balancing out the headphone\u2019s brightness whereas enhancing its low-end richness.<\/li>\n<li class=\"\" data-end=\"4258\" data-start=\"4152\">Different nice choices: FiiO K17 or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/chord-electronics-mojo-2-portable-dac-headphone-amplifier\" title=\"Chord Electronics MOJO 2 Portable DAC\/Headphone Amplifier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chord Mojo 2<\/a> for impartial or clear amplification.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_9.jpg?v=1746216610\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"4265\" data-end=\"4283\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Last_Ideas\"><\/span>Last Ideas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4285\" data-end=\"4726\" class=\"\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/grado-signature-s950-headphone\" title=\"Grado Signature S950 Headphone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Grado S950 Signature<\/a> is a premium headphone made for element lovers and spatial audio followers. Whereas its scooped mids and energetic treble will not enchantment to each listener, it presents an immersive and uniquely Grado listening expertise that\u2019s preferrred for digital, ambient, and jazz kinds. In the event you\u2019re working with a tube amp or searching for a high-end headphone that prioritizes openness and sparkle, the S950 is effectively price an audition.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4285\" data-end=\"4726\" class=\"\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/products\/grado-signature-s950-headphone\" title=\"Grado Signature S950 Headphone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Grado S950 Signature<\/a> is accessible at <a href=\"https:\/\/audio46.com\/\" title=\"Audio46\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Audio46<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4285\" data-end=\"4726\" class=\"\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0065\/4432\/6771\/files\/s950_3.jpg?v=1746216604\" alt=\"\"><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Debuting at CanJam NYC 2025, the Grado S950 Signature headphones rapidly captured the eye of high-end audio fanatics and seasoned audiophiles. Priced at $2,195, these open-back dynamic headphones promise a spacious and detailed soundstage whereas retaining the unmistakable Grado sound signature. Whether or not you are an avid collector or exploring high-resolution headphone listening, the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7044,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[18],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7042","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-audio-devices"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7042","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=7042"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7042\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7043,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7042\/revisions\/7043"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/7044"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=7042"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=7042"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/aireviewirush.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=7042"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}