Grado Signature HP100 SE Headphone

Grado Labs presents the Signature HP100 SE: A tribute to Joseph Grado and a milestone in audio technology

Grado Labs, a world-renowned manufacturer of award-winning headphones, is launching its latest and most prestigious model, the Signature HP100 SE. This model was developed to honor the 100th birthday of company founder Joseph Grado and to celebrate his contribution to audio technology. Considered a pioneer of the high-end headphone market, Joseph Grado set new standards with the introduction of the Signature HP1 in the early 1990s. Current CEO and Joseph Grado's nephew, John Grado, pays tribute to him with the words: "Even though Uncle Joe left us ten years ago, he will always be a part of Grado Labs."

Newly developed driver for exceptional sound

At the heart of the Signature HP100 SE is a completely redesigned 52mm driver. Grado's goal was to create a speaker that offers exceptional high frequency resolution, smooth mids and powerful bass with minimal distortion. The result is a sound that is musically and harmonically perfectly balanced.

To achieve this, a paper composite diaphragm was selected, combined with a powerful rare earth magnetic circuit and a new copper-clad aluminum voice coil. This combination enables excellent dynamics, precise transient reproduction, and impressive spatiality, soundstage and imaging.

Modern housing design and removable cables

The Signature HP100 SE combines the familiar aesthetics of the classic HP1/2/3 models with a modern twist. Each housing is individually crafted from specially treated aluminum, with the product name finely engraved on the front. The headphones are available in a sleek space gray finish that adds a touch of sophistication.

For the first time, Grado is offering a model with detachable cables. Compared to the cables previously used in the Statement series, the new cables have a softer but durable braided jacket. This ensures better flexibility and reduces the overall weight.

The standard cable terminates in a 6.3mm jack plug and connects to the enclosures via a 4-pin mini XLR plug. Additional cable options will be available in the future, including 4-pin XLR plugs, 4.4mm balanced plugs, and various cable lengths. This flexibility allows users to customize the cable to their individual needs.

Revised headband for maximum comfort

The headband of the Signature HP100 SE has been completely redesigned compared to the classic models to ensure maximum comfort. With 50% more padding than previous designs, the new headband ensures a comfortable fit, even during longer listening sessions.

A stainless steel band and adjustable elevation rods offer the ability to customize the fit and minimize fatigue. The gimbals that hold the case are made of aluminum alloy and engraved. The stainless steel elevation rods ensure stability at the contact points and prevent slipping out of the joint blocks in case the zinc alloy end caps are damaged. In addition, a special mechanism limits the case rotation to 105 degrees to prevent wear.

A tribute to innovation and tradition

With the Signature HP100 SE, Grado Labs sets new standards in audio technology while remaining true to its roots. The model combines advanced technical developments with a design that honors the tradition and legacy of Joseph Grado. The launch of these headphones not only marks a technological advancement, but also a monument to the innovations that have characterized Grado Labs over the decades.

features

• NEW 52mm dynamic driver
• Handcrafted aluminum housing
• White stitched leather headband
• Driver tuned to 0.04 dB
• NEW detachable 12-wire cable
• G-pads and F-style pads
• Hand assembled in Brooklyn, NY, USA

TECHNICAL DATA

• Converter type: Dynamic
• Functional principle: Open design
• Frequency range: 3.5 Hz – 51.5 kHz
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <0.1% @ 100dB
• SPL 1mW: 117 dB
• Nominal impedance: 38 ohms
• Driver size: 52 mm
• Driver tuning: 0.04 dB
• Cable type: Detachable 12-wire cable
• Headphone jack: 4-pin mini XLR
• Source connection: 6.3 mm
• G-pads and F-style pads included