Head-Fi.org › Forums › Equipment Forums › Headphones (full-size) › Help with Grado lineup!
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

Help with Grado lineup!

post #1 of 11
6/24/06 at 8:13pm
Thread Starter 
After much thought, I have come to the conclusion that Grados are the way to go. It seems widely agreed that they are best for rock, which I mostly listen to. I just don't exactly know how to choose amongst the Grado lineup. I guess I am looking at the 225s, 325is, RS2s, and whatever the comparable Alessandro series phones are. I will probably just run these out of a laptop, but if it would make a big difference, I might consider using an amp or soundcard. Any recommendations on those to go along with specific headphones would also be greatly appreciated. I am kind of afraid of the "brightness" people talk about when they mention Grados, so I was thinking about AKG701s for a little while, but I'm not so sure about that. I listen to mostly music like Weezer, Beatles, Springsteen, RHCP, indie stuff, and occasionally some hip hop. I don't want to put a limit on cost right now, but I only want to pay if it is really worth it...same goes for recabling/headfiling. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Reply
post #2 of 11
6/24/06 at 8:19pm
If you aren't sure I would try the SR 60 to see if you like the sound.
Reply
post #3 of 11
6/24/06 at 8:36pm
Yea if you're really concerned try out the sr-60 just to get an idea. I didn't do this and fortunately was happy with my purchase (which was at the lower end of the spectrum anyways though). From what I've heard out of my MS1s, they aren't as bright as I initially feared they might be. THe best way to describe the sound is just sort in your face and extremely fun. Bass can be punchy and impactful, but without being overbearing. Thats how it is for everything, nothign is overpowering, yet nothing is weak. If you're the kind fo person that likes to be right up there for a concert then I think you'll love whatever model you purchase. I've never actually heard a Grado before so I don't know how different they are from the Alessandro line (it'll be similar but I'm sure there's advantages to each). So I'll cast my vote in support for Alessandro (MS2i seems like it would be excellent. However I have heard rave reviews about the RS2 and that is currently in the running for my next purchase.
Reply
post #4 of 11
6/24/06 at 8:43pm
Thread Starter 
thats very good advice to go with the sr60. i think ill do that. just so i dont need to start another thread in a month though, can people make suggestions assuming i really like the grado sound? that would be great. i guess my main concern is are the differences between models great enough to warrant whatever the price difference is?
Reply
post #5 of 11
6/24/06 at 8:51pm
IMO you should try and buy the Grado SR-60 used or maybe even the Alessandro MS-1 used. There are usually good prices for these cans and I think there might be at least a SR-60 for sale right now in the for sale forums. These cans are usually burned-in and are in good condition.

Take care, Ed.
Reply
post #6 of 11
6/24/06 at 9:15pm
The advice I would add if a person were sure about the Grado sound, but was nervous about brightness, would be to concentrate on the Alessandro MS-1($100)the MS2i($300)or the Grado RS-2($500)

The Alessandros' are more neutral and analytical than the corresponding Grado models, and the RS-2 is just a warmer sounding Grado.

I have the MS-1 and have absolutely no problem with brightness!
Reply
post #7 of 11
6/24/06 at 9:42pm
i got my first pair of grados - SR225 - earlier this week and let me tell you, i don't know what people are talking about in terms of harshness. the 225s are in your face fun with clarity, instrument separation and lows to highs well represented. and just wait to you hear guitar playing on 'em!!!

enjoy!
Reply
post #8 of 11
6/24/06 at 10:24pm
Skip the SR60/80, go for the SR225 then add the RS-2 to the mix. That pairing should keep you satisfied for awhile.
Reply
post #9 of 11
6/24/06 at 11:09pm
The SR225 would be a nice introduction to the Grado house sound to see if you really like it.
Reply
post #10 of 11
6/24/06 at 11:35pm
Yea if you have the cash I'd agree to take the money you might spend on the 60s or 80s and go for the 225 or the ms2i. RS2 seems to be the logical choice for after that. Perhaps you could acquire some HF1s which are supposed to be very nice. (Really wishing I hadn't been on a temporary head-fi absence during the initial sale of those).
Reply
post #11 of 11
6/25/06 at 3:43pm
I have sr125's and I love them Jazz and Instrumental. Orchestral is fine if you keep the volume low-moderate levels. The louder it gets the more overbearing the high's are, especially in the brass. Overall, they're a pleasure to listen to.
Reply
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: Headphones (full-size)
Head-Fi.org › Forums › Equipment Forums › Headphones (full-size) › Help with Grado lineup!