some brief impressions of the Grado HP2 with Bal APS v.3 cable and flats, of course. i have heard the HP2 (and HP1) on several occasions, but this is my first extended audition with them. a big shout out to Asr. not many people would lend $1500 headphones to someone, but that's how he rolls.
[size=xx-small][from aps website][/size]
like other grados, the HP2 has a very upfront presentation. the singers/players are right there. i would say the sound stage in terms of depth - front to back - is no larger or smaller than my other grado headphones (SR325, RS1, RS2). one difference where the HP2 appears to outperform is width. the left to right presentation is far wider, which allows for much better instrument/voice separation but the overall imaging is still frustrated due to the narrow depth. this, however, is part of the grado signature sound - not including the GS1K, which in contrast with its quite large sound stage and non upfront presentation seem quite different.
there is a lot of energy (and treble energy) to these phones. the sound is a bit forceful. i would say the RS1/RS2 is warmer and although just as forward somehow slightly more laid back. the bass on the HP2 is very good. it is tight - some of the most focused bass i have heard. there is some impact to it as well. the resolution and detail is also top notch. voices sound very natural too. i think grados in general do guitar better than any other headphone and the HP2 is no exception. piano is no slouch either on these. overall, a very nice tone. in terms of fit and comfort, the all metal design does not feel heavy on my head and the fit is nice and snug. i think i could wear these headphones for a longer period of time than my other grados. the build quality is first rate as well. they feel very sturdy and look very well put together, which is important when dealing with an item at this price level.
as for possible faults, there could be a few. as mentioned, the sound is full of energy (quite forceful). the headphone's forward and assertive tendencies could wear one out after some time. also, there seems to be a touch of brightness to some of the higher frequencies. another item that could lead to listener fatigue. and the sound stage is near non existent, but that is to be expected. one complaint that is often lodged against the HP1000 is that it can sound too clinical. i'm not sure about this one. they seem far from boring. overall, i would say the sound is very pleasing - good resolution, taut bass, and with a clean (uncolored) tone. seem worth their price tag.
i hope to sometime next week compare them more closely to my woodied SR325, which is also balanced, but for now, that's it.