Grado SR325x Headphones Review – Outstanding Detail and Dynamic Sound

Experience the exceptional clarity and vibrant dynamics of Grado SR325x headphones, a standout in wired audio with a rich legacy of detailed performance.

A Legacy of Timeless Evolution

If you've ever been enchanted by the sound of wired headphones that truly respect the essence of music, the Grado SR325x might just be your soulmate. The Grado Prestige line has been a cornerstone for over three decades, captivating audiophiles with its budget-to-midrange offerings. What’s remarkable? Grado’s refusal to chase flashy revolutions in design, instead favoring subtle, evolutionary tweaks—a philosophy that shines through in the SR325x series, which has earned multiple awards from What Hi-Fi? for good reason.

This open-back, over-ear model holds onto that classic look reminiscent of 1940s air traffic controller headsets—an aesthetic choice that sparks debate among listeners and critics alike. But beneath that unassuming exterior lies a finely tuned machine.

Engineering for Pure Sound

Peeling back the layers, the heart of the SR325x is a revamped 44mm dynamic driver. Grado upgraded its magnetic system, diaphragm, and voice coil to boost efficiency and tame distortion. It’s like watching a seasoned craftsman refine his masterpiece ever so slightly each year.

The cable features an 8-strand super annealed copper that promises cleaner signal transmission than previous iterations. While it terminates in a standard 3.5mm jack, Grado thoughtfully bundles a 6.3mm adapter for those more serious setups.

• Driver Type: Dynamic
• Acoustic Design: Open-back
• Frequency Response: 18 Hz – 24 kHz
• Impedance: 38 Ohms

This open design means sound leaks both ways—your music escapes, and outside noise seeps in. So, if you’re planning to listen around others, your sonic bubble might burst, making these headphones best suited for quiet, personal listening spaces.

Comfort: A Love-Hate Affair

At 340 grams, these are not heavy, and their adjustable headband fits a range of head sizes. However, the new flat foam ear pads are a divisive feature. Unlike the plush cushions on many modern models, these thinner pads can feel less luxurious—a reminder that Grado prioritizes function over fluff.

If you’re expecting cushy, noise-isolating over-ears, think again. These are an old-school wired headphone experience, best loved at home rather than on the go.

Longtime Grado fans will recognize the shape but might need a few days to grow accustomed to the new feel. Interestingly, these pads subtly smooth the sound, making it less fatiguing during long sessions.

We tested swapping these new pads onto older SR325 models (including previous “e” and “i” versions) and noticed consistent improvements: sharper highs and tighter, richer bass. It’s like giving a familiar friend a fresh haircut and watching their personality shine even brighter.

Sound That Captivates and Drives

The SR325x isn’t just about comfort tweaks; the sonic upgrades are tangible. Playing Massive Attack’s Heligoland, the headphones reveal cleaner layers and greater transparency than their predecessors.

These wired gems have always excelled in detail and articulation, but the “x” generation takes precision up a notch. You can effortlessly follow quiet instrumental parts, even in dense mixes, while the rhythms remain lively and full of punch.

Thanks to the open-back design, the soundstage breathes with impressive dynamic range. Bass notes are nimble and melodious, though they lack the pounding weight of closed-back headphones. Some might find this a little light in the low end, but that’s the trade-off for spacious, natural sound.

Switching gears to Lana Del Rey’s Chemtrails Over The Country Club, the SR325x captures the texture and warmth of her voice beautifully. The clarity draws you in, creating an immersive atmosphere where you forget you’re wearing headphones at all.

Of course, these headphones crave a high-quality source. The 3.5mm jack might tempt you to plug into a smartphone or laptop, but that won’t unlock the SR325x’s full potential. For truly remarkable audio, pairing with an external DAC and amplifier—think Chord Mojo DAC amplifier or Astell & Kern A&norma SR35 Hi-Res player—is highly recommended.

Our extensive listening tests spanned genres from the soulful Gladys Knight to the raw energy of Nirvana and even Eminem’s slick hip-hop beats. The SR325x rose to the occasion every time, proving its versatility.

Final Thoughts: Evolution Over Revolution

Grado continues to prove that sometimes, slow and steady wins the race. While the $200–400 price bracket has grown crowded with flashy newcomers, these headphones stand firm in delivering precise musical detail and invigorating sound.

Sure, the retro aviation-inspired look won’t charm everyone, and the open-back, wired-only design feels like a throwback in a world enamored with wireless noise-cancelers. But if you’re hunting for a pair of dependable, high-fidelity headphones that prioritize musicality and durability, the SR325x earns a hearty nod.

Ratings

• Sound: 5/5
• Comfort: 4/5
• Build Quality: 4/5

“Grado in another round proves that evolution is a more reliable way to enhance things than a loud design revolution.”

FAQ

• What type of headphones are the Grado SR325x?
  They are open-back, over-ear wired headphones designed for detailed sound reproduction at home.
• Are these headphones suitable for outdoor or travel use?
  Not ideally. Due to their open design and wire dependence, they are better suited for quiet, indoor listening.
• Can I use these headphones with my smartphone?
  You can, but to enjoy their full potential, a quality external DAC and amplifier are recommended.
• How comfortable are the new foam ear pads?
  They take some getting used to but offer a less fatiguing listening experience after a short adjustment period.
• Do the Grado SR325x support noise isolation?
  No, the open-back design allows sound to escape and external noise in, so they do not provide noise isolation.

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