Grado's New Classic Series Headphones with X2 Drivers: A Wired Audio Revival

For those who haven't traded their wired headphones for Bluetooth, Grado's latest Classic Series offers refreshed drivers promising stellar sound quality.

If you're like me—a wired headphone enthusiast who's never quite bought into the Bluetooth revolution—then Grado’s latest announcement might just be music to your ears. The legendary audiophile brand has unveiled an upgraded line within their Classic Series, uniting some of their most beloved wired models under a single banner and equipping them all with the brand-new Grado X2 drivers headphones.

The New Classic Series: A Fresh Take on Familiar Favorites

Grado’s Classic Series isn’t just a simple rebrand; it’s a thoughtful overhaul focusing on sound precision and durability. The lineup features award-winning models that many of us audiophiles have cherished over the years. Among them are the SR325x headphones, the accessible SR80x headphones, and the coveted GS3000x headphones—headphones that have consistently garnered high praise. These new versions will replace all existing "x" model iterations.

At the heart of this refreshed lineup is the X2 driver architecture. Grado’s engineers promise this new tech delivers greater stability, improved accuracy, and enhanced detail in sound reproduction. The result? Cleaner audio output, an expanded soundstage, and a perfectly balanced listening experience that honors Grado’s signature dynamic delivery.

Each headphone model receives custom tuning tailored to its unique casing, ensuring a lively and captivating sound across the board. And rest assured, the energy and dynamism that Grado fans adore remain intact.

Upgraded Comfort and Build: More Than Just Sound

But it's not just what's inside that counts. Grado has also upgraded the cable design, borrowing innovations from their premium Signature line. The new cables are lighter, softer, and more robust—meaning fewer tangles and better longevity for daily use.

Comfort-wise, the new series sports improved headbands engineered to offer superior wearability and endurance. And while these upgrades enhance practicality, the headphones still proudly flaunt the rugged, industrial Brooklyn aesthetic that’s become their trademark.

Classic Series Model Lineup and Availability

By the end of March, seven flagship models will be available globally under the Classic Series banner:

• Grado Classic GS3000
• Grado Classic GS1000
• Grado Classic RS1
• Grado Classic Hemp
• Grado Classic SR325
• Grado Classic SR80
• Grado Classic SR60

As a longtime fan, I’m genuinely curious if the dual-driver X2 design will elevate these well-known headphones to a new sonic plateau without compromising their distinctive character.

“Grado guarantees lively, energetic, and immersive sound throughout the series, preserving the dynamic presentation fans cherish.”

Grado Headphones in Russia: Availability and Pricing

Now, here’s the catch for audiophiles in Russia: Grado headphones aren't officially imported or sold through authorized dealers in the country. Instead, they reach local enthusiasts mainly through parallel imports and private sellers. Despite this, you can often find Grado models on popular marketplaces like Ozon, Wildberries, and Yandex Market, as well as in specialty audiophile shops that accept pre-orders.

Price Ranges for Classic Series Models

Prices for Grado headphones in Russia fluctuate based on currency rates, seller markups, and model specifics. Here are rough estimates converted from rubles to USD for the new Classic Series models:

• Grado Classic GS3000 — approximately $2,100 to $2,300
• Grado Classic GS1000 — approximately $1,275 to $1,460
• Grado Classic RS1 — approximately $830 to $960
• Grado Classic Hemp — approximately $575 to $705
• Grado Classic SR325 — approximately $380 to $480
• Grado Classic SR80 — approximately $200 to $275
• Grado Classic SR60 — approximately $150 to $220

The SR series models (SR60, SR80, SR125, SR225, SR325) are often more readily available, while top-tier models like the GS3000 and GS1000 usually require ordering with a wait time ranging from two weeks to two months.

Choosing Where to Buy

When hunting for Grado headphones domestically, it’s wise to choose sellers with solid ratings and thorough reviews. Marketplaces sometimes feature offers from private individuals who bring in headphones from the US or Europe, often at lower prices but requiring 50% to 100% prepayment.

Specialized audiophile shops, on the other hand, often operate on full prepayment but justify this by offering official guarantees and handling customs clearance. Their delivery times tend to be longer, around three to six weeks.

Global Versions and Compatibility Notes

Grado produces their headphones in a single global version—there are no region-specific models. The primary consideration for buyers is the power adapter for active headphones. For units shipped from the US, the included plug follows American standards, so sellers usually provide an adapter or notify customers accordingly.

FAQ

• What makes the X2 driver different from previous Grado drivers?
  The X2 driver offers better stability, accuracy, and detail, resulting in clearer sound, a wider soundstage, and improved balance.
• Are the new Classic Series headphones wireless or wired?
  They are fully wired models, continuing Grado’s tradition of cable-dependent audio gear.
• Can I easily purchase Grado Classic Series headphones in Russia?
  Yes, but through parallel imports, private sellers, or specialty stores, not through official dealers.
• Which Grado Classic Series models are most readily available?
  The SR series models (SR60, SR80, SR125, SR225, SR325) are typically more accessible than the flagship GS3000 or GS1000.
• Do Grado headphones come with region-specific power adapters?
  No, Grado headphones come in a global version. Power adapters for US plugs may need an additional converter depending on your region.

If you’re inspired to celebrate your passion for classic wired audio gear, why not decorate your space with a favorite album cover poster? Shop our beautifully curated selection of iconic music art at Architeg Prints to match your sonic vibe.