Grado SR80x specifications and in-depth review

Grado SR80x

Manufacturer: Grado

The Grado SR80x headphones are designed for listeners who prefer an on-ear fit with a sleek open-back design. These wired headphones are equipped with 44 mm driver units to deliver a broad frequency range, from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Their open-back construction ensures an immersive listening experience, while the tangle-free cable enhances convenience during use.

Key technical details of the Grado SR80x include a sound pressure level of 98 dB/mW and an impedance of 38 Ohms. These headphones do not include features such as active noise cancellation, spatial audio, or a detachable cable. The design also excludes water resistance and ambient sound modes, focusing on straightforward, high-fidelity audio performance.

Pros
  • The headphones feature an open-back design, providing a more natural and immersive listening experience.
  • The 44 mm driver unit and wide frequency range (20 Hz to 20,000 Hz) deliver clear, full-range audio.
  • The tangle-free cable enhances convenience and reduces hassle during use.
Cons
  • The headphones lack active noise cancellation (ANC), which could impact listening in noisy environments.
  • They do not support spatial audio, limiting the immersive audio experience compared to some other models.
  • The headphones do not have a detachable cable, which could reduce durability over time.
  • There is no water resistance, making them unsuitable for use in wet conditions.
  • The product lacks a travel bag, which could affect portability and protection during transport.
  • These headphones cannot be used as a headset, and there are no built-in microphones for communication.
Who is this for?

The Grado SR80x headphones are ideal for audiophiles or casual listeners who prefer a high-quality, wired audio experience with a broad frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Their open-back design offers a natural, immersive sound, making them suitable for quiet environments where sound quality is paramount. The tangle-free cable ensures a hassle-free listening experience, making them a good choice for home use or stationary activities where portability is not a key concern.

Who is this NOT for?
active noise cancellation, as they lack this capability, making them less ideal for noisy environments or travel. The absence of a detachable cable and water resistance also means they may not be durable enough for rugged, on-the-go use. Additionally, the lack of in-line controls or a headset function makes them less suitable for multitaskers or those needing communication features during use.

Design:

Fit On-ear
has a detachable cable
water resistance None
is designed for kids
has a tangle free cable
travel bag is included
has an open-back design
has stereo speakers

The Grado SR80x headphones feature an on-ear fit and an open-back design that enhances the natural listening experience. They come with a tangle-free cable for convenience, though they do not include a detachable cable or a travel bag. These headphones are not designed for kids and do not offer water resistance. Additionally, they are equipped with stereo speakers for standard audio playback, but do not support features like ambient sound modes or in-ear detection.

Sound quality:

has active noise cancellation (ANC)
lowest frequency 20 Hz
highest frequency 20000 Hz
driver unit size 44 mm
impedance 38 Ohms
supports spatial audio
sound pressure level 98 dB/mW
has a neodymium magnet
has passive noise reduction

The Grado SR80x headphones offer a broad frequency range, from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, ensuring clear and full-range audio. They feature a 44 mm driver unit and a sound pressure level of 98 dB/mW, providing detailed sound output. However, these headphones do not include features like active noise cancellation, spatial audio support, or passive noise reduction, focusing instead on delivering a natural listening experience.

Power:

Has USB Type-C

The Grado SR80x headphones do not feature a USB Type-C port, focusing on a more traditional wired connection for power and usage. This means they do not support the modern USB Type-C charging or connectivity standard.

Connectivity:

connectivity Wired

The Grado SR80x headphones offer wired connectivity, providing a stable and direct audio connection without relying on wireless technology. This ensures a consistent, high-quality audio experience for users who prefer a wired setup.

Features:

release date December 2025
has ambient sound mode
has in/on-ear detection
number of microphones 0
control panel placed on a device
can be used as a headset
Has an in-line control panel

The Grado SR80x headphones do not feature several common conveniences, such as ambient sound mode, in/on-ear detection, or an in-line control panel. Additionally, they are not designed to be used as a headset, and there are no microphones included. The lack of these features means the headphones focus on delivering a straightforward audio experience without added interactive functionalities.

Final Verdict

The Grado SR80x headphones are a solid choice for audiophiles and casual listeners who value natural, open-back sound and a high-quality wired connection. With a broad frequency range and 44 mm driver units, they deliver clear, full-range audio for an immersive listening experience. However, the lack of features like active noise cancellation or a detachable cable limits their suitability for more dynamic or on-the-go use. Overall, the SR80x excels in sound quality for stationary listening but may not meet the needs of those seeking more versatility or portability.