The Signature S550 is the most accessible model in Grado's Signature Line of open-back headphones, sitting below the Signature S750 and S950. It brings the values of the Signature range into a more streamlined and approachable form for listeners who value musical engagement as much as technical performance.
Driver and Tuning
At the heart of the Signature S550 is Grado's 50mm S2 dynamic driver, tuned specifically for the headphone's all-wood enclosure. Rather than chasing an entirely new architecture, Grado focused on the interaction between the driver and the acoustic properties of the housing, aiming to deliver clarity, balance, and energy while preserving the immediacy and openness that define the Grado sound. The result is a refined presentation that remains natural and fatigue-free over long listening sessions.
Construction
The S550 uses housings crafted entirely from Brazilian Walnut, continuing Grado's long-standing use of wood as an acoustic material, with each housing individually made. It is an open air design and is fitted as standard with Grado's B Cushion, remaining compatible with the wider Grado cushion range so listeners can tailor comfort and presentation.
Connection
The Signature S550 features a Signature Silver detachable cable terminated in a 4-pin Balanced Mini XLR at the headphone end. Source termination options include 3.5mm with a 6.3mm adapter, 4.4mm balanced, or a 4-pin balanced XLR with a 6.3mm adapter.