The Grado SR325x sits at the top of the Prestige Series, the highest-performing open-back headphone in Grado’s entry-level range before stepping up to the Statement and Reference lines. It replaces the SR325e with revised driver architecture, upgraded cabling and updated comfort features, while retaining the aluminium alloy housings that distinguish it from the polymer-bodied models lower in the Prestige Series.
4th Generation Driver Design
The SR325x uses Grado’s 4th generation 44mm dynamic drivers, developed with a revised magnetic circuit, reduced voice coil mass and reconfigured diaphragm geometry. These changes improve efficiency and reduce distortion while preserving the harmonic integrity that defines the Grado sound. Driver matching is held to within 0.05 dB between left and right channels, ensuring precise stereo imaging across the frequency range.
Aluminium Alloy Housings
Where most Prestige Series models use polymer enclosures, the SR325x is built with machined aluminium alloy housings. The rigidity of the metal construction helps control resonance and standing waves within the ear cup, contributing to tighter bass definition and improved clarity through the midrange and treble. Grado describe the result as bringing “surgical precision” to the presentation, with better imaging of the space between instruments and a clearer overall soundstage.
Cable and Comfort
The SR325x is wired with a super annealed copper 8-conductor cable, doubling the conductor count of the 4-conductor cables used on lower Prestige models. The headband has been redesigned with a leather construction and distinctive white stitching, paired with flatter foam ear pads compared to the previous SR325e generation.
Heritage
Every SR325x is hand-built by Grado’s team in Brooklyn, New York, continuing a tradition of handcrafted audio equipment that began in 1953. The open-air operating principle is central to the Grado design philosophy, allowing air to move freely around the drivers for a natural, spacious presentation.
What the Press Says
- “These open-backed headphones remain the ones to beat at this level.” — What Hi-Fi? ★★★★★ (October 2022)
- What Hi-Fi? Awards 2025 winner
| Transducer Type | Dynamic |
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| Operating Principle | Open Air |
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| Driver Size | 44mm |
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| Frequency Response | 18 – 24,000 Hz |
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| SPL 1mW | 99.8 dB |
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| Nominal Impedance | 32 ohms |
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| Driver Matched dB | 0.05 dB |
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| Cable | Super annealed copper, 8-conductor |
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| Housing Material | Aluminium alloy |
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