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Grado PS500 Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£620
  • Avg. price in US: ~$600
  • Form factor: on-ear
  • Connectivity: wired
  • Battery life: N/A hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Grado PS500 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

3.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

2.9

Technical Score

20.0%

7.8

User score

Poor
2.9

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

2.9

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

4.8

Design

8.0%

2.9

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.1

Calls & Controls

Very poor
7.8

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

5.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(166)
amazon
5.0
(3)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(166)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Very good
  • 0.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    0.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    0.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    0.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

  • 0.9
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    3.2

    Weight

    16.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 0.2
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    0.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    14.0%

    0.0

    Companion app

  • 2.1
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    3.2

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

  • grado-ps500
grado-ps500

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Grado PS500 is an open-back, supra-aural headphone featuring 44mm dynamic drivers matched within 0.05dB, a frequency response of 14Hz – 29kHz, and a low 32-ohm impedance that makes it easily drivable by portable devices. Its core characteristic is a unique hybrid air chamber combining a mahogany inner core with powder-coated aluminum housing to minimize resonance, paired with an 8-conductor ultra-high purity copper cable. Main pros include its exceptional midrange clarity, balanced yet punchy bass response, and a spacious, highly detailed soundstage ideal for critical listening. However, notable cons include potential treble fatigue for sensitive listeners, a bulky non-detachable cable that limits portability, and an on-ear design that some users find uncomfortable for long sessions without third-party pad upgrades.

Technical Specifications of Grado PS500

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

2.9

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

4.8

Design

8.0%

2.9

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.1

Calls & Controls

2.9
Grado PS500 has a technical score of 2.88 points, which is lower than that of 99.9% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

5.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(166)
amazon
5.0
(3)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(166)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

7.8
Grado PS500 has a user score of 7.82 points, which is lower than that of 64.5% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
5.5
Grado PS500 has a popularity of 5.5 points, which is higher than 54.8% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

3.9

Overall score

40.0%

7.2

Price

4.9
Grado PS500 has a quality-to-price ratio of 4.9 points, which is lower than 95.7% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

no
Grado PS500 does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

40 mm
Grado PS500 uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.2% of headphones and equal to 53.6% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Grado PS500 uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

14 Hz
Grado PS500 reaches a lowest frequency of 14 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 64.3% of headphones and equal to 0.4% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Grado PS500 is not headset-ready, while 15.3% is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

0
Grado PS500 has 0 microphones, fewer microphones than 74.1% of headphones and equal to 25.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A
Show more
Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wired
Grado PS500 supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Show more
Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Grado PS500 does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

no
Grado PS500 does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A
Show more
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Grado
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

on-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

300 g
Grado PS500 weighs 300 g, heavier than 80.9% of headphones and equal to 1.3% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
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Grado PS500 vs the average headphone

  • 9,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Grado PS500 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=24000 Hz

    Grado PS500 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.29000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    Grado PS500 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
    When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <=1%

    Grado PS500 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.0.1 % vs 0.3 %
  • 4 Hz lower bass extension
    Grado PS500 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (14 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Grado PS500 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (14 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.14 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • Open-back design
    Grado PS500 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones use an open-back housing that lets air and sound pass through more freely than a closed design.
    When it matters: When you listen in quiet places and care more about spacious sound than blocking outside noise or preventing sound leakage.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Grado PS500 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 0.8 m more useful cable length
    Grado PS500 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
    What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
    When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.

    Importance: LOW

    Grado PS500 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.2 m vs 1.2 m
  • Open-back design
    Grado PS500 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 0.8 m more useful cable length
    Grado PS500 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (2 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
  • 9,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Grado PS500 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (29,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • 0.2 % lower distortion
    Grado PS500 has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
  • 4 Hz lower bass extension
    Grado PS500 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (14 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.

Total
Design
Sound
  • 37.6% higher weight
    Grado PS500 is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • Fixed cable
    Grado PS500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Grado PS500 uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • No travel bag
    Grado PS500 does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Grado PS500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • 4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Grado PS500 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 12 dB lower max SPL
    Grado PS500 has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (98 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
  • 5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
    Grado PS500 has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • Not headset-ready
    Grado PS500 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Grado PS500 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • No voice assistant support
    Grado PS500 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 6 years older release date
    Grado PS500 was released earlier than the average headphone (2,011 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
    September 2011
  • No passive noise reduction
    Grado PS500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
    When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Grado PS500 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • No voice assistant support
    Grado PS500 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
    What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
    When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

    Importance: LOW

    Grado PS500 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 37.6% higher weight
    Grado PS500 is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Grado PS500 is heavier than the average headphone (300 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.300 g vs 218 g
  • Fixed cable
    Grado PS500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
    What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
    When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Grado PS500 has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • Not headset-ready
    Grado PS500 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
    When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Grado PS500 is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Grado PS500 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    Grado PS500 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 6.89x more expensive
    Grado PS500 is more expensive than the average headphone (£620 vs £90).
    Grado PS500 is more expensive than the average headphone (£620 vs £90).£620 vs £90
  • 37.9% worse value for money
    Grado PS500 has worse value for money than the average headphone (4.88 vs 6.736).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
    When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
    Grado PS500 has worse value for money than the average headphone (4.88 vs 6.736).4.88 vs 6.74
Total
Overall
Design
Sound
Calls & Controls
Features

Graphic comparison of Grado PS500 and

Attribute category
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
166 Reviews
amazon
5.0
3 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
166 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
3 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Grado PS500?

  • Exceptional clarity, detail, and transparency
  • Punchy and well-controlled bass, often considered more balanced than other Grado models
  • Wide, immersive soundstage with precise instrument separation
  • Highly efficient and easy to drive, though they benefit significantly from a high-quality DAC
  • Lightweight design with a distinctive retro metal-and-wood hybrid aesthetic
  • Engaging, 'live' musical presentation that works well across diverse genres

What customers dislike about Grado PS500?

  • Treble can be sharp or sibilant, potentially leading to listening fatigue
  • Stock L-Cush earpads are often reported as uncomfortable for long sessions
  • Attached cable is widely criticized for being too thick, heavy, and cumbersome
  • Minimal noise isolation and significant sound leakage due to the open-back design
  • Simple headband lacks adequate padding for some users
  • Questionable build quality for the price point, with some users noting a 'DIY' feel

Expert reviews

W
whathifi.com
06/06/2012
Grado PS500 review | What Hi-Fi?

The Grado PS500 is an open-backed, on-ear headphone designed primarily for home use due to its thick cable, 6.3mm jack, and propensity to leak a substantial amount of sound. It features a stripped-back, no-nonsense aesthetic with an adjustable headband and swivel foam-padded earcups that fit snugly without feeling overly tight. In terms of performance, the headphones deliver an...Read more

H
head-fi.org
17/01/2012
Exploring the PS500 (brief comparisons to other top Grados)

In the Head-Fi review, the Grado PS500 is praised as a versatile, high-value, all-rounder featuring balanced tonality, impressive sonic detail, and superior instrument separation. It is noted for its ability to deliver an engaging, neutral sound profile that rivals more expensive, higher-end headphones, boasting a wider soundstage than the RS1i. Conversely, the review identifies...Read more

H
headfonia.com
11/11/2011
The New Grado Sound: Grado PS500

The Headfonia review notes the Grado PS500 offers a significant departure from traditional, treble-heavy Grado models by providing improved, articulated bass and a versatile, textured sound profile suitable for various genres. Pros include this enhanced sonic balance and ease of driving directly from portable sources. Conversely, the review highlights drawbacks, including a very...Read more

H
hifichoice.com
13/03/2012
Grado PS500 review | Hi-Fi Choice

The Hi-Fi Choice review of the Grado PS500 (£700) highlights a magnificent, detailed audio performance with a sweet treble and a generous bass that rivals higher-end models, utilizing premium components like rare-earth magnets and specialized cables to minimize noise. These low-impedance, versatile headphones excel at revealing hidden musical details and are easy to drive,...Read more

S
sonicscoop.com
14/11/2011
Grado Labs PS 500 Headphones by George Walker Petit | SonicScoop

In his review, George Walker Petit praises the Grado Labs PS500 open-back headphones as an exceptional offering within the company's "Professional Series". Priced at a retail MSRP of $600, Petit notes that these American-made headphones deliver performance that easily rivals competitor models costing up to $1,200. Designed with a vented diaphragm, a hybrid air chamber, and a...Read more

H
headfonics.com
25/10/2011
Grado PS-500 – The PS series gets affordable, but is it any good? | Headfonics

The Headfonics review highlights the Grado PS500 as an accessible, high-performance entry into the Professional Series, offering a detailed, rich, and balanced sound with smooth treble, deep bass, and 32-ohm efficiency that drives well from portable players. Pros include superior sound quality and comfort over traditional, bright Grado designs. Conversely, cons focus on the...Read more

H
headfonia.com
11/11/2011
The New Grado Sound: Grado PS500 | Headfonia

The Headfonia review characterizes the Grado PS500 as a departure from the brand's aggressive sound, offering a smoother, full-bodied, and mature audio profile with an organic midrange and impactful bass. Utilizing a hybrid mahogany wood and aluminum design, the 32-Ohm headphones are versatile and easy to drive, delivering a balanced sound without the fatiguing treble often...Read more

H
head-fi.org
12/12/2011
Grado Professional Series PS500 Review | Head-Fi

The Grado Professional Series PS500 headphones are recognized for offering a balanced, energetic sound with fast, forward treble and intimate mids, driven by a 32-ohm impedance that makes them easy to use with portable devices. Key strengths include high-fidelity performance, detailed sound reproduction, and a satisfying physical impact on drums and vocals. However, the PS500 faces...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
17/01/2012
Grado PS500 review | Expert Reviews

The Grado PS500 on-ear headphones deliver exceptional, highly detailed sound across all musical genres, mimicking the performance of the brand's top-tier £1,700 models at a third of the cost. Built with a handcrafted mahogany inner sleeve and an aluminum outer housing to eliminate distortion, these 32-Ohm headphones are easily powered by portable media players. Pros include an...Read more

O
open-end-music.com
26/02/2015
Grado Headphones Review: The Third Generation

Based on the forum review and user discussions, Grado’s third-generation "e-series" headphones deliver exceptional musicality, extreme precision, and a highly coherent sound signature across various musical genres. The flagship PS1000e model stands out as a true heavyweight, offering unparalleled accuracy, an expansive soundstage, and a lifelike energy that renders acoustic...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
connect.de
21/07/2014
Grado PS500 Review - On-Ear Headphones

Grado PS 500 is a premium, open-back on-ear headphone priced at 630 Euro, manufactured in the USA, and positioned as the second-largest model in the brand's family below the PS 1000. Structurally, it features a distinct, rustic headband height adjustment and an intricate driver setup encased in a hidden mahogany wood housing beneath an outer steel jacket to damp unwanted resonances....Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hifitest.de
29/08/2014
Grado Labs PS500 review: Excellent Hi-Fi headphones

The Grado Labs PS500 is an open-back headphone designed primarily for stationary studio and home HiFi use, carrying a price tag of around €630. In terms of advantages, the reviewer highly praises its exceptional sound quality, which earns a perfect 5-star rating. The headphones deliver a deeply extended, precise, and well-contoured bass without creating unpleasant ear pressure,...Read more

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M
misauriculares.com
21/04/2020
Grado PS500 Review", "Grado PS500 Headphone Review

The Grado PS500 is an open-back, dynamic on-ear headphone that features a retro aesthetic, a lightweight 215-gram body, and a fixed 1.83-meter cable with a 6.35 mm jack. In terms of performance, the reviewer highlights a highly exciting, dynamic, and entertaining sound signature characterized by prominent bass, decent detail retrieval, and very good horizontal sound placement....Read more

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O
on-mag.fr
02/03/2020
Grado PS500e Review: A truly legitimate old-school pro headphone with completely modern sound finesse

The Grado PS500e is an $850 open-back, handcrafted headphone from the Brooklyn-based Professional Series that blends classic aesthetic design with modern audio precision. Featuring a hybrid acoustic chamber constructed from an outer aluminum shell and a numbered mahogany inner core, it uses matched 44mm transducers and an 8-conductor cable to optimize performance. The sonic...Read more

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misauriculares.com
21/04/2020
Review: Grado PS500 - misauriculares.com

Grado PS500 This review evaluates the Grado PS500 open-back, dynamic headphones, noting a massive disparity between their cheap build quality and their premium original price tag of €550 to €600. The reviewer heavily criticises the deficiente cardboard packaging, the unstable metal-and-plastic height adjustment, and a design flaw where the cups rotate endlessly, causing the thick...Read more

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moremusic.nl
Undated
Aurender FLOW review (Tested with Grado PS500) Are you looking for more details on the specific sound differences between the original PS500 and the n...

The Aurender FLOW ($1,295) is a unique, "transportable" DAC and headphone amplifier featuring a machined aluminum enclosure, an integrated 4,450mAh battery, and a built-in mSATA solid-state drive slot capable of expanding storage up to 1TB. Key pros highlighted in the review include its exceptional build quality, precise velocity-sensitive volume wheel, and broad compatibility with...Read more

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fwdmagazine.be
22/06/2012
Grado PS-500 Review", "Review: Grado PS-500

from FWD Magazine: The Grado PS-500 review highlights a high-end headphone that captures much of the sonic magic of Grado's flagship PS1000 model but at a much more affordable price, making it an excellent deal. Structurally, it features a unique hybrid "sandwich" design with an inner mahogany wood cup enclosed by a coated aluminum exterior. Sound-wise, its major pros include an...Read more

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