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Products in this category are scored under Frontum Headphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
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Grado RS1i Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price:~£770Form factor:on-earConnectivity:wiredBattery life:N/A hoursActive noise cancellation (ANC):no

Grado RS1i Review: Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Grado RS1i
4.7/10

Overall score

Score
4.7/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 99% of models
Score components

80%

4.7

Technical score

20%

?

User score

â–¼Worse than 99% of headphones
5.2

Value for money

Value for money
5.2/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
Score components

70%

4.7

Overall score

30%

6.5

Price

â–¼Worse than 98%
4.7

Technical score

Technical score
4.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
Score components

52%

5.0

Sound

20%

4.0

Features

10%

6.1

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

3.8

Calls & Controls

â–¼Worse than 98%
?

User score

User score
8.0/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 58% of models
Score components

70%

?

User ratings

30%

?

Number of reviews

  • grado-rs1i
grado-rs1i
Where to buy
    N/A~ £770
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Grado RS1i

Technical score
Technical score
4.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
Score components:

52%

5.0

Sound

20%

4.0

Features

10%

6.1

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

3.8

Calls & Controls

4.7
User score
User score
8.0/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 58% of models
Score components

70%

?

User ratings

30%

?

Number of reviews

?
Popularity
Popularity
1.0/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 99% of models
Popularity:
Grado RS1i has a popularity score of 1 point, which is lower than that of 73.4% of products in this category.
1.0
Value for money
Value for money
5.2/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 98% of models
Score components:

70%

4.7

Overall score

30%

6.5

Price

5.2
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
no
This pair of headphones does not support active noise cancellation. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
dynamic
Driver size
40 mm
Market range: <10 mm – >50 mm
This pair of headphones uses a driver size of 40 mm, larger driver size than 28.6% of headphones and equal to 53.3% of headphones.
Number of drivers
1
Market range: <1 – >4
This pair of headphones uses 1 drivers, fewer drivers than 4% of headphones and equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
12 Hz
Market range: <5 Hz – >20 Hz
This pair of headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 12 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 64.9% of headphones and equal to 2.1% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
no
This pair of headphones is not headset-ready, while 15.1% is. 84.9% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
0
Market range: <0 – >4
This pair of headphones has 0 microphones, fewer microphones than 73.2% of headphones and equal to 26.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not include a boom microphone. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
N/A
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Connectivity
wired
This pair of headphones supports wired connectivity, less flexible connectivity than 49.2% of headphones and equal to 50.8% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
N/A
Audio latency
N/A
Multipoint support
no
This pair of headphones does not support multipoint. 30.6% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
no
This pair of headphones does not offer ambient sound mode. 24.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
no
This pair of headphones does not support EQ customization. 23.2% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
no
This pair of headphones does not work with a companion app. 21.6% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
N/A
Voice assistant support
no
This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
N/A
Battery life with ANC
N/A
Charging time
N/A
Quick charge
no
This pair of headphones does not support quick charging. 33.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
N/A
Show more
Brand name
Grado
Form factor
on-ear
Weight
255 g
Market range: <14 g – >340 g
This pair of headphones weighs 255 g, heavier than 64.2% of headphones and equal to 0.6% of headphones.
Acoustic design
open-back
Clamp force
?
Show more

Grado RS1i vs the average pair of headphones

246810TotalDesignSoundBatteryConnectivityCalls & ControlsFeatures
  • 10,000 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (30,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    30,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 6 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    12 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 0.8 m longer cable length
    This pair of headphones offers a more useful cable length than the average pair of headphones (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
    This pair of headphones uses an open-back design, while the average pair of headphones does not. 9.1% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 0.45 dB tighter channel balance
    This pair of headphones has a lower channel balance tolerance than the average pair of headphones (0.1 dB vs 0.5 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.5 dB.
    0.05 dB vs 0.5 dB
  • 0.8 m longer cable length
    This pair of headphones offers a more useful cable length than the average pair of headphones (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
    This pair of headphones uses an open-back design, while the average pair of headphones does not. 9.1% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 10,000 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (30,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    30,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 6 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (12 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    12 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 0.45 dB tighter channel balance
    This pair of headphones has a lower channel balance tolerance than the average pair of headphones (0.1 dB vs 0.5 dB). The average headphones have channel balance tolerance of 0.5 dB.
    0.05 dB vs 0.5 dB
  • No passive noise reduction
    This pair of headphones does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average pair of headphones does. 82.6% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • No voice assistant support
    This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • Not headset-ready
    This pair of headphones is not headset-ready, while the average pair of headphones is. 84.8% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a lower sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 17% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (255 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    255 g vs 218 g
  • 8.56x more expensive
    Grado RS1i is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£770 vs £90).
    £770 vs £90
  • 39.2% worse value for money
    Grado RS1i has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (5.22 vs 7.3).
    5.22 vs 7.27
  • 8.56x more expensive
    Grado RS1i is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£770 vs £90).
    £770 vs £90
  • 39.2% worse value for money
    Grado RS1i has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (5.22 vs 7.3).
    5.22 vs 7.27
  • 5.87x less popular
    Grado RS1i is less popular than the average pair of headphones (1 vs 5.9).
    1 vs 5.87
  • Fixed cable
    This pair of headphones has a fixed cable, while the average pair of headphones has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 17% higher weight
    This pair of headphones is heavier than the average pair of headphones (255 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    255 g vs 218 g
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • No travel bag
    This pair of headphones does not include a travel bag, the average pair of headphones does. 65.4% of headphones include a travel bag.
  • No passive noise reduction
    This pair of headphones does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average pair of headphones does. 82.6% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • 4 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a lower sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    98 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 5 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a lower sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    98 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • No battery indicator
    This pair of headphones does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
  • Not headset-ready
    This pair of headphones is not headset-ready, while the average pair of headphones is. 84.8% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    This pair of headphones has fewer microphones than the average pair of headphones (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
    0 vs 1
  • No voice assistant support
    This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 8 older release date
    This pair of headphones was released earlier than the average pair of headphones (2008 vs 2016). The average headphones were released in 2016.
    2008 vs 2016

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

7.0
Headphone PH
≈ estimated
14/07/2021
Hands-on review · sound comparisons with other headphones
Verdict
Grado RS1i offers decent, lively sound that suits collectors but won't appeal to most buyers.
9.0
Clint the Audio Guy
≈ estimated
09/06/2013
Pre-break-in review · sound, comfort and amp pairing
Verdict
Grado RS1i has fabulous open-back sound and great detail, best suited to quiet rooms rather than shared spaces.
Shop video
Not graded

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

tonepublications.com
01/01/2014
Full review · Warm midrange
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is a warm, rich headphone that is easy on the ears during long sessions, but its bass can go muddy when pushed loud.
soundbsessive.com
16/02/2015
Mini review · Rock-tuned headphone
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is an exciting, rhythmic headphone for rock and metal, but its small soundstage and midrange peak rule it out for classical.
headphone.ph
14/07/2021
Hands-on review · Build and comfort
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is light and vintage-looking, but its stiff cable and sponge-like pads make it uncomfortable after a couple of hours.
hifitest.de
26/01/2010
Listening test · Open-back headphones
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is a dynamic, direct headphone with a punchy attack and clean bass, suited to lively listening rather than soft, warm sound.
M
maplatine.com
01/05/2010
Summary of the review
Grado RS1i Headphones - Technical Review
(Translated)Show original
hifilivemagazine.com
31/12/2013
Listening review · Amplifier pairings
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is easy to drive from portable players and pairs best with a warm amplifier for lively, rock-friendly listening.
hifilivemagazine.com
31/12/2013
Build review · Cable and fit
Verdict
The Grado RS1i is light and easy to position, but its stiff cable and rough, warm earpads feel less refined than rival headphones.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Grado RS1i

  • Engaging 'front-row' sound signature with forward midrange and intimate vocals
  • Excellent for rock, jazz, and acoustic music due to natural instrumental timbres
  • Lightweight construction (approx. 260g) makes them easy to wear for extended periods
  • Highly efficient and easy to drive without requiring a powerful external amplifier
  • Beautiful vintage aesthetic featuring handcrafted mahogany earcups
  • Improved bass extension and tighter response compared to the original RS1 version

What customers don't like about Grado RS1i

  • On-ear (supra-aural) design and scratchy foam pads can cause discomfort or 'ear burn'
  • Thick, stiff, and non-detachable cable is often described as cumbersome or 'garden hose' like
  • Narrow soundstage compared to higher-end open-back competitors
  • Rolled-off sub-bass prevents a truly deep or impact-heavy low-end experience
  • Polarizing 'bright' or 'hot' treble can be fatiguing for sensitive listeners
  • Basic 'pizza box' packaging and plastic gimbals feel cheap for the premium price point

Verdict

The Grado RS1i is a premium open-back, supra-aural (on-ear) headphone featuring handcrafted mahogany wood enclosures and air chambers designed to eliminate resonance for a warm, natural tonal quality. Technically, it utilizes 40mm vented dynamic drivers precisely matched to within 0.05dB, an ultra-high purity long-crystal copper (UHPLC) voice coil, and a sturdy 8-conductor connecting cable to deliver a wide frequency response of 12Hz–30kHz with 32-ohm impedance and 98dB sensitivity. Its main characteristics include an expansive soundstage with detailed stereo imaging and a signature 'forward' midrange that excels in bringing vocals and acoustic instruments to life with rhythmic excitement. Key pros are its lightweight 9oz (255g) design, high efficiency making it extremely easy to drive without a dedicated amplifier, and a smooth, transparent high-end that provides great musical definition. Notable cons include subpar long-term comfort due to the scratchy texture of the stock L-cushion foam pads, a non-detachable and cumbersome cable, and an aggressive upper-midrange peak that can occasionally sound sibilant or 'shouty' on certain recordings.

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