Grado RS2e Review | 93 Data compared

The ON-mag.fr review evaluates the Grado RS2e, an open-back, circum-aural Hi-Fi headphone handcrafted in Brooklyn, USA, that retails officially for 665 euros. Weighing a lightweight 250 grams, the device retains Grado’s iconic, nearly unchanged retro design, raising the question of whether its traditional build can compete with today's inventive audio market. Sonically, the reviewer awards the headset the "OnTopAudio Award," praising its highly energetic, lively, and dynamic sound signature that remains remarkably faithful to the original recording. The presentation features beautifully warm harmonic textures, rich full-bodied vocal clarity, excellent transient dynamics, and an ultra-smooth high-frequency extension that avoids harsh sibilance. However, the review highlights distinct physical and practical limitations inherent to the traditional Grado architecture. A primary drawback is its completely open-back configuration, meaning it lacks any active or passive noise cancellation, causing ambient sound to leak in and music to bleed out. Additionally, it relies strictly on a fixed, non-replaceable wired connection, which may compromise long-term durability if the thick audio lead suffers wear. While its featherweight chassis ensures it does not clamp tightly against the skull, the minimalist,...