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Grado RS2x Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£570
Avg. price in US: ~$550
Form factor: on-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Grado RS2x review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.1

Poor

3.3

Poor

7.2

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
1.2
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
4.9
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
2.5
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
4.9
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

Best prices in UK

£?

Best rankings

#762 in Best Wired Headphones

Verdict

The Grado RS2x is a high-end open-back, on-ear headphone featuring hand-built bi-wood housings that combine a maple exterior with a hemp core to deliver warm tonal characteristics and minimal transient distortion. Internally, it employs 4th-generation 44mm X Series dynamic drivers with a powerful magnetic circuit and reconfigured 'de-stressed' diaphragms, matched to within 0.05 dB for precise stereo imaging. Key technical specifications include a frequency response of 14 Hz – 28 kHz, a nominal impedance of 38 ohms, and a high sensitivity of 99.8 dB, making it easily driven by portable devices. Main pros include its lightweight 230g design, exceptionally clear midrange, and an immersive, wide soundstage with articulate high-frequency detail. However, notable cons include its bulky non-detachable cable, sparse included accessories, and potential on-ear comfort issues during long sessions due to the firm stock L-cushion foam pads.

Technical Specifications of Grado RS2x

Overall score

4.1

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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.

Sound

3.0

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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

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

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

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

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Calls & Controls

1.1

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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

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

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

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Connectivity

6.2

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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

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

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Features

2.7

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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

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

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Battery

1.0

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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

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Design

5.7

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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

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 RS2x vs the average headphone

Why is Grado RS2x better than the average headphone?

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4 mm larger driver size
Grado RS2x uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (44 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
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
Grado RS2x uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (44 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.44 mm vs 40 mm
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Grado RS2x includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Grado RS2x includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
Grado RS2x has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 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 RS2x has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.28000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
4 Hz lower bass extension
Grado RS2x 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 RS2x 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 RS2x 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 RS2x uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
0.5 m more useful cable length
Grado RS2x offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.7 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 RS2x offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.7 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.1.7 m vs 1.2 m
Open-back design
Grado RS2x uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
0.5 m more useful cable length
Grado RS2x offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.7 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
4 mm larger driver size
Grado RS2x uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (44 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
8,000 Hz higher treble extension
Grado RS2x has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (28,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
4 Hz lower bass extension
Grado RS2x has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (14 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
Direct 3.5 mm plug
Grado RS2x includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.

Why is Grado RS2x worse than the average headphone?

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Fixed cable
Grado RS2x has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
No travel bag
Grado RS2x does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
5.5% higher weight
Grado RS2x is heavier than the average headphone (230 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
No passive noise reduction
Grado RS2x does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
2.2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Grado RS2x has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99.8 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
12 dB lower max SPL
Grado RS2x has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (98 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
Not headset-ready
Grado RS2x is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
1 fewer microphones
Grado RS2x has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Grado RS2x does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
No passive noise reduction
Grado RS2x 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 RS2x does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
No voice assistant support
Grado RS2x 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 RS2x does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
Fixed cable
Grado RS2x 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 RS2x has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
Not headset-ready
Grado RS2x 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 RS2x is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
6.33x more expensive
Grado RS2x is more expensive than the average headphone (£570 vs £90).
Grado RS2x is more expensive than the average headphone (£570 vs £90).£570 vs £90
2.2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Grado RS2x has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99.8 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 RS2x has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (99.8 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.99.8 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
32.2% worse value for money
Grado RS2x has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.10 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 RS2x has worse value for money than the average headphone (5.10 vs 6.736).5.1 vs 6.74
1 fewer microphones
Grado RS2x has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 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
Grado RS2x has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Grado RS2x and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Grado RS2x?

Open and transparent soundstage with excellent clarity and detail
Detailed mids and articulate highs suited for genres like classical and acoustic
Extremely lightweight and non-fatiguing design for extended listening
Easy to drive even with low-powered portable devices like phones and laptops
Hand-built quality with a unique aesthetic featuring maple and hemp wood accents

What customers dislike about Grado RS2x?

Non-detachable cable that is noted for being overly thick, stiff, and prone to twisting
Open-back design naturally leaks significant audio and provides zero noise isolation
Lacks deep sub-bass impact compared to modern closed-back models
Stock foam earpads can feel rough or apply moderate pressure for some users
Minimal accessories included for its price point (no carrying case or pouch)

Expert reviews

soundstagesolo.com

20/02/2022

Grado RS2x Headphones Review

The Grado RS2x ($550) open-back, dynamic-driver headphones feature a striking "bi-wood" earcup design that blends maple wood on the exterior with hemp wood on the inside. Weighing only 230 grams, these handmade headphones are exceptionally lightweight but feature standard on-ear, scratchy foam pads that clamp tightly and may require bending the headband or buying larger third-party...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

15/08/2023

Grado RS2x Review

The PCMag UK review awards the Grado RS2x wired, open-back headphones a 4.0 "Excellent" rating for their top-tier audio quality, highlighting an exquisite soundstage and an exceptionally wide stereo image. Geared specifically toward audiophiles, these on-ear headphones feature eye-catching hemp and maple wood enclosures housing 44mm dynamic drivers that excel at delivering precise...Read more

head-fi.org

29/09/2023

Grado RS2x - Reviews - Head-Fi

The Grado RS2x headphones, praised on Head-Fi for exceptional technical performance and microdetail retrieval, feature a unique bi-wood design that offers a mid-centric, vibrant sound signature with superior instrument separation. Reviewers note that while the unit excels in capturing subtle vocal textures, the stock L-cushion pads are physically uncomfortable, and the thick,...Read more

superbestaudiofriends.org

15/01/2022

Grado RS2x Review and Measurements

The Super Best Audio Friends review of the Grado RS2xGo highlights a significant advancement in resolution, microdynamics, and a natural, organic timbre due to its maple and hemp construction. Pairing the lightweight, highly reactive headphones with flat F-cushion earpads improves the frequency response, reducing, but not eliminating, the aggressive treble peaks often found in...Read more

forbes.com

04/05/2023

Grado's RS2x Reference Headphones Are A Tour De Force In Audio Design

Mark Sparrow’s review for Forbes hails the Grado RS2x Reference Headphones as an acoustic masterpiece featuring 4th-generation 44mm X Drivers and a unique maple/hemp hybrid housing. These open-back, lightweight headphones deliver a detailed, transparent, and spacious soundstage with exceptionally smooth midranges, providing a highly comfortable experience for long listening...Read more

pcmag.com

15/08/2023

Grado RS2x Review

The PCMag review of the $550 Grado RS2x wired, open-back headphonesGo highlights their exceptional audio fidelity, driven by 4th-generation 44mm X Series drivers housed in a unique bi-wood design. Pros include rich bass, detailed mids, an immersive soundstage, and a lightweight, comfortable on-ear fit. Conversely, the open-back design causes significant sound leakage, and the...Read more

hifi-regler.de

No specific date

Grado RS-2x Reviews - hifi-regler

The Grado RS-2x open-back headphones deliver a highly differentiated and finely resolved midrange performance, making them an excellent match for acoustic and jazz tracks. During testing with Miles Davis’s "Flamenco Sketches," the review highlighted an exceptionally wide soundstage and uniquely authentic treble response, particularly noting how realistically cymbal hits were...Read more

lindwurm.wordpress.com

26/02/2025

Grado RS2x: The Sound of Brooklyn - The Lindworm", "Grado RS2x: The Sound of Brooklyn - The Dragon

The Grado RS2x headphones deliver a highly engaging, fast, and detailed sound profile with exceptional midrange clarity, making them outstanding for vocals, rock, metal, and movie dialogue. Positioned as the "sweet spot" of the Brooklyn-based company's lineup, this €650 ($550) retro-styled model features a unique mahogany-and-hemp ear cup construction and is relatively easy to drive...Read more

maplatine.com

Date non spécifiée

Grado RS2x Hi-Fi Headphones - maPlatine.com (Review and Listening)

The Grado RS2x is an open-back dynamic Hi-Fi headphone crafted by hand in Brooklyn, USA, representing the fourth generation of its specific lineage. Retailing at €649.00, this model features 44mm drivers housed in a unique hybrid wooden casing made of an maple outer sleeve and a hemp core. This combination uses maple for the primary tonal structure while hemp dampens the extreme...Read more

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