Thanks to Jaben for this Loaner

Jaben loaned me this Grado Signature HP100 SE so I could actually spend time with it and understand what it does before jumping to conclusions. If you’re curious about Grado’s new 52mm driver flagship and you want that classic Grado “fun, forward, punchy” sound, this is the exact unit I’m talking about in the video.

Pros

+Very open and wide presentation with a forward, exciting center image
+Fast, dynamic, punchy bass slam for an open-back
+No sibilance in my listening, even at higher volume
+4-pin XLR-style cup connection works with Audeze/ZMF-style cables

Cons

-Midrange can feel too forward and slightly hollow in lower mids depending on vocals
-Highs can sound a bit unnatural when mixes get busy
-Stock pad/cable choices can feel “Grado being Grado” for the price

Featured in this video

First Look 52 Grado HP100SE: Grado Upsized

1K views · 2025-03-14 17:56:52

Thanks to Jaben for this Loaner

Jaben Available on Jaben

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Highlights

+Very open and wide presentation with a forward, exciting center image
+Fast, dynamic, punchy bass slam for an open-back
+No sibilance in my listening, even at higher volume

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ZP Productions