Audio-Technica ATH-R50x vs Grado GS1000 Classic
Better figure, where one is clearly better
| Audio-TechnicaATH-R50x | GradoGS1000 Classic | |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Released | January 2025 | March 2026 |
| Sound | ||
| Type | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Noise cancelling | No | No |
| Driver size | 45 mm | 50 mm |
| Back | Open | Open |
| Impedance | 50 ohms | 38 ohms |
| Bluetooth codecs | None (wired) | None (wired) |
| Drivers | Dynamic, 45 mm; fully open-back with no added acoustic tuning; 5 – 40,000 Hz; 93.3 dB/mW; maximum input power 1,600 mW | 50 mm X2 dynamic, Mylar diaphragm, copper voice coil, rare earth magnet; open air; 8 Hz – 35 kHz (listed as "8-35"); 99.8 dB SPL at 1 mW; drivers matched to 0.05 dB |
| Battery | ||
| Listening time (maker's claim) | No battery (wired) | No battery (wired) |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 207 g | – |
| Headphone cable | Yes | Yes |
| Fit and ear tips | Circumaural, open-back; new headband design; replaceable ear pads and head pad | Over-ear, open-back; G cushions, the largest Grado makes; Signature Gold headband assembly with engraved aluminium alloy gimbals, stainless steel height rods, aluminium junction blocks, leather headstrap and adjustable steel spring band; mahogany housing; Grado publishes no weight |
| Works with | Two detachable cables, 3.0 m and 1.2 m, each with a 2.5 mm twist-lock connector at the left earcup and a gold-plated 3.5 mm plug; 6.3 mm adapter | Fixed Signature Silver cable; XLR termination optional at purchase |
| Colours | Black | – |
| In the box | ATH-R50x headphones, 3.0 m and 1.2 m cables, 6.3 mm adapter, pouch | – |
