Grado Signature S550 Open-Back Headphones

The Grado Signature S550 is an open-back over-ear headphone with a 50 mm S2 driver in a housing made of solid Brazilian walnut.

It's the fourth and most affordable model in the Signature line – and proof that Grado doesn't reserve its new driver for the top of the range.

Why the S550?

Grado didn't develop a new driver for this one – instead, the S2 was specifically tuned to the solid-wood housing. That's the more honest approach: wood sounds different from aluminium, so it needs to be voiced differently too. Add to that the new B cushions, a detachable Signature Silver cable and 4-pin mini-XLR connectors on both earcups – features that were reserved for the flagship models not long ago.

What you hear

Warmth, without losing pace. The S550 is the most relaxed take on the Grado sound: rounded treble, full mids, a wide stage – and still that typical directness. Driver matching of 0.05 dB keeps that stage standing clean. Every housing is made individually, so no two grain patterns are ever quite the same.

Who is the S550 for?

For long evenings with music rather than short analytical sessions – and for anyone who finds 460 grams on their head too much. Honestly: if you're after headphones for commuting, the office, or a home office you share with others, look elsewhere – the open design doesn't seal in anything. And if you want maximum precision, the S750 or the HP100 SE are the better call.

Our verdict

The S550 is the friendliest way into Grado's Signature line: the same S2 driver as the S750, noticeably lighter, tuned warmer – and at 335 grams, one of the most comfortable Grados around.

Technical specs

• Type: Open-back over-ear headphones (open air, dynamic)
• Series: Grado Signature
• Driver: 50 mm S2, tuned to the solid-wood housing
• Frequency response: 6 Hz – 44 kHz
• Total harmonic distortion: < 0.2% at 100 dB
• Sensitivity: 112 dB (1 mW)
• Impedance: 38 ohms
• Driver matching: 0.05 dB
• Housing: Solid Brazilian walnut, handmade in Brooklyn
• Ear cushions: B cushions (fitted), compatible with S, F, L and G cushions
• Cable: Signature Silver, detachable, 1.8 m (6 ft)
• Earcup connector: 4-pin mini-XLR (balanced)
• Source connector: 3.5 mm jack with 6.3 mm adapter
• Weight: 335 g (without cable)
• What's in the box: headphones with B cushions, detachable Signature Silver cable, 6.3 mm adapter

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the S550 and the S750?

Both use the 50 mm S2 driver. The S550 sits in Brazilian walnut and sounds warmer, rounder and more relaxed; the S750 in its aluminium housing plays tighter and more direct. At 335 g, the S550 is noticeably lighter and connects via a 3.5 mm jack, while the S750 uses 6.3 mm.

Can I use other Grado cushions with the S550?

Yes. It ships with the new B cushions as standard, but S, F, L and G cushions are also compatible. Each variant noticeably changes fit and sound: smaller cushions sit closer to the ear and sound more direct, larger ones open up the soundstage. An affordable way to tune the headphones to your own taste.

Why buy the Grado Signature S550 from HD Zürisee?

Because with a wood headphone, good advice counts for more than comparing spec sheets. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil is an authorised Grado dealer; we'll tell you honestly whether the S550 or a model from the Classic series suits your system better. Get in touch by phone, email or WhatsApp.

Goes well with

The right headphone amplifier, more cushions in our headphone accessories, and more headphones.