Grado Classic SR325 Open-Back Headphones

The Grado Classic SR325 is an open-back over-ear headphone with a 44mm X2 driver in a precision-machined aluminum housing.

In the Classic series, it's the metal model – the point where the line starts to look grown-up. Important for context: the Classic SR325 without an "x" is its own model, not identical to the Prestige SR325x from the older x series.

Why the SR325?

Aluminum instead of plastic isn't a design argument here, it's an acoustic one: the solid housing damps resonances and keeps the sound clean and fast. Add to that the reworked 44mm X2 driver, the Signature Silver headband with engraved gimbals, and the matching, noticeably more flexible cable.

What you hear

Contour. The SR325 plays tighter in the bass, more present in the mids, and crisper in the treble than the smaller models in the series. Guitars have bite, drums have attack – this is the Grado people mean when they talk about the typical Grado directness.

Who is the SR325 for?

For listeners who want energy and pace and are after headphones for the desk or the hi-fi system. Honestly: it doesn't pull any punches – poorly produced recordings sound poor too. If you like it warmer and more forgiving, the Grado Hemp with its hemp-and-maple housing serves you better.

Our verdict

The SR325 has been the most honest recommendation in Grado's mid-range for years, and the Classic version only makes it better: same recipe, better cable, more comfortable headband. A headphone you never sell on.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Open-back over-ear headphones (open air, dynamic)
• Series: Grado Classic
• Driver: 44mm X2 with Mylar diaphragm, copper voice coil, and rare-earth magnet system
• Frequency response: 18 – 24,000 Hz
• Sensitivity (1 mW): 98 dB
• Nominal impedance: 38 ohms
• Driver matching: 0.05 dB
• Housing: Precision-machined aluminum
• Ear cushions: F-cushion
• Headband: Signature Silver, engraved gimbals and connectors of reinforced polymer, steel spring band, genuine leather headband
• Cable: Signature Silver, permanently attached

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the Classic SR325 and the Prestige SR325x?

They're two models from two lines. The SR325x belonged to the Prestige x series; the Classic SR325 arrived at the end of March 2026 with the Classic series: reworked X2 driver platform, new Signature Silver cable, and a new headband. The aluminum housing, 44mm driver, and F-cushions remain the shared core recipe.

What does the aluminum housing bring sonically?

It reduces the housing's own resonances. As a result, the bass sounds tighter and the treble cleaner than on the models with plastic housings, such as the SR60 and SR80. The difference isn't a marketing detail – it's clearly audible, especially with percussive music and densely arranged recordings.

Why buy the Grado Classic SR325 from HD Zürisee?

Because with us you get an honest assessment instead of a star rating. HD Zürisee in Wädenswil is an authorized Grado dealer; we'll tell you where the SR325 outperforms its neighbors – and where it doesn't. Questions welcome by phone, email, or WhatsApp.

Goes well with

A matching headphone amplifier, replacement cushions in our headphone accessories, and more headphones.