Headphones
Grado SR60X
Best For
- Budget-conscious audiophiles
- Ethical consumers
- Comfort seekers
Consider Carefully
- Bass-heavy music lovers
- Public transport commuters
Jump to Section
The Bottom Line
The Grado SR60X headphones, a member of the Prestige Series, deliver an appealing balance of sound quality and comfort for their price range. What we found particularly striking is the detailed midrange sound these headphones offer, as noted by one-third of our expert sources. This is complemented by their lightweight and comfortable fit, making them a pleasant choice for extended listening sessions. Moreover, their vegan-friendly synthetic materials are a thoughtful addition for those who prioritize ethical consumerism. Despite these strengths, the SR60X has its drawbacks, with the lack of substantial bass and poor noise isolation being the most frequently mentioned weaknesses. The open-back design, while offering a natural soundstage, also allows others to hear your music, which might be a deal-breaker for some.
Performance Breakdown
In-Depth Analysis
Build Quality 91
Six sources, no meaningful dissent. The SR60X is built to last, and users report owning the same pair for years.
Key Takeaway
→Buy these expecting to own them for a decade. The build holds up, and Grado's customer service backs it.
Value For Money 89
Six sources, unanimous: the SR60X is the go-to recommendation for first-time open-back buyers on a budget.
Key Takeaway
→If you want to try open-back audio without a big financial commitment, this is the standard recommendation for a reason.
Comfort & Fit 79
Four sources call it comfortable for long sessions, but at least one reviewer on r/HeadphoneAdvice disagrees directly. The headband is the variable.
Key Takeaway
→Expect to spend five minutes adjusting the headband out of the box. If you're willing to do that, most users land in a comfortable place for long sessions.
Soundstage & Detail 78
Only two sources weigh in, but both agree: wide soundstage and strong imaging for the price.
Key Takeaway
→If soundstage and imaging matter to your listening, the open-back design delivers. Just know the evidence base here is only two sources.
Sound Signature 75
The SR60X has a bright, midrange-forward sound that audiophiles love and bass-heads will hate. This is not a neutral headphone, and reviewers across 14 sources are clear about that.
Key Takeaway
→If your library skews toward vocals, acoustic, or classic rock, the SR60X delivers. If you need bass weight or a flat reference sound, look elsewhere.
Open-Back Design 45
A 45/100 score tells the story: the open-back design is a hard constraint, not a minor caveat. Three sources agree it fails in any environment with noise or other people nearby.
Key Takeaway
→If you listen at a desk in a quiet space, the open-back design works in your favor. Anywhere else, it's a problem.
Specifications & Verdict
Ergonomics
- Adjustable Headband
- Yes
- Comfort
- Soft Sheepskin Ear Pads
Features
- Detachable Cable
- Yes
- Impedance
- 32 ohms
Performance
- Driver Type
- Dynamic
- Frequency Response
- 10Hz-35,000Hz
- Sensitivity
- 99.8dB/mW
Physical
- Cable Length
- 4.9 feet
- Weight
- 7.8 ounces
Our Verdict
For those willing to trade off some bass and noise isolation for detailed midrange sound and comfort, the Grado SR60X is a solid choice. It's best suited for users who value sound quality and comfort over heavy bass and privacy in their listening environment. However, if you prioritize bass response or need isolation in noisy environments, it might be worth looking elsewhere.
Customer Reviews Amazon
576 reviews
Great product!
Inexpensive Comfort Upgrade
SImple but nice idea
Perfect headphones crown cover, wider compatibility than listed
Show all 5 reviews
Simple upgrade that adds comfort and protects the headband
Reviews shown are from Amazon customers and do not reflect our editorial assessment.
Pricing & Availability
Updated Feb 24, 2026Grado SR60X
Sources & Methodology
Every score is built on evidence. This review synthesizes 29 independent sources — expert publications, video reviews, and community discussions — weighted by credibility, depth, and relevance.
Show detailed source analysis ↓ Hide source analysis ↑
Expert Reviews
addictedtoaudio.com.au
The Grado SR60x headphones, part of the Prestige Series, are hand built in Brooklyn, New York, featuring 44mm dynamic drivers and a nominal impedance of 32 ohms. They provide detailed midrange sound at an affordable price, but lack substantial bass. The headphones are lightweight and comfortable, with vegan-friendly synthetic materials for the headband and earcups.
Strengths
- +Detailed midrange sound for the price
- +Lightweight and comfortable fit
- +Vegan-friendly synthetic materials
Weaknesses
- −Lacks substantial bass
soundguys.com
The Grado SR60X is a solid choice for those looking to upgrade from mass-market headphones with its open-back design and comfortable on-ear fit. It offers good value for money and high sensitivity, making it compatible with most devices without the need for an external amplifier. However, its open-back design means it doesn't isolate from the environment, making it unsuitable for use in noisy settings or where privacy is desired.
Strengths
- +Offers a step up in audio quality over consumer headphones
- +Reasonable price relative to other open-back headphones
- +Comfortable design with thick, light foam
- +High sensitivity and low impedance, no need for external amplifier
Weaknesses
- −Lack of noise isolation; not suitable for noisy environments
- −Open-back design allows others to hear your music
- −Requires a 3.5mm jack or dongle for modern smartphones
Video Reviews
SoundProof Brothers
The Grado SR60X, part of the Prestige X Series, is known for its …
The Grado SR60X, part of the Prestige X Series, is known for its open-back design that delivers expansive soundstage. Handmade in Brooklyn, New York, it features a dynamic driver capable of handling frequencies from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz with an impedance of 38 ohms. The SR60X emphasizes clear mids and bright, forward sound projection, offering a comfortable listening experience without clamping discomfort over extended periods. Its price point of 3,490 baht makes it an accessible option for enthusiasts seeking quality sound with an emphasis on mids and clarity.
- →Ideal for music enthusiasts prioritizing mid and clear sound.
- →Suitable for long listening sessions due to comfort.
- →Handcrafted quality at an accessible price point.
Community Discussions via Reddit
Full Review
r/HeadphoneAdvice
u/historymysterygift
The Grado SR60X is a headphone model appreciated for its good audio quality, especially for jazz, rock, and metal genres. The reviewer, who is new to the audiophile territory, has opted for the Grado SR60X due to its reputation and is curious to experience its performance. The community comments suggest that it might be a good fit for the reviewer's preference for bright/neutral sound and its compatibility with various music genres.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X is suitable for those who prefer a bright/neutral tonal balance.
- →The Grado SR60X is compatible with a variety of music genres, making it a versatile option.
Top Comments
Even for prog metal, but especially for jazz I strongly suggest the AKG k702. It is fantastic, open, wide, detailed. It is very power hungry tho, but the Macbook will be able to drive it. For the PC, …
Would recommend the HD560S because besides their neutral signature (which isn't the same as analytical) they also take EQ extremely well. They're comfy and enjoyable on their own, but also a great …
Wired headphones typically don't have any on-board gadgets. The community standard for PEQ is Equaliser APO with the PEACE overlay plugin, and r/oratory1990 got a great sheet to get started with if …
Setup Showcase
r/headphones
u/Less_Treat_9981
The Grado SR60X is a unique pair of headphones that has garnered a mixed response from the r/headphones community. They are praised for their fun and unique sound signature, with a boost at 2kHz, and their ability to reveal details that other headphones may not. However, they have been criticized for their peaky treble and lack of bass. Users also note that they are open-back headphones, which means privacy is not their strong suit, and they may not be comfortable for extended periods.
Key Insights
- →Best for those who appreciate a unique sound signature and are not concerned about privacy
- →Not ideal for use in public settings due to open-back design
- →May require adjustments for comfort, such as bending the steel headband
Top Comments
For a start? Sure! They’re not neutral, pretty hefty boost at 2khz, but they’re fun and unique. I had some old SR80 early on in my journey and still have some in the collection somewhere.
If someone says they want to buy grado's as their first headphone I immediately assume it's because of that funny aussie man. He does great content, especially on garbage time
Awesome I’ve been watching dank pods and learning a lot more stuff and it’s been really interesting so I started learning more about it
Setup Showcase
r/BudgetAudiophile
u/altrightobserver
The Grado SR60X headphones are a popular choice among budget audiophiles, especially for those looking for an entry point into open-back headphones. Users appreciate the look and the sound quality, with one commentator mentioning that they 'love the look' and consider it their 'entry point' into open-back headphones. Another long-term user praises the durability and customer service of Grado, stating that their 30+ year old SR100s still sound fantastic and that the company provided a free replacement when needed.
Key Insights
- →Grado SR60X is a good entry-level open-back headphone option for those new to the audiophiles' world.
- →The brand is known for its durability and excellent customer service.
- →Grado headphones are appreciated for their sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
Top Comments
Love Grado. I have a set of 30+ year old SR100s that still sound fantastic. My (now 28 year old) daughter broke one of the earpiece mounts when she was a baby, and the company sent me a replacement …
some audiophiles fail to consider young people might be happy and content with something that is simply an upgrade to their setup before and also don’t have £1000 lying around to invest in equipment
Most of my listening will be done through headphones cuz shared space and all
Setup Showcase
r/headphones
u/Kismayaz
The Grado SR60X headphones have been well-received by users, particularly for their improved build quality and comfort. Users have noted the pleasant unboxing experience, the sturdy yet flexible cord, and the thicker, softer ear pads. Long-term durability is also praised, with some users reporting their older Grado models still functioning well after many years.
Key Insights
- →Grado SR60X is praised for its improved build quality and comfort.
- →Durability is a strong point, with users reporting long-term satisfaction.
- →The headphones are considered a premium item with their updated design.
Top Comments
I posted this over on the Head-Fi "Grado Fan Club" thread. I figured it would also fit in well here. I got my 60x pair in the mail this afternoon. I’ve been excitedly awaiting them as my first ever …
As plasticky as these seem they last forever. I have a pair of sr60 (no letter afterwards) which at the latest we’re made in 2009. These still look and function as good as new.
Nice. It seems like the improvements they made to the build quality were what has been needed for years, IMO. The cord looks like it will prevent the twisting that always happens to the cables …
Comparison
r/headphones
u/TrekkieT
TrekkieT, a happy noob in the headphone hobby, has been using the Grado SR60X for a few months and is impressed with the difference in sound compared to their previous Bose QC35ii. They appreciate the bright sound signature and the open-back experience, which allows them to notice details in their music they never heard before. The SR60X has become their go-to for a 'bright' mood.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X is appreciated for its bright sound signature and open-back experience.
- →The SR60X is a good choice for those looking to try out the open-back headphone experience at a relatively low cost.
- →The SR60X has helped the user appreciate the difference in sound quality between different headphones.
Top Comments
Do try EQ. You can and I'd say should start with measured presets like Oratory1990's. It just improves the sound so much.
That’s quite a good collection. Grado for Grado stuff, HD6xx for Vocal stuff, K702 for immersive stuff, 99 Classics for fun stuff and the LCD-X as a great Allrounder. Hope your wallet recovers soon …
Will definitely try some EQ! Any iOS EQ software recommendations? I mainly use my iPad for listening.
Full Review
r/HeadphoneAdvice
u/SavageSam1234
The Grado SR60X is a treble-forward pick under $100, favored for its bright sound signature. It is recognized for its ability to deliver clear and detailed audio within its price range. The SR60X stands out for those seeking a more analytical listening experience, but may not be ideal for those who prefer a more balanced sound profile.
Key Insights
- →Best for those who prefer a treble-forward sound signature.
- →Not ideal for listeners seeking a more balanced sound profile.
Top Comments
Great list! Some suggestions: \- Could mention the HD6XX drops into the $200 range every so often \- The DT 7-- line is worth adding for budget closed-backs \- The CCA CRA absolutely belongs in …
I think it is a good list but I would make a few adjustments. I have a question. Why is the Drop JVC HA-FDX1 in the treble forward pick? It has less treble than the Blessings 2, Blessings 2 Dusk and …
Thanks for all your suggestions, all great ones! I added them all accordingly!
Setup Showcase
r/headphones
u/throwaway1842955
The Grado SR60X headphones are highly regarded by their owner for their sound quality. The user found them to be 'terrifyingly good' without EQ, and with EQ, they were on par with their he400se, indicating a high level of satisfaction. The soundstage was also praised as being 'stupidly wide', which was a significant positive for the user.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X is praised for its sound quality and wide soundstage.
- →EQ can significantly enhance the listening experience of the Grado SR60X.
- →The bass and mids may require adjustment for some users.
Top Comments
I'm not sure I am allowed to accept your anecdotal claim of "terrifyingly good" sound without one of those squiggly line graphs. I think you can draw one pretty easily in Paint and that should cover …
Ah yes, my goodman. It appears as though you have produced quite an attractive squiggly line. Well done, sir. Well done.
https://preview.redd.it/nbs5cooup9de1.jpeg?width=1022&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9f2d0996b00aafdcf82b3b97d138d262cea6f91e Here’s my very bad attempt vs the XS. This is before EQ. I have …
Comparison
r/headphones
u/nickeltingupta
The Grado SR60X headphones are praised for their comfort and sound quality, particularly in the vocals and upper range. Users appreciate the non-piercing sound and the enjoyable bass, which, while not overwhelming, is satisfying. The imaging and sound separation are noted as superior to other models, and the detail and clarity are impressive. However, concerns are raised about the build quality and potential sound leakage.
Key Insights
- →Grado SR60X excels in comfort and sound quality, making them a good choice for extended listening sessions.
- →The headphones' open-back design may not be suitable for all environments due to sound leakage.
- →Despite the build quality concerns, the SR60X offers a unique listening experience with its open-back design.
Full Review
r/headphones
u/kaysn
The Grado SR60X has been praised for its lively sound signature, making it an enjoyable choice for those who appreciate a bright and energetic listening experience. The reviewer particularly enjoys the headphones for their ability to highlight strings, percussion, and the surprise zing of cymbals and trumpets. The SR60X fits comfortably and is not painful or uncomfortable, even after some adjustment to reduce clamping force.
Key Insights
- →Best for those who enjoy a bright and lively sound signature.
- →Not ideal for those seeking a neutral sound profile.
- →Community consensus is that Grado headphones are fun and lively, with the SR60X being no exception.
Top Comments
I’ve used SR80e, SR125x, and Hemp. Grados are super fun and you shouldn’t be afraid of enjoying em. They’re lively and exciting!
I have the 80x and they're my metal cans, no headphones play crash cymbals and distorted guitars better than Grado.
Thanks for the heads up. I didn't know the Yaxi pads for Porta Pro would fit the Grado.
Setup Showcase
r/headphones
u/ezyres
The Grado SR60X headphones are praised by users for their sound performance and comfort. Users have noted that the sound can be customized by swapping pads, which is a popular modification among Grado owners. The open-back design allows for some external noise to be heard, which is a common characteristic of this type of headphone. The SR60X has received positive feedback for its changes in headband, cable, and packaging.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X is suitable for users who appreciate customizable sound and an open-back design.
- →Pad options can significantly change the sound profile, allowing for personalization.
- →Comfort can be improved with aftermarket pads or headbands.
Top Comments
Enjoy! I really recommend trying some of the other pad options. Pad swapping really does change the sound with Grados, so it could potentially add some variety to the sound. The official ones are …
look on Grado's website for accessories. G-pads are gigantic (check my posts on headphones, they look ridiculous), comfortable, but cost you tons of bass. I'm not too happy with them. the F pads …
I like to see they changed some things (head band, cable, packaging). I really have a soft spot for Grado, love their sound!
Comparison
r/headphones
u/figuz326
The Grado SR60X headphones have been praised by their owner for their sound quality, with the user stating they cannot imagine headphones sounding any better after using them for a few months. Community comments highlight the SR60X's high open-back performance for the price and crisp highs, which give an illusion of greater detail. However, some users find the sound signature polarizing due to the exaggerated treble.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X offers excellent value in the open-back headphone category
- →Their sound signature may not align with the industry-standard Harman curve, leading to a polarizing user experience
- →Long-term durability is implied by users still owning and using the same pair of Grados
Top Comments
Many people hate Grado because they don't comply with the industry-standard Harman curve. However, there are two specific attributes of the SR60x that make them really appealing as a "first …
About 3 months ago I took a Saturday to go downtown to a high end shop to upgrade from my Hifiman 400i. I just got a raise, so I gave myself a luxurious 1200 to spend. I sat down at their headphone …
I can't tell if this is bait. Grados in general are an acquired taste and very polarising. They typically have exaggerated treble that can give the illusion of clarity etc. Without knowing what …
Comparison
r/HeadphoneAdvice
u/Hunter002_
The Grado SR60X is a popular choice among those looking to upgrade from basic headphones like AirPods Pro, offering a significant improvement in audio quality. Users appreciate the value for money, with the headphones being praised for their sound quality relative to their price point. However, comfort during long listening sessions is a concern, with some users experiencing ear pain. The headphones are also known for their open-back design, which may not be suitable for all environments.
Key Insights
- →Best for those seeking an upgrade in sound quality without a high budget.
- →Not ideal for long listening sessions due to comfort concerns.
- →Open-back design may not be suitable for all environments.
Top Comments
I completely agree on the Ifi Zen DAC V2. I have used the first one, and have heard good things about the V2. I have never tried the Grado sr60x, but read good things about them. About the only …
Thanks yeah the YouTuber I mentioned absolutely raves about the dac. I’ve also read great things about those headphones and they’re insanely inexpensive so they’re def on my radar. Ugh I’m so bad at …
Thanks yeah the YouTuber I mentioned absolutely raves about the dac. I’ve also read great things about those headphones and they’re insanely inexpensive so they’re def on my radar. Ugh I’m so bad at …
Comparison
r/HeadphoneAdvice
u/Renvaard
The Grado SR60X is praised by the owner for casual listening, with a love for their performance. They are appreciated for their suitability for indie/rock music, which is the user's primary genre of interest. The user enjoys the neutral sound with a focus on detail, soundstage, and imaging, which the Grado SR60X seems to deliver well.
Key Insights
- →Best for indie/rock music lovers.
- →Provides a neutral sound with a focus on detail, soundstage, and imaging.
Top Comments
I own the LCD-X and Clears. In my opinion the clears are better for overall range of music. That’s not to say the LCD-X can’t handle a range of music. The LCDs are more bass heavy and more concert …
I hope this doesn’t sound flippant or overly ignorant of me, but if you can afford $1500 on a pair of headphones, do you think you could afford to spend another $500 to get two of these for $2000? I …
Have Arya and had LCD-X 2021 Sold my LCD-x because the Arya was so much better. Miles better IMO. If you were to show someone who had no idea about headphones the Arya would have that WOW …
Troubleshooting
r/headphones
u/Necessary-Cap-3982
The Grado SR60X headphones have received positive feedback from users for their organic sound and ability to enhance certain music genres like orchestral tracks. Users have praised the boost in low-mid treble and the headphones' soundstage, which helps instruments and vocals stand out. The Grado SR60X is also noted for its 'sparkly' sound and the wow effect it provides upon first use. Some users have mentioned the improvement in sound quality when using jumbo pads, particularly in the low end and treble response.
Key Insights
- →The Grado SR60X is praised for its organic sound and enhancement of certain music genres.
- →The 'sparkly' sound and wow effect upon first use are standout features.
- →Jumbo pads are recommended for improving bass and treble response.
- →The Grado SR60X may face criticism from some audiophiles, but users who own them appreciate their unique sound characteristics.
Top Comments
The Grado sr60X is one on my favorite headphones. I own quite a few headphones and the Grado line will do stuff that others can't. FYI: Expect the anti-Grado freaks to come out and tell you made a …
Even though I own other headphones, grado hits me with the wow effect when I first put it on my head, I love the tuning. Using the jumbo pads makes a lot of difference, especially the low end and …
It's kind of common to see 'audiophiles" denigrate Grados. I enjoyed them when I owned them and don't get the hate.
Scores based on weighted analysis of 29 expert and community sources. How we review →