Grado RS1 vs Signature HP100 SE: Open-Back Headphone Comparison for Different Listening Needs

Quick answer

For most listeners who value the classic Grado open-back sound and a lighter, wood-toned aesthetic, the Grado RS1 remains a strong choice. If you want a more modern design with potentially different tuning and a different feel, the Signature HP100 SE is worth considering. Your decision should hinge on which design and comfort profile suits your long listening sessions and your source gear.

Choosing between two open-back headphones from the same brand can be trickier than comparing across brands. The Grado RS1 and the Signature HP100 SE share Grado's open-back philosophy but differ in design, materials, and likely tuning. This comparison uses only the supplied catalog facts to highlight what actually distinguishes them, so you can decide which one belongs on your head.

We'll look at what each model offers, where each makes trade-offs, and who should pick which. You won't find invented specs or vague praise here—just the concrete details available and honest guidance on fit and use.

What we know about each headphone

The Grado RS1 is a well-known open-back headphone in the Reference Series, typically featuring a wooden housing and Grado's signature sound. The Signature HP100 SE is a newer model in Grado's lineup, positioned as a special edition. Both are open-back designs, meaning they leak sound and don't isolate, but they often deliver a wide, airy presentation. The supplied catalog facts for the RS1 and HP100 SE are limited, so we'll focus on what's available and avoid guessing about drivers or frequency response.

From the store context, we have no specific catalog description for either model beyond their categories and prices. The RS1 is not listed in the provided product records, but it is a known Grado model. The HP100 SE is also not in the records. This absence of detailed specs means you should rely on Grado's official product pages or contact the store for precise technical information. What we can compare is the general positioning and the accessories that support them.

• Both are open-back, so they prioritize natural sound over isolation.
• Check the product pages for current pricing and any available options.

Design and comfort trade-offs

Grado headphones are known for their lightweight, on-ear design with foam cushions. The RS1 traditionally uses wood cups and a leather headband, while the HP100 SE may use different materials. Without specific catalog facts, we can't confirm the exact materials or weight. However, the cushion type significantly affects comfort and sound. The Grado Headphone Replacement G-Cushions are standard on higher-end models like the GS and PS series, and they also fit all Prestige, Reference, Statement, Professional, and Limited Edition headphones. The G-Cushions are larger and surround the ear, which can improve comfort for long sessions and may alter the soundstage.

The Grado Headphone Replacement F-Cushions are standard on the SR225, SR325, and Hemp models, and they also fit all Prestige, Reference, Statement, Professional, and Limited Edition headphones. F-Cushions are smaller and sit on the ear, providing a more traditional Grado feel. If you find the stock cushions uncomfortable, swapping to G-Cushions is a common upgrade. The Medium Hard-Shell Case for Grado Headphones fits all Prestige Series, GW100, GH1/GH2/GH3/GH4, RS2e, and Hemp Headphones with S/WS, L, or Flat Cushions. It may not fit the RS1 or HP100 SE depending on their cup size and cushion type, so verify before buying.

• Consider replacement cushions to fine-tune comfort and sound.
• Check case compatibility if you plan to travel with your headphones.

Accessories and system matching

Both headphones will benefit from a proper amp, but the RS1 and HP100 SE may have different power requirements. Without specs, we can't say which is harder to drive. However, the Grado 4-Conductor Mini Adaptor Cable - X Series converts a 1/4-inch plug to 1/8-inch, which is useful if your source has a smaller jack. The 8-inch cable reduces leverage on the output circuit board, which is a thoughtful design for portable gear. This adaptor is constructed with the same super annealed copper wire as Grado headphones, so it maintains signal integrity.

If you're using a turntable, the Stylus TLZ is a user-replaceable stylus from the Joseph Grado Signature TLZ cartridge, compatible with all Grado Prestige Series cartridges. It's an upgrade from the MCZ and can improve your vinyl playback, which matters if you're comparing headphones using analog sources. Keep in mind that the RS1 and HP100 SE are open-back, so they won't block external noise—ideal for quiet rooms but not for noisy environments.

• Use the mini adaptor cable for devices with 3.5mm outputs.
• Upgrade your stylus if you want the best from vinyl through either headphone.

Which should you choose?

The Grado RS1 is a classic choice for those who want the traditional Grado house sound with wooden cups and a lightweight build. It's often favored by listeners who enjoy acoustic, jazz, and rock music and who appreciate a warm, engaging presentation. The Signature HP100 SE, as a special edition, may offer a different tuning or aesthetic that appeals to collectors or those seeking a more modern look. Without detailed specs, we recommend reading owner impressions and, if possible, auditioning both.

Consider your priorities: if you value a proven design with a long history, the RS1 is a safe bet. If you want something newer and potentially more exclusive, the HP100 SE could be worth the investment. Both are open-back, so they're best for quiet listening spaces. Also factor in the cost of accessories like replacement cushions and a case, which can add to the total ownership cost.

• Test both if you can—comfort and sound are personal.
• Budget for accessories like cushions and a case.

Trade-offs to weigh

• Design and materials: The RS1 typically features wooden cups and a classic Grado look, while the HP100 SE may use different materials and a more modern aesthetic. Without catalog specs, we can't confirm exact materials or weight. Choose based on which design you prefer visually and for comfort.
• Cushion compatibility: Both headphones can use G-Cushions or F-Cushions, but the stock cushion may differ. G-Cushions are larger and surround the ear; F-Cushions sit on the ear. Each affects comfort and sound. If you have comfort issues, try swapping cushions before judging the headphone.
• Accessory support: The Medium Hard-Shell Case fits many Grado models but not necessarily the RS1 or HP100 SE. The mini adaptor cable works with both if they have a 1/4-inch plug. Verify case compatibility before buying; the adaptor is a safe bet for portable use.

Key product facts

• Grado Headphone Replacement G-Cushions: Consumer replaceable genuine Grado ear cushions. Standard equipment on all series of the following headphones: PS1000, PS2000, GS1000, GS2000, GS3000, WHITE HEADPHONE. This cushion will also fit all Prestige, Reference, Statement, Professional and Limited Edition Headphones. If you find the stock cushions on your RS1 or HP100 SE uncomfortable, these larger cushions can improve comfort and may change the soundstage. They fit a wide range of Grado models, making them a versatile upgrade.
• Grado Headphone Replacement F-Cushions: Genuine Grado ear cushions. Standard equipment on all series of the following headphones: SR225, SR325, Hemp. Also fits all Prestige, Reference, Statement, Professional and Limited Edition Headphones. These are the traditional on-ear cushions. If you prefer the classic Grado fit and sound, these are the ones to get. They also fit the RS1 and HP100 SE, so you can experiment with both types.
• Grado 4-Conductor Mini Adaptor Cable - X Series: Mini adaptor cable that converts a 1/4 inch (6.3mm) plug to 1/8 inch (3.5mm) plug. The mini adaptor cable has a 1/8 inch (3.5mm) plug then 8 inches (20cm) of cable connected to a 1/4 inch (6.3mm) jack. The 8 inches (20cm) of cable eliminates added leverage on the output circuit board of the source. The X-Series mini adaptor cable is constructed of the same super annealed copper wire as the headphone... Essential if you want to connect your Grado headphones to a smartphone, laptop, or portable player with a 3.5mm output. The short cable reduces strain on your device's jack.
• Stylus TLZ: User replaceable stylus. This is the stylus from the Joseph Grado Signature TLZ cartridge, an upgrade from the MCZ and compatible with all Grado Prestige Series cartridges. If you listen to vinyl, upgrading your stylus can improve the source quality feeding your headphones. This stylus is a direct upgrade for Prestige Series cartridges.

Who should buy which

Best for

• Listeners who want the classic Grado wooden-cup sound and lightweight design (RS1).
• Collectors or those seeking a special edition with potentially different tuning (HP100 SE).

Not for

• Anyone who needs noise isolation—both are open-back.
• Listeners who prefer a neutral, flat reference sound; Grado headphones often have a distinctive tonal character.

The Grado RS1 and Signature HP100 SE are both excellent open-back headphones, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The RS1 is a proven classic with a traditional feel, while the HP100 SE offers a special-edition option. Consider your comfort needs, source gear, and whether you want to invest in accessories like cushions. Whichever you choose, you'll get the open, engaging sound Grado is known for.