The Grado SR80 are some interesting headphones. Retro tech is making a comeback, and these open-back, on-ear headphones definitely look (and sound) the part. Are they the best headphones if you value clarity and detail above all else? No. But are they fun, unique, and ideal for vintage lovers? Yes, totally.
The open-back design brought enviable expansiveness to my music, and electronic and acoustic genres sounded particularly good. While the headphones struggled with heavier, layered genres — like hard rock or gritty shoegaze — for the most part, a lot of this texture felt artistic. No, they’re not hi-fi cans, but that’s fine. They’re retro in every sense of the word.
