The entire Grado line has the same essential sound, with more money getting a more refined top end and slightly tighter bass. I wouldn't go below the SR-80's. But I use the 325's which are $295, and the RS-1's, (which are made out of wood) and are $695. And then there is the $1695 PS1000's which are a metal/wood hybrid. Given the wide pricing gaps, you would think that there was no way the SR-80's would hold their own against the PS1000's. But they do. For $95, you can't get a better headphone. If anything, I would say their top end is a touch strident, not harsh, but a little edgy compared to the 325s. Even the $50 iGrados are good albeit a little bass heavy. My advice is to buy the best Grado you can afford. And if you can only swing the SR-80's, don't think you are getting an inferior product, they are great and you can totally mix on them. I also find them quite comfortable. Remember, at least 100 hours of breaking them in before the top mellows out. Just let them run overnight for a week. And do NOT use a sine wave sweep to do it, use music (they are also a great company for repairs and customer service). I have blown my 325's 3 times over the last 8 years, and they fixed them for some small fee, like $25. Not sure if they still do that, but these things were fried (all my fault - eq-ing kick drums etc). American company, fabulous product line top to bottom, great customer service. If you end up getting some Grados, please report back with your impressions.
