Insightful, detailed and spacious presentation ; Striking design ; Low impedance drivers

Comfort may be an issue for some ; Design isn’t especially portable

A terrifically insightful performance is the highlight of Grado’s premium Prestige X-series headphones. The changes to the design and drivers maintain the Brooklyn brand’s position as purveyors of neutral headphone sound.

Clarity, fidelity and eloquence to spare ; Brilliantly balanced and convincing presentation ; Sturdily made

Wilfully old-school looks ; Wired and then some ; Open-backed configuration is anti-social

Yes, you have to make allowances and accommodations. No, you won’t be very popular if you decide to use these headphones on a commute. But where fidelity and simple musicality are concerned, it’s difficult to know how you could better spend your money.