Rare GRADO HP-1 (HP-1000 Series) Headphones with Polarity Switches, RA-1 Amp, Extension Cable

Model HP-1 was originally released in 1989. This set was purchased new in 1992 by the present owner.

Handmade by Joe Grado, this is a classic. Only 1,000 HP-1000 Series headphones were made, and fewer HP-1 models. The HP-1000 Series includes HP-1 with polarity reversal switches, HP-2 without switches, and HP-3, a “downgraded” version.

It comes with upgraded, flat pads (TTVJ Deluxe Flat Pads, $50/pair) from Todd The Vinyl Junkie in 2016, reported to be an improvement over the original. Included is an unused set of replacement pads from Grado in 2011. Grado specified flat pads for optimal sound quality.

Grado RA-1/H Headphone Amp

This amp is machined from a solid block of mahogany, measures 5" wide, 5 1/2" deep and 1 1/2" tall, and weighs 15 oz. It is DC-driven by two 9-volt batteries for extremely low distortion. Battery clips have been replaced. The wood case has a few blemishes.

"With a tube-like rendering of timbre and a sweet, relaxed sound, the Grado RA-1 makes extended headphone listening a joy." Reviewed by Robert Harley, Absolute Sound

15-foot Grado Carbon Extension Cable

Excellent condition. Always carefully stored to prevent kinks or breaks. Sound quality is identical with or without this extension cable.