[cubist]

Can't find out what is big difference between Grado RS1 and RS1i,do they sound differently which are better? What about ones with buttons with RS1 logo on back are they outdated-did I make mistake buying them?

[Drubbing]

Differences are pretty much cosmetic. You can go onto head fi and get thoroughly confused, as people argue about various nuances of sound 'differences', between the two, but that would be pointless.

Not only that, many people say they prefer the previous model. Again, I think much of this is driven by cosmetics; they look a bit different so they must sound different, right?

Bottom line is, if they sounded much different/better, Grado would bump the price up significantly. They cost about the same. You're not missing out on anything.

The real issue is, do you like them? I hope so, they are a terrific phone. I have the RS2 (not 'i'). That is all that matters.

[tudj]

Adding to Drubbing's "The real issue is, do you like them?"

Have you actually listened to them? I heard various Grado headphones at a head-fi meet on saturday and I have to say that I really didn't like them at all, they are very bright and aggressive. I couldn't wear a pair for more than 10 minutes without having to take them off - several others said the same.

I'm not bashing Grado, they are very popular and I can see why alot people do love them, they just aren't my thing - I just wanted to warn you incase you hadn't heard them. They cost quite alot and if you are buying blind you may end up dissapointed. (On the up side - they will resell easily)

[Drubbing]

Originally Posted by tudj

Adding to Drubbing's "The real issue is, do you like them?"

Have you actually listened to them? I heard various Grado headphones at a head-fi meet on saturday and I have to say that I really didn't like them at all, they are very bright and aggressive. I couldn't wear a pair for more than 10 minutes without having to take them off - several others said the same.

I think OP does have these, as he's wondering if he should have got the i instead.

Which did you listen to? Your experience was as mine of the Alessandro MS2, a 'toned down' SR325. The RS series is nowhere as aggressive, although they do have a bright and clear top end, as all Grados do, it's nowhere as full on as the MS2, they're far more refined, to my ears.

But your point remains relevant for cubist. Don't rely on seasoned users comparisons of the 2. Very minor (perceived) differences are blown up to be massive differences, that when heard for yourself after all the talk, turn out to be negligible or even non existent.

If you like them, enjoy them.

[tudj]

I heard SR225, MS-2, RS-1 (the ones with buttons), GS-1000s and HF-2

The only ones I liked were the HF-2.

[Drubbing]

Well that's a fair spread of their range. Grados obviously aren't for you.