Grell Audio OAE2 Open-Back Front-Oriented Headphones

Created by Axel Grell, who spent three decades at Sennheiser and is closely associated with the HD280, HD580, HD600, HD650, HD800, and the flagship HE1 system, the OAE2 applies a “front-oriented acoustic concept” to deliver a more natural, speaker-like listening experience, the designer states.

We introduced the brand in 2021, and Grell is now offering its OAE2 open-back headphones internationally after their initial local release. They will soon be available in the US, UK, and other markets.

Designed and engineered in Germany, the OAE2 aims to bring the realistic depth, precise placement, and expansive scale of loudspeaker listening directly to headphones. It promises listeners a more engaging and authentic audio experience than conventional 'in-head' sound.

Rather than placing the sound source directly over the ear and sending sound straight into the ear canal, Grell’s design for the OAE2 positions the acoustic output to work deliberately with the outer ear and the natural localisation cues the brain uses to interpret space, rather than relying on artificial effects.

We’re told this concept is based on a simple observation. When listening to speakers, sound reaches the ear after interacting with the head, pinna, and upper body. This creates subtle timing, phase, and tonal cues that help the brain determine direction and distance.

Grell collaborates with Leibniz University Hannover to research spatial hearing and headphone perception, which shapes both the physical architecture of the OAE2 and its tuning philosophy. The result, according to Grell, is a headphone that prioritises coherent imaging, natural treble perception and controlled low-frequency behaviour, allowing the spatial concept to work naturally rather than drawing attention to itself.

Furthermore, Grell positions the OAE2 as a starting point for future development, with further models planned that build on the same acoustic principles across different use cases, including professional monitoring and gaming.

The 378g headphones use a 40 mm wideband dynamic transducer with a bio-cellulose membrane, combined with a carefully implemented damping strategy that includes a precision-manufactured stainless-steel mesh produced in Germany. Key components, including the fully metal frame, are modular and replaceable, allowing the headphone to be maintained over time.

We are told that the OAE2 has a frequency response of 12 Hz – 34 kHz (-3 dB) / 6 Hz – 46 kHz (-10 dB), and 0.05% THD at 1 kHz (100 dB). Nominal impedance is stated as 38 Ω, alongside a sensitivity of 100 dB (1 kHz, 1 VRMS).

Beyond acoustics, the design ethos of OAE2 highlights Grell’s belief that premium headphones should be serviceable, durable, and designed for long-term use. Packaging follows the same philosophy by moving towards plastic-free materials and minimal waste.

Grell encourages spending time with the OAE2 to allow the brain to adapt to its presentation. The headphones ship with both balanced (4.4 mm) and single-ended (3.5 mm) connectors, making them compatible with many headphone amplifiers and audio sources.

Grell OAE2 is set to roll out internationally from 31 March, priced at US$599 | £499 | €499.

For more information visit Grell Audio