OAE1: The result of decades of research and development
The acoustic concept
The outstanding acoustic concept of the OAE1 sets completely new standards in the field of audiophile listening.
Precise mechanics and components made of high-quality fabrics, plastics, aluminum and stainless steel characterize the OAE1 and the largely identical OAE1 signature from grell. A multitude of acoustically transparent fabrics surround a filigree frame and ensure a natural sound experience.
Simple and ingenious: the special geometry of the baffles in combination with the acoustically permeable damper is patent pending and takes into account the uniqueness of the individual ear geometry. This makes audiophile music enjoyment possible for everyone!
How it works

At a concert, in conversation or at home with the stereo loudspeaker system, we hear the sound from the front. If the sound comes from the side, we turn our head during active listening so that we can receive the sound from the front again.

In conventional headphones, the transducers (speakers) are positioned so that the sound comes directly from the left and right. This creates a sound field that builds up next to the ear. The result: the sound reaches the ear distorted.

The two speaker membranes of the grell OAE1 are positioned at an angle to the ear. They project the sound waves as if they were coming from a source directly in front of us. Sound is also picked up from the front in a recording studio. This corresponds to the optimum positioning of loudspeakers for stereo reproduction.

Our ears are designed to process sound optimally from the front. And the sound field of the OAE1 is similar to that of sound sources that are directed forwards. This means that the individual geometry of our ear is taken into account. We perceive the sound as naturally as possible.
More info in the video
The baffle
The baffle also contributes to the unique listening experience that the OAE1 promises. The OAE1 has an extremely large, curved and open baffle, which is complemented by an open ear cushion. This design allows the sound to spread naturally without being reflected by large closed areas. The high-precision stainless steel mesh guarantees high acoustic permeability and controlled bass reproduction. This prevents sound coloration and resonances.

Our innovations make the OAE1 unique.
Features
OAE1
Natural, sound field shaping due to front-mounted transducers
Extremely open design avoids resonances
Broadband transducers with bio-cellulose diaphragm
Ergonomic fit
Precise stainless steel damping mesh
User replaceable ear pads and headband
Low tolerances for frequency response, left-right deviation and distortion
Silver-plated OFC copper cable
Can be used with single- or double-sided cables
1.8 m (6 ft) double-sided (single-ended) cable with 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) plug and 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) adapter
OAE1 signature
Natural, sound field shaping due to front-mounted transducers
Extremely open design avoids resonances
Broadband transducers with bio-cellulose diaphragm
Ergonomic fit
Precise stainless steel damping mesh
User replaceable ear pads and headband
Extremely low tolerances for frequency response, left-right deviation and distortion
Silver-plated OFC copper cable
Can be used with single-sided or double-sided cables
1.8 m (6 ft) single-sided balanced cable with 4.4 mm (0.1735 inch) TRRRS plug
1.8 m (6 ft) double-sided (single-ended) cable with 3.5 mm (1/8 inch) plug and 6.3 mm (1/4 inch) adapter
Technical Data
OAE1
Frequency response:
12 - 32,000 Hz (-3 dB), 06 - 44,000 Hz (-10 dB)
Transducer principle:
dynamic
Ear coupling:
circumaural
Sound characteristics:
front-oriented loudness diffuse field equalization
Adaptation to the individual hearing curve:
Sound field - auricle interaction
Nominal impedance:
38 Ω
Sound pressure level:
100 dB at 1 kHz 1 VRMS
Max. Long-term input power according to IEC 60268-7:
500 mW
Distortion factor at 1 kHz 100 dB:
0,05 %.
Weight without cable:
375 g
Tension force of the headband:
3 N
Connection headphone side:
2.5 mm TRRS plug
Connection to a device:
3.5 mm stereo plug
Screw adapter:
3.5 mm -> 6.3 mm
Connection to a device:
mm balanced TRRRS stereo plug
Screw adapter:
3.5 mm -> 6.3 mm
OAE1 signature
Frequency response:
12 - 32,000 Hz (-3 dB), 06 - 44,000 Hz (-10 dB)
Transducer principle:
dynamic
Ear coupling:
circumaural
Sound characteristics:
front-oriented loudness diffuse field equalization
Adaptation to the individual hearing curve:
Sound field - auricle interaction
Nominal impedance:
38 Ω
Sound pressure level:
100 dB at 1 kHz 1 VRMS
Max. Long-term input power according to IEC 60268-7:
500 mW
Distortion factor at 1 kHz 100 dB:
0,05 %.
Weight without cable:
375 g
Tension force of the headband:
3,5 N
Cable I:
double-sided, silver-coated,
OFC, 1.8 m
Connections headphone side:
2 x 2.5 mm TRRS plugs
Connection to a device:
3.5 mm stereo plug
Cable II:
one-sided, silver-coated,
OFC, 1.8 m
Connection headphone side:
2.5 mm TRRS plug