Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones

GRELL OAE2 OPEN-BACK HEADPHONES ANNOUNCED FOR INTERNATIONAL RELEASE

Grell Audio has confirmed wider international availability of the Grell OAE2 open-back headphones, developed by Axel Grell. Following an initial launch in Germany, the model will roll out across the US, UK and additional markets from 31st March 2026.

Designed and engineered in Germany, the Grell OAE2 is positioned as a research-driven open-back design focused on recreating the scale, depth and placement associated with loudspeaker listening rather than a conventional “in-head” headphone presentation.

GRELL OAE2 OPEN-BACK HEADPHONES AND A FRONT-ORIENTED ACOUSTIC APPROACH

The Grell OAE2 open-back headphones are built around a front-oriented acoustic concept. Instead of directing sound straight into the ear canal from a centrally positioned driver, the design aims to interact more deliberately with the outer ear.

According to Grell, the approach is based on how we perceive sound from loudspeakers, where audio interacts with the head and pinna before reaching the ear. This interaction creates spatial cues that help define direction and distance. The OAE2 is intended to preserve more of these cues in headphone listening, with an emphasis on stable imaging and a presentation closer to nearfield monitors.

AXEL GRELL’S BACKGROUND AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE GRELL OAE2 OPEN-BACK HEADPHONES

Axel Grell joined Sennheiser in 1991 and was involved in the development of several well-known models, including the Sennheiser HD 600, Sennheiser HD 650, Sennheiser HD 800 and the Sennheiser HE 1.

With Grell Audio, he is working on a smaller scale, focusing on alternative approaches to headphone acoustics. The OAE2 is described as a foundation for further models based on similar principles, with future developments expected to address additional use cases including professional monitoring and gaming.

RESEARCH-LED DESIGN

The Grell OAE2 project draws on research into spatial hearing and headphone perception, including collaboration with Leibniz University Hannover. Findings from this research have informed both the physical architecture and the tuning of the headphones.

The stated aim is coherent imaging, controlled low-frequency behaviour and natural treble perception, supporting the spatial concept without relying on artificial effects. Grell notes that listeners accustomed to traditional headphone presentation may require time to adjust to the different spatial perspective.

ENGINEERING, MATERIALS AND SERVICEABILITY

The Grell OAE2 open-back headphones use a 40mm wideband dynamic driver with a bio-cellulose membrane. Damping includes a precision stainless-steel mesh manufactured in Germany. The headphones have a fully metal frame, and key components are modular and replaceable to support long-term maintenance.

Packaging has been designed to reduce plastic use, aligning with the company’s focus on durability and serviceability.

GRELL OAE2 CONNECTIVITY AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

The OAE2 is supplied with both single-ended and balanced cable options:

1.8m single-ended cable (3.5mm)

1.8m balanced cable (4.4mm)

3.5mm to 6.3mm screw-on adaptor

Key specifications are as follows:

Frequency response: 12Hz – 34kHz (-3dB) / 6Hz – 46kHz (-10dB)

Transducer principle: Dynamic

Ear coupling: Circum-aural

Nominal impedance: 38Ω

Sensitivity: 100dB (1kHz, 1 VRMS)

THD: 0.05% (1kHz, 100dB)

Weight (without cable): 378g

CANJAM NYC 2026

The Grell OAE2 will make its first US public appearance at CanJam NYC (7^th – 8^th March 2026), where attendees will be able to audition the headphones and place pre-orders.

GRELL OAE2 OPEN-BACK HEADPHONES PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The Grell OAE2 open-back headphones are scheduled for international release from 31st March 2026. In the UK they are available through Jackrabbit’s dealer network.

Pricing is set at $599 USD / £499 GBP / €499 EUR.