ERA-1

About the ERA-1

The Quad ERA-1 represents Quad's first venture into headphones, featuring a proprietary planar magnetic driver with an ultra-thin diaphragm thinner than a human hair, fused to a precisely arranged magnet system for fast, open, and transparent sound akin to their legendary ESL electrostatic speakers. Open-back design delivers spacious soundstage, low distortion, enhanced dynamics, and detailed audio with deep authoritative bass, nuanced mids, and extended highs. Build includes matte silver-grey metal earcups with black mesh vents, leather-clad headband pad, adjustable yokes, and detachable fabric-jacketed cable. Accessories: hard-shell carrying case, two pairs of earpads (fabric-covered soft-grip and perforated sheepskin), 54-84 inch (1.4-2.15m) cable with 3.5mm plug, and 1/4-inch adapter. Recommended with headphone amplifier like Quad PA-One for optimal performance. Praised for clarity, slam, soundstage, and value under $800-1000.