Koss Porta Pro vs. KPH30i vs. KSC75 - The BEST Walkman Headphones

[@Slapo007]

Interesting comparison. Of the three, I only have the KSC75 (which I have modded a little) they hold their own well even against significantly more expensive headphones. They generally lack the detail of higher end headphones, but the signature is good for pretty much anything I've used them for. They do have a decent level of detail, too, but you can only do so much on a budget, I guess. I have a tip on how to put them on easily: Try it like with glasses, with the ends of the clips going behind your ears. Then you can just rotate them into position. Once you do it a couple of times, it becomes quite natural and very fast.

[@SuperReview]

I'll try it out ✌️ I did the PartsExpress headband mod, but the part that ships from Amazon now is different from the headband most users recommend. It still works, but requires some effort...and the headband is too small for head. At max size, it doesn't fit on my head unless I tilt the whole unit forward.

[@Slapo007]

Please do. :-) I had tried the Parts Express headband too, but the two I got (yep) had too many sharp edges and were just too thin so even a slight tilt made it uncomfortable to wear despite weighing almost nothing. I ended up binning the headbands. I also tried the SOL republic headband but it clamps hard enough to kill some of the airiness that's so nice about the headphones. The clips really comfy and you can bend them a little after removing them from the ear cups, as they're basically a steel wire in silicone. Helps tune the hooks for larger/smaller ears. The mod I did to my KSC75 is called the Kramer mod, I think. Basically, punch a couple of holes into the plastic cover in front of the driver. There's a couple of videos of this on KZbin, too. It boosts clarity and treble a bit (the mids too, but less so) and I quite liked it. I also found using an equaliser helps get them to sound even better, especially for something like games and spoken word. I don't have the exact parameters, but that's really because I have a program called FXSound Enhancer and its Fidelity and Dynamic boost sliders are really nice for quick tweaking and I found they work pretty well especially for games. They can probably be mimicked using an equaliser, but I haven't managed to get it quite there myself.

[@angeloralph3304]

How'd you mod them?

[@SuperReview]

The KSC75 speakers easily pop off of their clips and can be then snapped onto a headband.

[@user-vi3tb3bw5t]

You don't need the parts express band, you can just pop them on the portapro headband.

[@JasonRasmussen]

It's criminal how good the PortaPros sound for the price. So smooth, powerful, clear and can listen to them all day. Epic.

[@SuperReview]

Have you tried the KSC75? 👀

[@JasonRasmussen]

@@SuperReview Yes. Bought them for my wife. I still prefer the smooth PortaPros. Use them daily at work.

[@allansh828]

Jason Rasmussen If you plugged those Koss headphones to a decent amp, they sound significantly better.

[@nitehawk4067]

@@SuperReview i have porta pro and ksc75 , porta pro is bass ish and warmer. i like both but my favourite is porta pro

[@ADcrackerjack]

Yep. I’ve got mine for 2 years and love them. I’m considering getting the KSC75, but the KPH with a mic could be used for PS4 gaming right? And they’re cheaper than the Porta Pro KTC. What do yo think?

[@LuisXGP]

Video starts at 14:30 You are welcome.

[@andrikj]

Thanks

[@troynguyen1346]

Thumb up

[@Andy80F]

Well done saves a good deal off waffle.

[@kvn864]

lol thanks

[@marcos-pm7oh]

The first part of the video is quite interesting

[@HiCZoK]

I love porta pro for home use too. Works great with ps4 controller output, have amazing bass(Or I am crazy), soundstage and have this fun warm sound. Same with music. It's just a relaxing, fun headphone and I do not understand the craze with boring studio and neutral headphones for hundreds of $... And Its super comfy. Even during hot summer, I can forget I am wearing them

[@SuperReview]

I recently added some Yaxi earpads to my Porta Pros and I'm in love all over again.

[@jerryjb]

@@SuperReview You can put the yaxi pads on the kph30i's as well! They improve the comfort and even the sound in my opinion. Unlike the porta pros, you do have to take the earcups apart and it's a pain to do if you don't want to destroy your original pads. I think there's a few videos on how to do it on KZbin though

[@petervdveenmuis]

Min 14:30 soundquality.

[@putinstea]

thx for saving me 10 min

[@agnieszkawildhirt1353]

@@putinstea 14

[@putinstea]

@@agnieszkawildhirt1353 How pedantic do you have to be to write this 8 months later lmao

[@cine-ish]

@@putinstea 14:30

[@medium-unit-onbreak]

@@putinstea 14

[@Eskimo511]

I like the sound profiles are presented as histograms, which is much easier to understand. thank you!

[@michaelcorcoran8768]

It's fascinating how the port-a-pro, the kphh30i and the Ksc75 old have their different acolytes! Everyone seems to at least love one Koss. But plenty of debates on which one

[@antoinep9733]

Great comparison, as they say around here, “you deserve more subs”. From what I’ve read the KSC75 and PortaPro driver units un-clip and are interchangeable. With a bit of clamping pressure the bass improves x best of both worlds!

[@SuperReview]

They are indeed interchangeable, though I recall it being kinda hard to get the KSC speakers in and out of the PP band.

[@antoinep9733]

Super* Review Just ordered a pair of KSC75X off Massdrop to see what all the fuss is about. I do like that open-back sound, I have a $9 pair of earbuds that sound 80% as good as my Sennheiser HD-6XXs.

[@SuperReview]

@@antoinep9733 They really are shockingly good. Very open and airy.

[@kedarkedar1520]

@@antoinep9733 what is the name of your 9$ earbuds please

[@darensweeney5925]

I have the porapros and the KPH30is. I also liked the 30is, but mine fell apart in a couple of places. Luckily, Koss is great about returning them to be fixed at minimal charge.

[@tcrvo01]

great review helped me decied what to buy, the KPH30i :) also i liked the illustration you did at 15:14 , creative way to explain sound beside just talking about it usally hard to follow if you arn't that versed in the subject )

[@R8Prototype]

Great comparison and review. Started with the KPH30i and ended up warranty upgrading to the PortaPros because of the adjustment arm on the KPH30i snapping constantly(2-3 warranty exchanges). I think I like the sound of the KPH30i more but I can't recall that well since it's been such a long time

[@SuperReview]

I rec Yaxi pads for Porta Pro if you prefer the sound of KPH30.

[@R8Prototype]

@@SuperReview ooo that's useful info. Thanks for the tip, I'll look into it!

[@Saint_Cuthbert]

Thank you! Picked up the KPH30i to use while sitting in the office cubicle. Looking forward to trying them out.

[@SuperReview]

Lemme know if you dig 'em 👍

[@Saint_Cuthbert]

@@SuperReview just gave them a quick listen. Truly amazing for $30. Thank you. I went ahead and bought some yaxi pads to make them a bit more comfortable!

[@kylemueller]

I put the ksc75X drivers into my portapro headband, and it's an awesome combo! You should try it out!

[@xOogieBoogie3x]

Basically KTX-Pro design. They have the KSC-75 driver in a fully open-back package.

[@davidmaiden2990]

The trick I have learnt for the KSC75 is to go to the local electronics store and buy the cheapest headphones with the clip on headband and replace the ear clips of the KSC75 with the band. The KSC75 have a great sound and sit nicely on the ears with the headband especially at work where I wear them most of the day, also doesn't leave you totally isolated with what is going on around you.

[@SuperReview]

I also appreciate not being isolated 👍

[@richardalangreen]

I did the same conversion to a cheap clip-on band, buying a $7 Parts Express headset from Amazon as the donor, and you get the best of all worlds: the KSC75 sound, slightly better positioning on the ear, much more convenient and comfortable slip-on headset! You just gently pry the KSC75 drivers off of the earclips, pry the terrible drivers off of the Parts Express headset, and pop the KSC75 drivers onto the Parts Express headset. Here's a link with photos describing the conversion: www.head-fi.org/threads/simple-ksc75-to-headband-mod-easy-as-pie-pics-56k-maybe.232714/page-14

[@peskypesky]

I love the KSC75s. They need a headband to really reach their full potential. Get the Parts Express headband for like $2 or $3. The bass response improves dramatically with the increased pressure provided by headbands.

[@SuperReview]

My Partsexpress band is too small for my big head :'(

[@todd92371]

Try out the Yaxi pads also with them. Just amazing.

[@keithgilliard9191]

Radio Shaak made a rebadged koss headphone in 80 s and 90 s and gave lifetime warranty. Great sounding and at great price. They had a titanium drivers

[@SuperReview]

Was it a version of the Mac5?

[@Lumiiinine]

just got the ksc75s because I needed earbuds/headphones I could wear with a helmet that would fall off. I used to use AirPods but then they fell off and got run over ;-;. Excited to see how they'll handle!

[@luigismilazzo]

The best is ksc75 drivers on pp headband with yaxi pads. 100 euro, but still worthy

[@kylevanwagn3r]

I've been digging your videos a lot. I got a Walkman about the same time as your review, and the Porta Pros a couple days later. I love the Porta Pros, but they definitely get a little muddy toward the high end. I recently picked up a Dragonfly Red because my laptop's on board audio was horrible, and it's changed everything. The warmth and thump of the Porta Pros that I love is still there, but it's eliminated the muddiness and cleaned up that high end. I highly recommend a Dragonfly Red to anyone.

[@SuperReview]

Do you get the same effect using the Dragonfly on your Walkman? Or just on your laptop?

[@kylevanwagn3r]

I'd actually say that the Dragonfly Red and the Walkman are neck and neck when bringing the best out of the Porta Pros. The Dragonfly brings a little more soundstage and a little better imaging, but by a very slight amount. I haven't tried running the Dragonfly through the Walkman, but it seems pretty unnecessary after doing a direct A/B comparison on a few songs. They sound extremely similar. I had just gotten so used to the Porta Pros from the jack on my laptop and hadn't touched my Walkman in so long I forgot how much it brings out of them as well. But they definitely still sound muddy when in direct comparison to the KSC75's, but the KSC75's sound too sharp for my tastes. I love the warmth of the Porta Pros.

[@doctoranthonyf]

Yes, FWIW, many people find the KSC75’s to be quite bright, artificially so, sibilant/sharp. And further, they lack/subtract bass, bass that should be there. The Porta Pro’s, many consider (not all because it’s opinion, unless measuring) to have a better balance in music representation. The highs are representative, rather than emphasized-as with the 75’s, and the bass is full and foundational, it has proper authority. Thus it’s tremendous and deserved reputation, one the KSC75’s will never have. However, what are probably the best $15 headphones available today? Likely the KFC75’s! They are a tremendous value! Enjoy!

[@andrea585ny]

Thanks! Been checking reviews for KPH30i and yours was very helpful. The 75s are "Wow!" headphones. Porta Pros on the other hand need a little help. If you try replacing the stock pads with Sennheiser HD414 pads I think you'll find them more enjoyable. They move the drivers further away from your ears and give the bass a bit more room to move. Makes em sound less muddy and congested. Cheers!

[@SuperReview]

Great tip! I agree the KSC75s are immediate wow. I think the KPH30i is somewhere between the KSC and Porta Pro -- I'd be interested if they sound at all like the Porta Pro with those Sennheiser pads 🤔

[@andrea585ny]

I didn't much care for the sound of the PPros until I replaced the pads. It does make a world of difference not only with sound but clamping pressure as well. Now you can put those soft PPro pads on your 75's. (Btw the Sennheiser pads are yellow, I dyed mine black 😉) Happy Thanksgiving

[@medium-unit-onbreak]

@@andrea585ny do the Sennheiser pads work for the kph30i?

[@andrea585ny]

@@medium-unit-onbreak I didn't end up buying the 30is but I'm going to guess that they won't fit. Sennheiser pads have the typical circular shape

[@whythis-]

I'm thinking of getting the KPH30i with some earcups thanks for clearing up some of my questions.

[@Tiznado]

I came into the Koss game a little late, but i am excited to try them out from Amazon!

[@SuperReview]

Lemme know what you think.

[@Ventell_]

Thank you for my new kph30i - all fixed version of portapro.

[@SuperReview]

It's so good 😍 What do you like about it vs. the Porta Pro?

[@Ventell_]

@@SuperReview Pros: The sound is better, more balanced (still strong but improved bass, a little quieter but better mid, hight has finally arrived and sounds as loud as mid; it seems the bass is still in the first place). Does not pull out hair, there is no contact with metal (no more acne from hypothermia). All joints are made of silicone, the design does not make noise, the cable does not make noise when in contact with clothing. Finally a modern cable with a good microphone and plug. Comfortable to wear around the neck. The rear perforation of the speakers is closed by a paralon from dust entering there. Better ergonomics. Simple shapes - less wind noise. Cheaper. Cons: Name :) Heat Colors Portability Music is heard to all around even more.

[@daladirn5119]

I use the Porta Pros and have been using them for about 8 years now. I have a larger head, so they are fully extended. I don't really notice any clamping pressure because of that. I never had an issue them sliding like you've shown and they feel very comfortable. Since they do not slide and setting them up is super easy, putting them on, even when they are folded up, is super fast. I never have to fiddle with them once they are on my head. Biggest issue is probably than once a year or two I need to replace the foam pads, because they got so worn out, that they fall off easily. But that's also because I often fall asleep with them on and the pads experience forces which they shouldn't. Awesome thing about the headphones is that if you turn down the volume or turn off the music completely you can hear everything around you very well, so they are awesome when you're walking outside, because you're still aware of your surroundings. EDIT: I want to add that the cable on the basic Porta Pros is very rigid. I don't handle it with care, but it's still working without issues. Only thing about it was the jack, which started having issues after a few years of heavy use, so I replaced it with a metal jack that's very rigid and been using that since.

[@daladirn5119]

​@muzik note thanks I guess xD

[@aliaksandrilyushenka5597]

Thank you for your review! Could you tell me more about sound quality, please? I watched the video but I'd like to know how they sound with heavy basses in heavy electronic genres like hardcore or gabber. Thank you very much, sir!

[@daladirn5119]

@@aliaksandrilyushenka5597 Their sound quality is decent, nothing extra. Them being open back definitely helps, but then again if you like blasting your music, everyone will hear it. They are a little bit basey, but really only a little. I'd say they aren't too good for those genres, but if they are as popular in your country as in mine, then it shouldn't be too hard to find someone close to you who uses them and try them.

[@franzb69]

i broke a couple of those porta pro's when i iwas a kid. they sounded great for what they are.

[@Spintechfilms]

Those PortaPros are legit good for hearing that punch always feel so damn good

[@SuperReview]

Yeahhhhhh

[@antben]

I tested the PortaPro and KSC75 side by side with FLAC files to make sure they received as much information as possible. There is no possible comparison between them: the PortaPro has generous bass and a very pleasant sound altogether, the KSC75 totally lack these bass and the sound is much less enjoyable. There's no way to adjust the pressure of the KSC75 on your ears unless you bend them with pliers. Both are very comfortable. Their weight and size and the fact that they are foldable (PortaPro) make them perfect travel companions with minimal to no compromise on sound quality.

[@adrenalrush1320]

Which one did u like better?

[@antben]

​@@adrenalrush1320 Clearly the PortaPros. Their only downside is that the factory pads are a bit thin and uncomfortable. I found larger and concave ones on AliExpress for $4 that are better or you can get the Yaxi which are great too and pricier. The slightly increased distance also improves the sound. Wearing them over a beanie or hoodie does the same.

[@squee147]

Simple hack for the Porta pro headband, tape the overlapping portion with electric tape, stops them from resizing and pulling hair

[@SuperReview]

I did something similar, except I put tape on the outside of the adjusters to prevent them from sliding down. I use a sort of gaffer tape, so doesn't look too cheap or bad, IMO. Here's a photo: instagram.com/p/B-nTDqepM66/

[@rsdno]

I have all 3 headsets and my NW-a55 Walkman I dont need to fear losing them or wrecking them

[@noshow]

KSC75 is such a good deal for headphones

[@SuperReview]

Koss better not get themselves sued into oblivion 👀

[@MeLikesPotato]

Great video, convinced me to get the KPH30i, without instantly feeling buyer's remorse

[@SuperReview]

They so good! I bought a second pair. Lemme know how you like them.

[@MeLikesPotato]

@@SuperReview After using them for a few days, I have to say it's a perfect replacement for my old AKG K518s. They're much more comfortable and the sound quality+soundstage are great as well. Thank you so much for the recommendation.

[@Kiddomike]

First of all, I love the Grado signature sound. Coming from the Grado 125i’s I think the comparison of the Koss KSC75 and KPH30i headphones is accurate. I am happy that I bought the two for my portable audio setup. I still think that the KPH30i are “muffled” compared to the more open back Grado’s but I would not fault it as it still has an amazing sound! I think I’m just used to the high-mids and high frequency bias of a Grado headphone. The KSC75 are indeed more comfortable and does sound similar to the Grado’s. I like that it’s more portable than a Grado and it has microphone! So, I can use it to take calls from my phone.

[@peskypesky]

Thank you for the great comparison review. And don't mind the haters. Subscribed.

[@glgermain]

KSC75s are a gateway drug. They are so good for the price that it will start you on your audiophile quest. Hard not to recommend them as a starting headphone. They have been around forEVER - maybe 20+ years or more. They have a different titanium coated driver, and are brighter sounding, than the porta pros or sportapros. I have not heard the KPH30is. I think they are a newer headphone for Koss. KSC75s are like $15 at amazon, sportapros are $22, KPH30i and portapros are about $30. Best deals are the KSC75 and sportapros (especially if you cut holes in the back of the sportapros.

[@a..b1343]

Hi I've heard the ksc75 break easily, do the sportapros have a similar problem too?

[@glgermain]

@@a..b1343 The Koss headphones are cheaply made - almost all plastic (there is some thin metal on the headbands), and thin soldered wires without much in the way of strain relief. On the other hand, They have not failed on me. More importantly, after my daughter broke several headphones, I gave her a pair of sportapros, and she's had them for a couple years of rough handling and they still work fine. So yes, cheaply built as expected for the price, but surprisingly sturdy. Also, Koss will fix them for free if they ever break, just have to pay for postage to send them in. I don't know of any other company that does that.

[@a..b1343]

@@glgermain thanks for the reply! The thing is I live outside USA, so paying for shipping would be impractical for me, so i just would like to be sure they work for a couple years or so.

[@Viewer13128]

which one has the least sound leakage? do these leak as much sound as the hifiman arya?

[@SuperReview]

Sound leakage is basically the same for these, they are all the same speakers, just different headbands. Probably not as leaky as the Arya, but not far off.

[@samafshar]

In my opinion, in terms of price to performance, KSC75s are the best audio product ever made.

[@SuperReview]

Think I agree.

[@Wulveric]

I've seen a lot of reviews of people showing pictures of their KPH30i's breaking. Especially on Amazon. That's the only thing stopping me from buying them. I don't want to spend money on something that's gonna snap so easily. Durability is really important to me. I want something that's gonna last for years, not months. Are they still the best option?

[@SuperReview]

Mine aren't broken, not sure what it takes to break them.

[@samafshar]

I have a big head and I broke 2 pairs, but still worth giving a try. KPH40s are out tho and there’ll be no more clamping/breaking issues. (If you can find them! They’ve been out of stock for 2 months now.)

[@PhoggHawk]

Soundwise, my least favorite of the 3 is the KSC75. My favorite is the Porta Pro. I think they have the best bass, crisp vocals and micro details. Once adjusted, and with the Yaxi pads, they are incredibly comfortable. I don't like the Porta Pro with the stock pads. It digs into my ears and is uncomfortable. They are nearly the exact same stock pads as the KSC75. I ended up putting Yaxi pads on both, actually. Much more padding and area for resting against your ears. I really like the KPH30i, and it is very similar to the Porta Pro in sound, but I still think the Porta Pro is slightly better in every sonic category. I once highly recommended the KPH30i, but I don't recommend it over the Porta Pro for longevity or sound. For the price, being less expensive than the Porta Pro, the KPH30i is the sweet spot, though. My Kph30i is the clear one and both sides of the headband have broken. I have it held together with clear tape. I think the other colors are a different type of plastic, so they might be a little bit better. I gave them to my 10 year old son and he uses them for gaming with the microphone. Of course, he is the one who broke them, lol! So they aren't kid proof. All three of the Koss headphones are exceptionally good for sound, so you can't go wrong with either one! But the Porta Pro with Yaxi pads is the king!

[@desmoface]

I have the Ksc-75’s and the kph-30i’s and the Ksc-75’s sound noticeably better. Thanks for the review.

[@SuperReview]

I got a pair of CL-10s, I think they're a version of the Macs. I like 'em, strong bass but still high on clarity.

[@pedecia]

Amazing work thank you!!!

[@mackenlyparmelee5440]

I have the portapros stock. I just use EQ to boost the treble and roll off the bass and they sound fantastic

[@SuperReview]

Yaxi pads help boost the treble a bit, without EQ.

[@mackenlyparmelee5440]

@@SuperReview Funny you mention. I just got a pair of yaxi pads in the mail today and they did just that. Now I'm listening without any EQ and I think they're pretty great.

[@HDEditor6]

Nicely done review. Good catch on how the cord behaves differently with a hoodie and I suspect you are right about the extra thickness of the cord where it enters the earpieces. Regarding the clamp pressure on the Porta Pro X, did you try the "Comfort Zone" adjustment on each earpiece and did that make any difference in wearability?

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, the ComfortZone adjustment helps. I think it's still more clamping pressure than the KPH30i, but the bigger problem for me is that ComfortZone switch is another thing that resets when you take off the headset. I even think the sound improves a bit when the clamping pressure is reduced. But it's yet another (small) hassle that's not applicable to the KPH30i :)

[@artheen4713]

One problem with the Porta Pro and its "Comfort Zone" is for those of us with above average size ears - i.e. people above the age of 40. The top of the ear extends between the ear pad and the comfort zone, and rubs against the folding hook. This is very uncomfortable, especially for the new model where the hook isn't even filed down to be smooth, but is cheap stamped metal with sharp edges. I am on my fourth set of Porta Pros (that's how much I like them), but the first thing I have to do is dremel off the hook. One good thing is that Koss sells replacement pads both for the ear pad and the comfort pad, and if you switch the comfort zone pads out, you can cut them down to size or pad them to be thicker (by stacking two pads on each side and an xacto knife).

[@vvanderer]

I agree on ksc &5 great sound BUT. Comfort must be related to anatomy. I had to stop using them because they hurt my ears after a few hours of wear if your anatomy fits, you win!

[@SuperReview]

Have you tried bending the clips to fit better?

[@plainseed]

there are also sennheiser px100ii, px200ii, grado i/e grado, akg k420 and yuin g2a at this price range. They are really good too. I think the best one sound wise is yuin g2a

[@d0nj03]

Where did you get the Yuins though? Last time I read about them they were near-impossible to find. (But also what was off-putting vs. the KSC was the info about way greater weight on the Yuins.)

[@VladQuake]

I'm surprised you haven't mentioned the "switch" on the portapros changing the clamping force

[@SuperReview]

It's too fiddly to be useful IMO.

[@BrentDubroc]

Do people actually care about how headphones look like? I mean seriously it blows me away that some people would rather go with shitty sounding headphones just because they're more "fashionable".

[@SuperReview]

You don't get out much, eh?

[@BrentDubroc]

@@SuperReview I don't see what that has to do with anything. I don't give a shit how fashionable a pair of headphones are if they sound like ass, and once I gifted all of my family and friends some mid-tier Sennheisers or AKGs they all felt the same way.

[@MrR3DP4ND4]

@@BrentDubroc You're assuming that headphones that look good sound like ass. If you had two pairs of equally good sound by every measure, and one looked good while the other looked like ass, you would clearly pick the one that looks better.

[@BrentDubroc]

@@MrR3DP4ND4 That's misleading as no two headphones are ever going to sound exactly alike, there's always going to be some sort of variance in the sound signature, sound reproduction, soundstage, etc. And so when it comes down to it I'll choose the headphones that sound the best for me for the music that I listen to, irregardless of what they look like or not.

[@MrR3DP4ND4]

​@@BrentDubroc Not really. You posed if people actually cared how headphones looked, so I gave you a hypothetical to show that yes, people care how headphones look. If there are two headphones and the only difference is the colorway, you're obviously going to pick the one that looks better.

[@gecko7167]

Loved this review!

[@cookie842]

I for one, like that fact Koss' look is stuck in the early 2000's

[@SuperReview]

It's got an appeal, for sure.

[@williamlee9103]

Really the ksc75 is the one with that style. The portapro has a decisively 80s look and the kph30i seems somewhere in the 90s.

[@fishylogic222]

You have cool high school teacher vibes.

[@Schmidteren]

you can just put the ksc75's on the porta pro's headband.

[@SuperReview]

Heck yeah.

[@thetreasonseason]

Is it possible to fit the kph drivers onto the porta pro's headband?

[@Schmidteren]

@@thetreasonseason Not as far as I know.

[@d112cons]

You might say, koss already did. All 3 use the same drivers.

[@Schmidteren]

@@d112cons The KSC75 sounds very different to the other two. Titanium coated .

[@rgl8109]

nice info about the sounds

[@fraudsarentfriends4717]

You want headphones that are a little bass heavy for portable players. Turning up the bass on your portable player will kill your batteries. Bass takes power to produce and a little portable player amplifier struggles to produce big sound on batteries. Having headphones that naturally produce some bass will give you big sound without eating the batteries up.

[@SuperReview]

So you're saying these are battery savers.

[@fraudsarentfriends4717]

@@SuperReview Well,,Now that I think about it a little more. There are many things that have changed and many variables. The old cassette Walkmans would have tone controls and mega bass buttons. I remember if i used them I would notice the batteries didn't last as long. I guess Not as big a deal today with rechargeable batteries. Many portables today don't have tone controls at all .So, You may only notice a difference in sound with them and not battery performance. It's difficult to compare with todays players. I have an older cd walkman with a single AA battery that lasts much longer than my mp3 walkman with a big internal lithium.I guess all the compression decoding takes a lot of battery power. But, I can recharge the mp3 walkman. It depends on the type of music you listen too. At the end of the day, it's bass that takes power to produce and smaller amplifiers that run on batteries can benefit from headphones that are a little heavy with bass to help them out. At least with sound and certain types of music.

[@mattmiller2761]

You can flip the little plastic switches on the Portapros to loosen the clamping force.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah it helps, but it's annoying that they reset themselves all the time. Just adds another step to the fitting process.

[@luigismilazzo]

I really appreciate your work. I have a little question. I love the design of pp but i love more the soud of ksc75. I've seen that you've swapped their drivers. Are the ksc drivers on pp headband better than the pp itself?

[@SuperReview]

I've found that the bigger difference is how close the driver is to your ear, rather than which driver it is. IMO, putting Yaxi pads on the Porta Pro improves the sound a lot by holding it further away from your ear. It's not quite KSC sound, but it's closer.

[@ADcrackerjack]

Great video man. One question, is it just me or the KSC75 requiere more volume compared to the Porta Pro? The voices sound crispier but I need to turn the volume like 20-30% up compared to the Porta Pros, maybe it’s the more open back? Or do headphones with more bass sound louder? Anyways, I’ve owned the Porta Pros for more than two years know and love them. About a month ago I got the KSC75 and they’re indeed impressive, the best way to describe them is as airy, the soundstage is notorious and the male voices pop out, you can hear your favorite music and hear details you didn’t know were there. For the price, they’re unbeatable. Thanks in advance man!

[@SuperReview]

I don't recall a significant volume difference between them but been a long time since I listened back to back. I wouldn't be surprised, though -- the KSCs get their airier sound by being physically further away from your ear.

[@ADcrackerjack]

@@SuperReview thanks for your response bro. Indeed, the open back may the reason why it sounds like that to me. I just need the KPH and this golden trio will be complete. I mostly use my Porta Pro for gaming but I own the ones without a mic, so getting the KPH sounds interesting to me, although I know the mic isn’t that good, but it’s something 😌.

[@SuperReview]

My use my KPH30i for Apex Legends, people say the mic sounds pretty decent 🤷‍♀️

[@ADcrackerjack]

@@SuperReview damn! That’s the only game I play online! Haha maybe we can rank sometime. I also used to play Warzone. Kudos.

[@Lovesun23ify]

I am a mids and highs kind of guy, going to get KSC 75 soon

[@BunnyslippersEUC]

Couldn't you just bend the Porta Pro outwards so the clamping will be less? Will the sound improve on these headphones if you use an amplifier? I miss these points in your review.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, you can bend almost any headphone to reduce or increase clamping pressure. IMO, these headphones don't need an amplifier, though an amp can still be fun to use with them.

[@drunkonkerosene]

The clamping is adjustable i three steps. At least on the ones l have.

[@doctoranthonyf]

Yes, FWIW, many people find the KSC75’s to be quite bright, artificially so, meaning they add to the treble/highs, what is not in the music. Listen to music through them with all tone controls/eq at neutral, then the same music through the same play equipment, but through quality home speakers and all settings unchanged. This comparison will likely reveal an important difference in that the speakers will very likely sound more natural, and much less cibilant and sharp. Then also, the 75’s seem to lack/subtract bass, bass that should be present. The Porta Pro’s, many consider (not all because it’s opinion, unless measuring) to have a better balance in music representation. That the highs are representative, rather than emphasized-as with the 75’s, Also the Porta Pro bass is full and foundational, it has proper authority. Thus it’s tremendous, and deserved exalted reputation, one the KSC75’s will never have. However, what are probably the best $15 headphones available, today? Likely the KFC75’s! They are a tremendous value! Enjoy!

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, these three headphones do a good job of covering a range of audio preference. For me, the KSC75s sound BY FAR the best of the three.

[@rsdno]

I have all three and even 2 pair of Yaxi it is great to review Koss as it is interesting the same driver can sound so different KSC 75 is #1 the 30i is #2 and Koss with Yaxi is great too I see no loser my Pro4AA kind of fell apart

[@SuperReview]

Nice ranking.

[@MrStubbs8157]

Isnt the ksc 75 different in bass and more mid to treble because it has the Titanium driver? 40, 30 and portapro has the normal drivers...hence the differences are a little different tuning...porta pros are generally dark throughout and 40s seem to have an elevated mid again? Also: K40 headband should fit as well but I dont know if they sell them as a spare part. K40, porta pro and ksc should all fit each others headbands...not sure about the 30s but should be as well.

[@blkmike1818]

the porta pros can be removed from the headset and clipped into the ksc 75 clips easily with a little pressure

[@nedelchohristov]

Dude - what mic do you use? The recording quality is epic!

[@SuperReview]

It's a simple Giant Squid lav mic into a Zoom H1. Glad it's working out 👍

[@esafaramarzian]

the way you should use the porta pros is you set it to max size put it on your head and press lightly from the side and boom no fuss it's a perfect fit no pulled hair. they should put that in the manual. and if you feel the pressure is too much you can flick the switch on the sides and man you've got yourself the comfiest headphones

[@SuperReview]

I ended up adding some gaffer tape to the headband to hold it at the right position for me, I like it.

[@DroidLocks6971]

Lime Green Electrical Tape For Color And For Keeping Porta Pro Permanently Adjusted

[@snowmean1]

I have PortaPro and KPH30i and I love them slightly modded for completely different reasons: - PortaPro with Yaxi pads have most of the brightness returned without sacrificing much on the bass department. Their portability makes them almost perfect headphones on the go, and Yaxi pads provide better sound and comfort, so must have for me. - KPH30i with Grado G-Pads are absolutely amazing for gaming because with that mod they provide almost 3D sound with amazing imaging and sound-stage. Easily the best gaming headphones bellow $100.

[@Arunnn241]

There's only 1 driver per cup. It's literally impossible to get real 3d sound on these, so not sure where you're getting 3d sound from...

[@snowmean1]

@Arunnn241 First of all, I used the word "almost". Secondly, please read about soundstage in headphones. You also have only 2 ears, think about it.

[@Jazzmusicstops]

do you think porta pros with yaxi pads and a tape mod on the headband beat kph30i overall?

[@SuperReview]

About on par.

[@andregm3288]

I heard Sporta Pro has the same drivers from Porta pro and you can unplug and plug them on KSC-75's clips. Damn i'm really enjoing the 75's but I'll have to check the Porta's bass...cause i like boom music.

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, I think the Porta Pro, Sporta Pro, and KSC35 all have the same speakers.

[@doctoranthonyf]

The drivers are not the same. They differ in construction materials.

[@SuperReview]

I suppose it depends on what level of parts + construction overlap you want before you consider it the same driver. There's certainly more similarities between them than there are differences.

[@artheen4713]

@@doctoranthonyf The sound between the Porta Pro and Sporta Pro is very different. The Sporta Pro has a more scooped sound, with more bass and treble at the same volume - they sound louder, but with less fidelity.

[@glgermain]

@@artheen4713 I think they are the same driver, but the sportapro has a solid back rather than an open back, which probably gives the "scooped" sound you're talking about. I drilled four big holes in the back plastic on the sportapros and they sound better (pop the drivers off before drilling). Some people drill out the front sound filters for a different sound. I don't know if that will make them better or worse!

[@dtlastraightahead2133]

KSC75's. Remove stock mold on wire ear clip. Replace with soft tubing. Not interested in sacrificing highs or clarity with 30i's.

[@Trqderr]

Hey! Great video. I have the rift S ordered and I heard the speaker audio on the vr headset isn't too great. Would you think something like this would be good for a replacement audio solution?

[@SuperReview]

I like using Koss headphones for gaming generally, but I haven't used them specifically with Oculus. Someone did once show me that someone 3D printed some mounts for Porta Pro drivers on Oculus, pretty cool.

[@Trqderr]

@@SuperReview Didn't expect a reply from a year old video haha. And yeah I was thinking about the bio mantis (the psvr headphones) but these seemed a lot better (and cheaper). Thanks!

[@kamorris1984]

@Jacob - if you haven't already made a decision, I use the KSC-75s with my Rift-S. Definitely better than the built-in speakers. If you find just wearing the headphones to not be comfortable enough, you can mod the rift in several ways to attach them to it. Be advised however if you go all the way and disassemble the Halo band to run the wires through, it's not as easy as some of the instructions make it out to be. Have a microdrive screwdriver on hand, a clean place to work, and a dish to set all the tiny screws in.

[@veegs23]

I own both the normal Koss porta Pro and the Massdrop Koss porta Pro X and I definitely reckon there's a difference - THe massdrop ones have more muted mid and treble and an enhanced bass, as well as being a little less efficient. I reckon the original koss porta pros would be more similar to the KSC75's

[@SuperReview]

For real? I have heard anyone else say they're different. (FWIW, I've only listened to the Massdrop version.l)

[@DGardn100]

@@SuperReview Interesting. I've had the Massdrop version of the KSC75, for a couple of days, and they don't sound much like what you describe in this video. They sound a lot more like Veggieburger's description of the Massdrop Portapros.

[@DroidLocks6971]

my humble take . . . ksc75 more subdued compared to kph30i and the kph40 is probably the best all aroumd performer of the 4 . the 4th being the porta pro has the hardest hitting bass especially with tha factory pads before i switched the porta pros to yaxi pads . you honestly cant go wrong with any of these but if id to give 1 away itd have to be the ksc75 . i did the ultra mod for the kph40 and it destroyed their excellent sound but its easy to undo this mod and this brought back the wonderful inpactful sound of my kph40

[@rica1157]

i am torn between kph40 and koss porta pro. i like to listen to music and watch movies for hours while getting little to no ear fatigue. the porta pro is $60 and the kph40 is $55, which is more worth it?

[@petervdveenmuis]

KSC75 with the Yuin G1/G2 headband is my set of choice. No mod, just a better headband does the job

[@SuperReview]

Seems the same?

[@petervdveenmuis]

@@SuperReview Yep the Parts Express headband.

[@leba4942]

you earned a new sub! Quality content!

[@SuperReview]

Thanks!

[@DroidLocks6971]

. . . BEFORE YOU BUY PORTA PRO LIMITED EDITION CONSIDER MY EXPERIENCE . . . I bought Porta pro Black / Silver And Really Like Their Pleasing Sound ,They Are A Keeper . Then I Get The Limited Addition Porta Pro Which Have 1. A Volume Slider On The Cord Which Is Totally Unnecessary . 2 . The Wires Are Super Thin And Cheap Which Makes No Sense When The Limited Edition Are $20.00 More Expensive . 3. The Sound Is Not The Same As The Normal $40 Porta Pros . I Did A B Tests For Hours And Bass Mids And Highs Are Less Impactful Vibrant And Strong On The Porta Pro Limited Edition . The Porta Pro Limited Edition Is A Total Disappointment And Will Be Returned ASAP .

[@alexanderjarvis9827]

I felt the same way you do about the KSC75, however you might want to try bending the earclips. There are tons of videos and posts online about it and how to do it. It can help the fit, and, because it fits better, bass gets a bit better and more present and the mids get just a tiniest bit more body.

[@SuperReview]

I don't mind the bass out of the KSCs, my only serious gripe is that they take longer to take off/put on than a standard headband.

[@Versatech17]

Hey i saw on the listing that the impedance of porta pros is 60 ohms. Would you recommend this for casual phone listening?

[@SuperReview]

Yeah, it should run fine off of most phones 👍

[@ADcrackerjack]

Bro, the Porta Pro sound super loud. They’re amazing. The KSC75 sound clearer.

[@wagonet]

your descriptions are spot on, that robocop comment on porta pros hilarious and awesome. i love porta pros, been using them daily for years at work. also your comment about the ksc75's taking time to put on and off, spot on. I got so annoyed at using them at work i just stuck w/ the porta pros.

[@SuperReview]

It's the little things.

[@antoinep9733]

KPH30i is back up on Massdrop for USD$19.99. I own (and love) both the KSC75X and PortaProX, so I’m tempted to hear what their younger brother sounds like at that price.

[@SuperReview]

I bought a second pair :P

[@antoinep9733]

Super* Review Damn you and your positive reviews, I guess I have no option now but to break out the credit card. 😂 BTW, I actually swapped my PortaProX and KSC75X drivers around and the sound signature improved on both. With the clamping pressure from the PP headband the 75s have a surprising amount of bass.

[@TDK2K]

the KSC75 and Kph30i have the titanium driver whereas the Portapro uses the regular original 60 ohm driver.

[@SuperReview]

I don't think KPH has titanium driver, FWIW.

[@nickers1618]

A bit late to ask but what are your recommended custom EQ for NW-A55 using KSC75? I have the headband of porta pro and YAXI pads, so the leak isn't an issue. I've been playing around with it, and I like using -1, +1, -3, -3, +3 and +6. This preset is oriented for vocals; I'm not a fan of too much of bass as it gives ear fatigue.

[@SuperReview]

FWIW, I don't use EQ with the KSC75.

[@invalidusername6809]

The ksc75s sound incredible for the price until the cable inevitably breaks

[@WatchMeSayStuff]

I plan to solder MMCX ports to mine. I just need to get my sister to 3D print the housing. I ordered the ports from China to cut cost, about a month ago, so I should have them in about a month, lmao.

[@d0nj03]

*evitably You take care of them, cable doesn't break. Used my first pair for 3 years without breaking anything, then got a new one just as a backup, found I liked the sound more (maybe dirt accumulated on the older driver) and started using those... and here we are, 3 more years on another pair, no cable breakage. You just take care of them - you don't wrap the wire around them in a circle, always bend it as little as possible when packing them, and of course you never grab them by the wire and let the drivers hang from it, always grab them by the drivers first. Don't know what else to say. You take care of them, they don't break.

[@cavebeastdemon3631]

I didn't see this in the comments but you can buy $7.00 headphones from Parts Express and pop the terrible drivers off and pop the KSC75s right onto them. I think this may give the best of both worlds for really cheap! I ordered the Parts Express ones and will see what happens?

[@SuperReview]

Lemme know if it works for me. The Parts Express is too small for my head 🙃

[@cavebeastdemon3631]

@@SuperReview - I got it and I have a large head they fit perfect and are much more convenient. It may have increased the bass slightly but still sound great. They feel even better than the hooks. Parts Express Mini Stereo Lightweight Headphones with 4 ft. Cord. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002KQZJS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@DibIrken]

I have the Porta Pros and the KSC75 and I agree the KSC75 is better sounding. You should try the Parts Express mod on the KSC75 if you don't like the clip on design. Also, you should try the Koss Sporta Pro. They say it sounds even better than the KSC75s but I don't own one so I dunno. :)

[@SuperReview]

Parts Express headband too smol for my big head 😭

[@DibIrken]

@@SuperReview oh. If that's the case, there is a Koss Porta Pro headband that is sold on Ali Express. It costs a bit more than the Parts Express headband but it should fit the KSC75 based on the reviews. a.aliexpress.com/_mLY21TZ

[@Lingatsu]

Nice review ! By the way do you think is there an alternative to the Koss Porta pro but with closed back? I wonder to buy it because I listening music in car, house, or noisy area. :/

[@SuperReview]

I suppose it depends on what aspect of the Porta Pro you're looking to get in a closed-back headphone.

[@Lingatsu]

Super* Review Thanks for your fast answer. It's for the sound quality and the lightweight. Because there is many positive reviews about the Porta pro ! I've currently a Sony MDR XB450. But I search something that is more compact with a good sound quality.

[@SuperReview]

I've heard really good things about the Creative Aurvana Live: amzn.to/2KzlBKS

[@Lingatsu]

Super* Review Thanks you, I'll gonna check and compare! ☺️

[@alfredoibarra9825]

You can buy better isolating ear pads.

[@nerdyneedsalife8315]

I'm not a fan of the KPH30i. Many like it's warm sound and I'm not a fan. I think my taste is in V-shaped, sparkly, and mid forward types of sound. My DT770 is slightly V-shaped, the Grados are sparkly, and I think the Tin T2 is mid-forward. I like all of these different flavors for sound. I am not a fan of warm from the KPH30i so I probably wouldn't be a fan of Porta Pro or Meze 99.

[@SuperReview]

You might prefer the Koss CL-10.

[@nerdyneedsalife8315]

@@SuperReview Are they more sparkly or V-shaped?

[@SuperReview]

Yes, the most V-shaped Koss.

[@zeon86]

PP have a comfortzone design, but that doesn't help a lot cause of PP's clamping force. I put 2 foam pads on kph30's headband, like PP, I can wear them longer now.

[@SuperReview]

I put some Yaxi pads on my Porta Pro, good improvement to comfort AND sound signature, IMO.

[@trxbloke]

You can adjust the ear pressure on the Porta Pro.

[@SuperReview]

ComfortZone 😎 Kinda awkward IMO, but yeah, it works.

[@trxbloke]

If you find the pressure setting you like (for me the mid position), put a bit of matchstick in the mech to stop it snapping back to the tightest setting. Then it will always be easy to get the perfect fit. You can also loosen the band curve a bit, though it will tighten back up if you fold to fit in the bag a lot.

[@einarbk885]

ksc75 has more detail and sharper treble than portapro`s

[@SuperReview]

More treble for sure.

[@jcwanako]

Thanks for your review!

[@SuperReview]

You're welcome ✌️

[@luisportela3500]

Have the 30i, the 75 and the 40s. The 30i with huge grado pads. For me the 40s are a bit bassier and the clamp tad too strong. The 75s need the clamp to be adjusted (remove the hook ply it and reassemble) so that you get the bass back. They'll sound just great that way. The 30i with the pad are in a different ball game. The whole frequency range is just great. They become spacious and beyond amazing. The 40s don't go well with the grado pads as they become too shouty imho. Like them a lot though but not as much as the 30i with the pads. Btw kept the original foams just put the grado pads on top.

[@Callatis]

Porta Pro, Samson SR850, Superlux HD 681 or AKG 240? Which one has better sounding?

[@dtlastraightahead2133]

Good review

[@SuperReview]

Thanks mang.

[@Schmidteren]

Can I take them off and put them on the KSC75 shell? I know you can do the opposite, so this should also work, right? I love not having a headband. :)

[@SuperReview]

Yes, it works. Koss also sells the KSC35 which is basically Porta Pro speakers on clips

[@mdd47]

Looking at KPH30 since my beloved Senn PX-100 was discontinued (I will continue to be angry/bitter about that for some time, LOL) but the KPH30 look like a solid replacement.

[@SuperReview]

If you get them, let me know how they compare to the Sennheisers. I was really curious to try the PX-100 but haven't yet.

[@freezak3864]

For someone who likes the HD598 sound signature which one of the following would be better, Porta Pro or KSC75?

[@rsdno]

I care most about how they sound but it adds value (or takes awAy) of how it looks but love them for how they sound ,appreciate in depth review Thank You

[@fourcakers]

What would you recommend for a court reporter listening to depositions? I also wear hearing aids, so I can't wear anything over my ears.

[@SuperReview]

Is Bluetooth an option?

[@putinstea]

You say you listen to your walkman. Do you put casettes in it, or does it play mp3?

[@SuperReview]

MP3 and FLAC files 😎

[@chowdhurytanvirahmedritu1670]

which one has better soundstage and imaging and will be good for gaming in your opinion, portapros or kph30i ?

[@SuperReview]

KSC75 :P Or Porta Pros with Yaxi pads.

[@KaizerPalpatine]

does the inline mic bother you for example does it tend to drag down etc. ?

[@SuperReview]

Nope, frankly I don't notice it.

[@franzb69]

put on orange foam pads on those and they will look like star lord headphones

[@SuperReview]

I... actually have orange foam pads on mine now. instagram.com/p/BsuTKzZgPGw/

[@khalil7011]

@@SuperReview Which brand of pads are those? Very nice looking by the way.

[@alfredthebigasshousespider9650]

@@khalil7011 yaxi pads for porta pro :)