The Koss KPH30 Wireless headphones represent a significant leap forward in affordable audiophile-grade sound. This review delves into the performance and value proposition of these budget-friendly wireless cans, comparing them to Koss's celebrated history and other models within their lineup, including the iconic Porta Pro and the highly-regarded KPH40. We explore whether the KPH30 Wireless successfully balances its impressive sound quality with the comfort and build expected from a modern wireless headphone. The review examines both the strengths and weaknesses, offering insights into the user experience and providing recommendations for maximizing comfort and performance.From the reviewer's personal history with Koss products, spanning decades and various models, this review offers a unique perspective on the KPH30 Wireless' place within the Koss legacy. We'll assess its performance against its wired predecessors, highlighting improvements and addressing shortcomings. Ultimately, the review aims to determine if the KPH30 Wireless truly delivers "affordable audiophile bliss," considering its sound quality, battery life, comfort, and overall value for the price.
Pros And Cons
- Affordable ($60)
- Surprisingly good sound quality
- Excellent battery life (lasts for days)
- Robust build quality compared to previous KPH30 models
- Good microphone quality for phone calls
- Includes analog passthrough
- Initially uncomfortable due to tight clamp and thin pads
- Pads are not compatible with previous KPH30 pad mods
- Articulating cups
- Easily available upgraded pads
- Thicker wire
- 2.5mm jack for balanced output
- Metal headband
- Sliders can break
- Convenient due to wireless design
- Expensive ($89)
- Sound quality not superior to the original wired Porta Pro
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A History with Koss Headphones
My journey with Koss began with my father's old Koss headphones, a bulky pair with incredibly uncomfortable pads and a coiled cable. Despite their discomfort, I used them extensively, connecting them to a Roland MC30C groove box to create soundscapes. This early experience instilled a deep appreciation for the brand, even before I became an audiophile.
Years later, the Koss Porta Pro emerged as a staple. While the original model lacked the comfort of newer designs, its iconic sound quality remained unparalleled. Even today, Koss continues to produce Porta Pro variations, showcasing its enduring legacy in the audio world.
The cheaper wired Koss headphones gained popularity for their affordability, but I often found their pads to be inadequate. The KPH30, although well-regarded for their sound, suffered from build quality issues, causing disappointment for many users. Its poorly designed ear pads and flimsy wire became its major downfall.
The Rise of the KPH30 and KPH40
The Koss KPH30's sound quality was often praised despite the poor build quality, leading many to modify them with better pads. This modification, typically involving Grado pads, enhanced both comfort and sound significantly.
The Koss KPH40 arrived as a major upgrade. With articulating earcups, readily available better pads, and an improved cable, it addressed many shortcomings of its predecessor. The KPH40 became a fan favorite due to its superior comfort and sound quality, which scaled remarkably well with high-end equipment. Its detachable cable was a welcome addition.
The KPH40's balanced sound and versatility made it a standout headphone, and it remains one of my top five all-time favorites. Despite minor issues like the still-prone-to-breaking headband sliders, its overall performance more than compensated for the minor flaws.
Koss KPH30 Wireless: A Game Changer?
The Koss KPH30 Wireless, released at $60, is surprisingly affordable compared to its predecessors and other wireless headphones. This low price point significantly enhances its appeal to a broader audience.
Despite its low cost, the KPH30 Wireless maintains Koss' impressive sound quality. It's remarkably louder than the Porta Pro Wireless and scales impressively with high-end equipment. The battery life is exceptional, lasting for days on a single charge.
However, the initial comfort is less impressive than the KPH40, due to thinner earpads and a high clamp force. The reviewer recommends some modification, such as heat-molding, to improve its comfort level. The included short USB cable and lack of a 3.5mm cable are minor drawbacks.
Comparison and Conclusion
The Koss KPH30 Wireless offers a compelling blend of affordability, sound quality, and convenience. While its initial comfort requires some tweaking, the exceptional sound reproduction and long battery life outweigh the minor flaws. The KPH40, while comfortable out of the box, still lacks the wireless feature offered by this newer model.
Compared to the Porta Pro Wireless, the KPH30 Wireless provides a superior audio experience at a significantly lower price point. The convenience of wireless listening is a major plus, making it a great option for casual and discerning listeners alike. For those who want even better comfort and don't need wireless capabilities, the KPH40 is a still an excellent choice.
Overall, the Koss KPH30 Wireless is a game-changer. It delivers exceptional audiophile-level sound and long battery life at a remarkably affordable price. While requiring some minor adjustments for comfort, its pros far outweigh the cons, making it a highly recommended purchase for anyone seeking a versatile and impressive wireless headphone.
