Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
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ModRetro x Koss Porta
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency Response: 15-25,000 Hz
- Impedance: 60 ohms
- Sensitivity: 101 dB SPL/1mW
- Cable: Straight, Dual Entry, 4ft standard 3.5mm
Description
The acclaimed Koss Porta Pro® has captivated audiophiles and music enthusiasts for decades and continues to be one of the most popular headphones worldwide. Originally introduced in 1984, the Koss Porta Pro® has stood the test of time due to its impressive performance and portability.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Koss is known for electrostatic headphones and complete systems, including dedicated energizer/amplifiers, at a comparatively affordable price.
- The brand balances the retro aesthetic of classic designs with modern features such as wireless connectivity and detachable cables.
- The brand fosters a community around its products, evident in collaborations with companies such as Drop, and is receptive to community feedback in design and development.
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Porta Pro
- Positioning: The entry-level design focused on portability and everyday use.
- Description: Features updated aesthetics with inline controls and a comfortable build that suit small-room or on-the-go listening. Compared to the mid-range and electrostatic models, it offers a simpler sound signature and basic functionality without high-end tuning.
PRO/4AA
- Positioning: A mid-range option aimed at users looking for robust, everyday performance.
- Description: Delivers clear sound and reliable build quality that make it suitable for studio work and extended listening sessions. When compared to the entry-level Porta Pro and more premium electrostatic products, it provides improved audio clarity and durability with a modest step up in cost.
QZ99
- Positioning: A balanced mid-range model designed for everyday versatility.
- Description: Introduces modern design elements and enhanced comfort to fit both home and travel use with stable sound performance. In comparison to the PRO/4AA and Porta Pro, it emphasizes design refinement and user experience, though it does not offer the advanced technology of the electrostatic series.
ESP950
- Positioning: A high-end electrostatic system aimed at detailed and precise sound reproduction.
- Description: Uses electrostatic driver technology to deliver clear, crisp audio with a spacious soundstage suitable for controlled listening environments. Compared to non-electrostatic models like the QZ99 and PRO/4AA, it stands out with higher sonic precision while remaining a step below the flagship model in overall refinement.
ESP95X-plus
- Positioning: The flagship model featuring premium electrostatic technology and superior build quality.
- Description: Refines electrostatic design with enhanced tuning and high-quality materials for exceptional clarity and performance. When contrasted with the ESP950 and other lower-tier models, it offers the most advanced features and detailed sound response.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
1
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
595
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
8
Founding Year
1953
Our take on the brand
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
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What if you spend more?
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Koss
ESP/95X Plus
799
799
/
5
Reviews
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Relatively affordable entry point into electrostatic headphones
- Clean, non-fatiguing sound, good treble resolution, and fast drivers for great instrument separation
- Lightweight and comfortable for prolonged listening sessions
- Comes with its own electrostatic amplifier, making it an all-in-one purchase
Product Considerations
- Build quality is questionable, feels plasticky, and prone to creaking
- Lacks impact, weight, and dynamics compared to dynamic headphones
- Midrange tonality/timbre can be slightly off, with a slightly thin-sounding lower midrange
- Proprietary connector limits amp rolling options
- Soundstage can be narrow
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Stax Lambda Series: ESP/95X presents music in a convincing and realistic manner
- Vs Sennheiser HD600/HD650/HD6XX: ESP/95X has better extension and speed in the bass, but the HD600 series offers more natural sound
Takeaway: The ESP/95X is a good way to try out electrostatic headphones because it comes with everything needed. It is a comfortable and non-fatiguing listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
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Bowers & Wilkins
Px8
699
699
/
64
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Product Strengths
- Premium build quality and materials with luxurious Nappa leather detailing and a cast aluminum yoke
- Comfortable for long listening sessions with soft earcups and a headband that provides even pressure distribution
- Excellent sound quality with 40mm carbon cone drivers delivering ultra-fast response, low distortion, and a clean, smooth sound signature
- Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces low-frequency sounds and midrange chatter, with the Nappa leather providing a tighter seal
- Realistic soundstage scale with tight, well-defined imaging, with the sound feeling more live and in front of the listener
Product Considerations
- Multipoint pairing is not always seamless, and there might be occasional wind noise from the earcup due to software glitches, with wear detection being inconsistent and inaccurate
- Limited app customization with only bass and treble adjustments, lacking a fully customizable EQ
- Microphone pickup is good in quiet environments, but can be affected by heavy noise gating in noisy conditions, causing voice fade-in/out
- Some emphasis on bass response, which may not appeal to everyone
- There is concern about the Nappa leather being easily scratched
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the PX7 S2, the PX8 offers better sound quality with greater instrument separation and realism due to the carbon fiber drivers, and also features more premium materials
- While the PX8 active noise cancelling does well, Sony still has better mic pickup
- The PX8 provides a good alternative to the Airpods Max
- The PX8 stacks up among some of the best wireless headphones along with the Focal Bathys
Takeaway: The Px8 is a premium wireless headphone with outstanding build quality and sound performance, which is perfect for audiophiles seeking a luxurious listening experience. It combines comfort, effective noise cancellation, and detailed audio reproduction, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing sound quality and high-end materials.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Mark Levinson
№ 5909
999
999
/
36
Reviews
Lose yourself in your music with the first-ever headphones from Mark Levinson, a pioneer in high-fidelity audio for the past 50 years. Reference-quality sound meets luxurious comfort in a lightweight and durable set of headphones featuring Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that’s perfect for travel. Reveal the hidden details in your music – at home, on the go, or anywhere you find a moment to listen.
Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced and refined signature, detailed mids, and smooth treble
- Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) and ambient aware mode
- Premium build quality with high-quality materials such as leather, anodized aluminum, and metallic paint
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft leather ear cushions and a well-designed headband
- Comprehensive codec support (LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC) for high-resolution wireless audio
Product Considerations
- High price point, making them inaccessible for many consumers
- App is lacking in some features, such as fully customizable EQ and customizable ANC modes
- On-cup controls are described as basic and not very intuitive to use
- Some reviewers feel the design does not fully convey a sense of luxury for the price
- Occasional reports of issues with the 'on-head detection' feature—causing connection problems
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Bathys: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers a cleaner and more natural tonality with a smoother, more consistent, and detailed treble response than the Focal Bathys
- Vs Apple AirPods Max: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers better sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies, and is more comfortable than the AirPods Max
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The Mark Levinson 5909 measures better in audio quality
Takeaway: The Mark Levinson № 5909 headphones offer excellent sound, comfort, and noise cancellation, making them a top-tier choice for those seeking a premium listening experience. With their high-end sound quality and comprehensive feature set, these headphones are a great option for audiophiles wanting the best wireless experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
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Product Strengths
- Unique octagonal design made of quality materials, with a rugged, serviceable build quality featuring exposed nuts and bolts.
- Surprising amount of bass for an open-back, on-ear headphone, that is solid, tangible, present, well balanced and well tuned.
- The silver-plated OCC copper cable is lightweight, pliable, ergonomic and does not remain bent after staying still.
- Comfortable on-ear headphone, especially considering it's an on-ear design, with thick, soft pads and a comfortable headband.
- Easy to drive with portable devices like dongles or smartphones.
Product Considerations
- Being an on-ear design, the Thalia can become uncomfortable after extended listening sessions (45 minutes or longer) due to pressure on the ears.
- Not the most compact headphone, and does not fold up, limiting its portability somewhat.
- The open-back design results in sound leakage, making it less suitable for noisy environments or situations where discretion is required.
- The height adjustment mechanism, while providing fine control, is a bit fiddly and not easily adjustable on the fly.
- Its lower-midrange will be too full for some.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Thalia is far superior to the Koss Porta Pro and sets a new standard for portable on-ear headphones, but it is inspired by the Porta Pro.
- Compared to the Grado RS2x, the Thalia is more durable, comfortable, and more enjoyable overall, and is more bassy and thicker in the midrange.
- The Thalia has a faster pace and a better driver control, and offers a lot more in the top-octave than the Sennheiser Momentum 2/3.
Takeaway: The Thalia is a uniquely designed, portable on-ear headphone that delivers great sound and is built to last. It is a good option for those who want a distinctive headphone that is fun to listen to.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Erzetich is a Slovenian hifi brand known for amplifiers and headphones that incorporate aged linden wood (a national symbol), vegan construction, and fully serviceable designs with pro-style connectors. They also engineer amplifiers with dual-mono class-A topology.
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What competes at this price?
Koss
KEB90 Utility
69
/
Released
2021
The Koss KEB90 Utility In-Ear Headphone is part of the Koss Utility Series, an all-new listening experience that features three new headphones, three new cords and one seamless experience where everything works together. No batteries, no audio compromises, no compatibility issues. It's that simple.
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Product Page
Product Page
Koss
Porta Pro® Utility
49
/
Released
2021
The Koss Porta Pro® Utility On-Ear Headphone is part of the Koss Utility Series, an all-new listening experience that features three new headphones, three new cords and one seamless experience where everything works together. No batteries, no audio compromises, no compatibility issues. It's that simple.
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Product Page
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Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2
399
/
Released
2022
Px7 S2's custom-designed 40mm drive units and 24-bit-capable wireless platform combine for a truly immersive listening experience that allows you to hear more of what the artist wants you to hear.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-end design with premium materials (cloth and aluminum construction, aluminum accent rings, soft faux leather, stitch-free Nappa leather) gives a luxury vehicle feel and understated style
- Comfortable for longer periods thanks to the redesigned form and shape, upgraded pressure-relieving memory foam, oblong earcups for better pressure distribution, and ample room inside the earcups
- Superior sound quality is due to the revised custom 40mm Bowers & Wilkins driver with lower distortion biocellulose diaphragm and 20mm voice coil, carefully positioned and angled inside the earcups
- Integration with the Bowers & Wilkins Music app allows customization of noise canceling levels, ambient pass-through, and EQ tone control
- Improved clarity of voice on phone calls is due to the redesigned microphone pattern
- USB-C socket is the sole input option, though adapters are included
Product Considerations
- Some users may find the wear detection feature too sensitive
- The app offers fewer features than some other headphone apps
- The included cables are somewhat short
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the previous PX7, the S2 has a completely different design, is smaller and easier to carry, and has significant technical improvements
- The PX7 S2 offers a more balanced sound than mainstream offerings by Sony or Bose, which tend to exaggerate mid-bass
- The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 stood out with a more distinguished appearance, a next-level build with nicer tactility, and sound quality is a toss-up—dependent on listening preference
Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones offer a great listening experience with excellent sound quality, beautiful design, and a comfortable fit. They are a solid choice for anyone who wants an upgrade over basic headphones and cares about both style and sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Bowers & Wilkins
Pi7 S2
259
/
Released
2023
What does it take to create category-defining True Wireless earbuds? High-resolution sound and crystal-clear voice calls, an industry-first wireless audio retransmission case, plus a choice of three elegant colors.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality with clarity and detail
- The charging case doubles as a wireless transmitter, connecting to non-Bluetooth devices via USB or 3.5mm jack
- Improved Bluetooth connectivity and an extended range of up to 25 meters compared to the original PI7
- Premium design and comfortable to wear for longer durations
- Excellent bass response
Product Considerations
- The B&W app lacks EQ customization options
- Transparency mode has noticeable hiss and is not easily accessible via the earbuds, requiring the app to activate
- Noise cancellation is good, but not class-leading compared to some competitors
- Some reviewers find them bulky and not very comfortable for prolonged use
- No multi-point pairing
Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 is a great choice for those who prioritize exceptional sound quality and appreciate the unique wireless transmitter feature. It provides an immersive and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2e
399
/
Released
2023
Px7 S2e is the latest iteration of our highly successful entry-level wireless headphones. The 'e' stands for 'evolved', as the Px7 S2e takes inspiration and learnings from our flagship Px8 wireless headphones, together with a re-tuned acoustic performance, to deliver the very best sound in its class.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Superior sound separation compared to older models, noticeable even to non-audiophiles
- The mobile app enhances usability by allowing users to adjust bass, treble, and noise reduction levels
- Comfortable fit with ample cushioning and a design that's comfortable to wear around the neck
- Premium build quality with attention to detail in design, materials, and hinge smoothness
- The sound is balanced, with distinct highs and bass that booms without overpowering the mix
Product Considerations
- Noise cancellation does not quite match up to Sony, with a small gap forming depending on head position
- Volume up and down buttons take time getting used to, with accidental pausing occurring
- The touch-sensitive earcup feature for pass-through audio from Sony is missed
- Lacks an adapter for airplane screens
- Some reviewers found the earcup size a bit awkward
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM3: Px7 S2e offers superior sound separation
- Vs Apple AirPods Max: PX7 S2e is closer to the sound quality of the AirPods Max than the Beats Studio Pro, but the AirPods Max is heavier and less comfortable for long-term use
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM5: Px7 S2e has better sound quality, though the Sony has better ANC
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8: Px7 S2e is very close in sound quality for a much better price
- Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Px7 S2e has better midrange magic for music
- Vs Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra: Px7 S2e balances ANC and music playback better
Takeaway: The Px7 S2e headphones are a premium product that balances sound quality, comfort, and build. Great sound and a luxurious feel could make these headphones a perfect fit.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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