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.
All
Porta Pro® Utility
reviews
[{"title":"Koss Porta Pro Utility : The legend returns","link":"https://stopusinggoogle.com/technology/koss-porta-pro-utility-review-the-legend-returns","source":"stopusinggoogle.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency Response: 15-25,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 101 dB SPL
- Impedance: 60 Ohms
- Cable Length: 4 ft / 1.2 m
Description
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.
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.
Select products
Select product comparisons
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.
See All Products
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.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
.
Brand Page
What if you spend more?
.png){kind=small}
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.
Expand Details
.svg)
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.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=small}
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
- Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
- Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
- A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
- Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices
Product Considerations
- The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
- Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
- With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
- There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
- Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
- Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
- Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response
Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Product Page
Product Page
Neumann
NDH 30
649
649
/
11
Reviews
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
- Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
- Designed for reference listening
- Clean, linear, and very detailed mids
Product Considerations
- Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
- Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
- Lacks impact and bite
- Headband padding is uncomfortable
- Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
- Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30
Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Sennheiser
HD 560S
279
/
Released
2020
With linear acoustics tailored to extended listening sessions and smooth, gratifying bass performance, the HD 560S was crafted for the analytical audio enthusiast.
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The HD 560S delivers a flat sound profile that should suit most musical genres
- Very comfortable, with a relatively lightweight design and plenty of plush padding
- Soundstage is exemplary
- Lightweight and provide a nimble feel
- Excels in delivering both vocals and instruments with a remarkable level of clarity and precision
Product Considerations
- Some users might find it a bit dull over time due to its conservative sound signature
- Can be a bit intense at times in the lower treble
- The plastic construction does not scream luxury
- Some loss of texture in the mid-bass, with bass notes of different instruments often sounding the same
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AKG K702: 560S' sound is going to feel a bit closer, but it may not always be a good thing when trying to hear what is farther off in the distance, for gaming
- Vs Sennheiser HD58X: The 560S is cleaner and more accurate sounding than the HD58X
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: The 560S is more intimate and livelier sounding than the darker HD600
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: Compared to the more expensive Hifiman Sundara, the 560S sounds like it lacks detail across the frequency spectrum, except in the sub bass region where the Sundara does not seem to dig as deep
Takeaway: The Sennheiser HD560S is a comfortable headphone with a well-balanced sound, making it a solid choice for both gamers and music enthusiasts looking for neutrality and clarity. It is a versatile headphone for various genres and applications.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Ananda Nano
369
/
Released
2023
Ananda Nano now brings the acclaimed Ananda sound in a more compact, lightweight package while delivering high-resolution planar-magnetic performance.
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent resolution and imaging capabilities
- Features a nanometer thickness diaphragm and Stealth Magnet design that improves transient response and lowers harmonic distortion
- Easy to drive, it is among the most efficient open-back planar magnetic headphones on the market right now
- Features a tight, textured, and clean bass response
- Good detail retrieval and vocal clarity
Product Considerations
- Treble might be too much for some listeners
- May not be the most lively in macro-dynamics
- Reviewers note a slightly dry timbre
- Lean, slightly cold mid-range
- The included 3-meter cable is not useful for desktop use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Similar to the Meze 109, but a planar
- Sounded a little bit more hifi than the Austrian Audio Hi-X 65
- Has a more warm, natural feel than the original Ananda
- Easiest to drive when compared to the Edition XS
- Superior in technical performance when compared to the Hifiman Sundara
Takeaway: The Ananda Nano is a well-tuned headphone with superior resolution and marvelous timbre, particularly good for electronic music and those who care about vocal clarity. It's a planar alternative that’s incredibly fast and detailed, with excellent imaging and soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Phoenix
299
/
Released
2020
32Ω low impedance, easy to drive. With just a good audio source paired with a regular phone and computer, you can fully unleash the sound quality effects. Using a professional player makes it even more complementary and adds icing on the cake.
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Beautifully made with real wooden cups, nice metallic flourishes, and a nice adjustment system
- Very easy to drive from any device due to its 32 ohm impedance and 103 dB sensitivity
- The included hard case is of good quality and protective
- Comfortable to wear for extended sessions due to its light weight (296g) and well-designed headband
- Good soundstage width and overall space, with well-defined instrument separation
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers with larger ears may find the earcups to be too small, causing discomfort
- Lack of extra treble detail and energy means that some percussion misses its snap and shimmer
- The headband size is pretty small, so if your head is on the large side, it might not fit
- Stock earpads are too shallow for some users, causing their ears to touch the inside of the cups
- The midrange can sound stuffy and veiled, lacking clarity and detail compared to some competitors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Monolith M1060 V2: The Phoenix has better quality treble, but the M1060 has a better quantity of treble and a more neutral sound
- Vs Sennheiser HD560S: The HD560S is a reference headphone designed to be analytical and neutral, while the Phoenix is colored, engaging, rich, and warm
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: The Phoenix is warmer, has deeper sub-bass extension, and a wider soundstage, but the HD600 is more intimate, clear, and detailed in the mids and vocals
- Vs beyerdynamic DT880: The DT880 has a midbass bump and clearer mids, while the Phoenix has better treble extension
- Vs HarmonicDyne Zeus: The Zeus is a warmer set, but the Phoenix is better implemented
- Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X55: The Phoenix has a more environmental feel when it comes to its sub-bass response and a wider soundstage, but the Hi-X55 has a sweeter vocal presentation
Takeaway: The Phoenix offers a warm, rich, and punchy sound signature in a beautifully designed and comfortable package that is easy to drive. It could be a great option for those who enjoy a bass-emphasized sound and listen to genres where extra bass is beneficial.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Anser
199
/
Released
2024
High-quality wooden HiFi dynamic driver headphones with open-back design. Features self-developed 50mm dynamic drivers delivering full bass, wide soundstage, and clean natural sound.
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Anser is wonderfully comfortable.
- Exceptional build quality, with premium materials rarely seen at this price point.
- It delivers a sound that's well-balanced across all frequencies.
- The Anser is easy to drive from absolutely anything.
- It has a nice sense of weight and presence in its sound, particularly in vocals and solo instrumentals.
Product Considerations
- The soundstage is somewhat restricted in width.
- The midrange is not great.
- The stock cable is a little stiff.
- Treble enthusiasts may occasionally find the presentation less energetic.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD 560s: The Anser is significantly more comfortable and feels better built than the HD 560s, but the HD 560s is a little brighter and sharper in the treble.
- Vs Drop and Sennheiser HD 6XX: The Anser would win for most people on build quality and possibly comfort too, and is going to win for bass because extends down deep, and it's solid and full.
- Vs Philips Fidelio X2HR: The X2HR has a wider, more open soundstage, and a little more nuance in the midrange.
- Vs Sivga Oriole: The Anser has slight advantages, such as soundstage, which is still limited but nevertheless better than the Oriole.
- Vs FiiO FT1 Pro: The Anser has a slightly warmer sound signature, with a more pronounced bass response.
Takeaway: The Sivga Anser offers great build quality and is very comfortable, making it a great choice for people who want a fun and engaging listening experience. This is a headphone that prioritizes musicality over technical prowess, offering an inviting sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Luan
299
/
Released
2023
The Luan is a high-fidelity wired headphone featuring wooden ear cups and dynamic drivers. It delivers high-resolution sound with deep bass, soft and full midrange, clear detail separation, and refined, non-fatiguing treble.
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, using premium materials like metal headbands and yokes, wood cups, and soft leather or velvet for comfort
- Comfortable, with plush ear pads and a lightweight design, making it suitable for long listening sessions
- Easy to drive and scales well with better gear
- The sound signature has a good balance of detail, musicality, and accurate tonality, making it a versatile option
- Clarity and separation of instruments with a good soundstage and decent imaging
Product Considerations
- The included cable is of lesser quality compared to the build, noting its stiffness and memory effect
- The bass response may not satisfy bassheads as it rolls off slightly in the sub-bass region
- The treble and upper mids can be a bit forward or 'shouty', potentially causing listening fatigue for treble-sensitive individuals
- The symmetrical design can make it difficult to quickly discern the left and right sides
- The included case is not aesthetically pleasing to all reviewers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD 600: The Luan has better bass and a larger soundstage, but the HD 600 is slightly better in tone and timbre
- Vs Sivga Robin: The Luan has a different sound and build quality than the Robin, which is more aggressive
- Vs beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The mids have better details on the DT900 Pro X
Takeaway: The Sivga Luan is a well-built and comfortable headphone with a balanced sound, making it a great choice for extended listening and versatile across different sources. It is a stylish, easy-to-drive headphone with enough punch and clarity to appeal to a wide range of listeners.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Product Page
Product Page
Questions? Ask the brand's dealers.
All Dealers
How to buy
Headphones
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
.png)
.png)
