Наушники — Koss SB42 USB

The SB42 USB is a full-size headset for voice and listening from Koss, the Milwaukee firm whose founder John C. Koss created the SP/3 stereophone in 1958. It is the computer-oriented version of the SB42, swapping that model's analogue plugs for a single USB-A connection, and Koss lists it among its communication headsets for work from home and gaming. The price on the Koss site is USD 59.99, and like every wired Koss headphone it carries the Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Key specs that matter

The stereophone section is specified from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The impedance and sensitivity lines of the official specification table are marked N/A, so the company publishes no load or efficiency figure for this version. The lead is 2.4 m long, detaches from the headset and carries a boom microphone built into the cord itself. Closed ear cushions surround the ear, and the weight is about 272 g. Country of origin is China.

Engineering and use context

The microphone uses Koss Clear Voice Technology, or CVT, a noise-reduction design meant to cut excessive background noise, and Koss states that this makes PC voice applications such as speech recognition easier to use. The cord has dual-choice entry - it can be plugged into either ear-cup, so the user decides which side the boom sits on. Once the cable is attached, the socket on the opposite cup turns into an output, which allows pass-through listening or daisy chaining a second headset for extended monitoring. The ear-cups follow the D-profile shape that first appeared on the Koss Pro4AAA; the outline mimics the ear so that the cushion forms a consistent seal, and Koss designed the fit for wear over long periods. The sealed cushions also keep outside noise out and stop the programme from leaking to people nearby. For storage or travel the headset folds flat.

Pairing

A USB-A socket on a desktop or laptop is the natural host, since the headset takes its signal digitally and does not rely on the computer's analogue headphone jack. Koss notes that the SB42 reaches high volume even from low-voltage devices. The long lead reaches a tower placed under a desk, and the pass-through socket lets a trainer or supervisor listen in on the same feed.

Alternatives

The Koss SB45 USB is another full-size USB communication headset from the brand, rated at 18 Hz to 20,000 Hz with a published 100 ohm impedance and a collapsible frame.