Наушники — Koss SB45 USB

The SB45 USB is a full-size communication headset from Koss, the Milwaukee company that has built stereophones since John C. Koss made the SP/3 in 1958. It takes the design of the analogue SB45, which Koss still lists with the same stereophone figures, and fits it with a USB plug that goes straight into a computer. Koss sells it at USD 54.99 with the Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers all of its wired headphones, and at least one red colour option has been offered. Koss groups it with the SB40 and SB49 in its line of communication headsets, and it describes these models as built for high sensitivity with reduced distortion at every volume level.

Key specs that matter

Koss rates the earphone section from 18 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Headset impedance is 100 ohms and sensitivity is 103 dB SPL, and the dynamic drivers use ferrite magnets. The cable is straight, enters on one side only and runs to 2.4 m. The binaural earpieces hang from an over-the-head band, the ear coupling is circumaural, the cushions are covered in leatherette, and the headset weighs 250 g. PC is the stated compatibility.

Engineering and use context

A boom-mounted electret microphone handles hands-free voice. It uses the Koss Clear Voice Technology noise-reduction principle, which the maker says strips out excessive background noise so that speech recognition and other PC voice software work more easily. An in-line volume control on the cord lets the wearer change level without reaching for the computer. The leatherette cushions are there for comfort and for passive isolation from the surrounding room. When not in use, the SB45 USB collapses into a compact shape for storage or carrying in a bag. The single-entry lead is attached to one cup only and is not listed as detachable. Koss does not publish a microphone frequency range or sensitivity for this USB version.

Pairing

The USB connection means the computer sees the headset as its own audio device, so no motherboard headphone jack or separate microphone socket is needed. The long lead gives reach to a tower under a desk, and the model suits offices, call work, gaming and online meetings where a sealed over-ear headset is wanted.

Alternatives

The Koss SB42 USB is the other USB-A headset in the same range, adding a detachable cord that plugs into either cup and a pass-through output on the opposite side.