Koss The Plug
Manufacturer: Koss Corp. Part number: THEPLUG
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- Koss's The Plug earbuds have a firm-fitting, earplug-like design, but they sometimes feel a little too invasive.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unbeatablesale.com | Not yet rated | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/08/2009 |
CNET editors' review
Koss The Plug price range: $27.29
- Reviewed by: Nathaniel Wilkins
- Edited by: David Carnoy
- Reviewed on: 12/15/2004
The good: Lightweight and compact design; comparatively secure fit; supplied with multiple sets of earpiece covers; gold-plated miniplug.
The bad: Plastic in-ear tubes sometimes uncomfortable; tangle-prone, dual-entry cord; doesn't include carrying case.
The bottom line: Koss's The Plug earbuds have a firm-fitting, earplug-like design, but they sometimes feel a little too invasive.
Koss' s blue-and-gray The Plug ($14.99 list) earbud headphones incorporate squishy foam-rubber earpieces that form to your ear canals like earplugs. In addition to providing a snug fit, The Plug's unique earpieces help block out background noise and contribute to better-than-average bass response. Unfortunately, The Plug's earpieces aren't always comfortable.
Aside from its unique design, The Plug doesn't have many standout features. Although the 'phones have a tangle-prone, dual-sided cord (one cord is attached to each earpiece), Koss doesn't supply a carrying case. The Plug does include four sets of various-size foam earpieces that can be interchanged to facilitate a snug fit in virtually any pair of ears. The hollow, hard plastic sound tubes in the center of the squishy earpieces tended to unpleasantly scratch our ear canals whenever we put on or adjusted The Plug.
The Plug's 4-foot cord is long enough to comfortably connect with a portable audio player, but it's short enough not to cause much tugging during workout sessions. We took The Plug for a 30-minute treadmill run and were pleasantly surprised by the results. Only once during our jaunt did The Plug pop out of our ears. In comparison, it's almost impossible to run with standard, loose-fitting earbuds such as Sony's MDR-E827Gs ($19.99 list).
A highly efficient (112 dB) headphone set, The Plug had no problem playing loud even when connected to our underpowered portable MP3 player. Tracks such as Paul Oakenfold's "Essential Mix at Home in Ibiza" sounded smooth and were free of the overblown treble and brash midrange exhibited by many competing earbuds. Bass response was comparatively tight and punchy.
Overall, The Plug sounds better than most 'phones in the same low price range. What's more, The Plug is one of the few earbud headphone models that won't constantly fall out of your ears during jarring activities. If you can get past the occasionally invasive feeling of the in-ear sound tubes, you'll probably dig The Plug. But if you can afford to pay more, check out Sony's MDR-EX71SL earbuds, which offer better sound and a more comfortable fit.
User reviews
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Outstanding deal for the price
by Timtropolis on October 27, 2005
Pros: GREAT sound, comfort, stay in place, excellent noise cancellation
Cons: No cons at this time
Summary: I have to say, I tried these mainly cause I wanted something that would stay in my ear without popping out (ala ear buds). I was pleasantly surprised when I ...
Summary: I have to say, I tried these mainly cause I wanted something that would stay in my ear without popping out (ala ear buds). I was pleasantly surprised when I got these. The sound is EXCELLENT. Its amazing that such a full sound can come out of such a tiny ear bud.
The foam inserts are very comfortable, and if the plastic tube in the foam inserts bother you, you can physically remove them but be prepared to have the foam insert fall away on occasion from the actual bud.
Also, do some shopping because some of the retailers on here will include a set of replacement buds with your order for no extra charge (ie, Comp-u-plus). This is nice cause everyone's ear is different so you can pick the insert that's right for you.
All in all, for the price, this is really a no brainer.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great for the price.
by Javgeoaa on June 15, 2005
Pros: Won't Fall Out Easily, Good Bass Response For Earbuds, Clear High Medium and Low Notes, Good Sound Isoloation, Comfortable, Cheap, 112 dB Sensitivity!
Cons: Tangle-Prone Cable, Doesn't Come in Many Colors, Would't mind an in-Line Remote.
Summary: First off, the review says that the in-ear plastic tubes can be a little painful/intrusive. But the design has been improved on and they now have a flexible black ...
Summary: First off, the review says that the in-ear plastic tubes can be a little painful/intrusive. But the design has been improved on and they now have a flexible black rubber tube that doesn't really hurt at all. So if your worried about the pain, you can forget about it.
Now, I like the design of the earphones, but I wouldn't mind if they came in a choice of colors other besides purple. It's good, but maybe a few other choices would be good. The cable does tend to get tangled if you simply scrunch them up and put them in your pocket, but I tend to wrap them around my mp3 player beforehand and have had no problems since.
The Plug comes with 3 different replacement foam pieces not including the ones that already come attached to them. So you get 4 in total. I tried out all of them but I stuck with the originals, which is good because they come with another replacement for those foam earpieces.
The earbuds sound great. Go ahead and play anything you'd like and these will perform. Great highs, mids and lows. Not many earphones have adequate bass. You can't even make it out on some. But The Plug packs plenty of bass. Enough to make you appreciate that you bought them.5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Amazing little ear plugs - better than most $50 headphones
by matahijau on April 17, 2005
Pros: Pretty damn good sound quality, cheaper than a pizza
Cons: Takes a little adjusting for comfort, cord tangles easily
Summary: Here's the story: I got these little earplugs to "tide me over" until I could afford a better pair. Well, after buying and returning two different sets of headphones ...
Summary: Here's the story: I got these little earplugs to "tide me over" until I could afford a better pair. Well, after buying and returning two different sets of headphones I have given up on finding anything better than the awesome Koss Plugs.
Two days ago I got a pair of Sony MDR-EX71SLs, quite a popular pair of earplugs. I figured the ~$35 'phones would be an upgrade. They didn't sound quite right at first so I did a little comparison. I think I surprised myself when I came to the conclusion that I like the Koss Plugs more!
The MDR-EX71's are perhaps a tiny bit crisper, but they sounded too hollow next to the Plug's fullness. These things really have great, full bass response. Everybody's a little different, but for me the Koss Plugs are the best sounding headphones I can find!
OK, now for the cons: the cord tangles somewhat easily, and the earpieces take a little adjusting to get in right, esp. if you have small ear canals like me. Not as comfortable as the MDR-EX71's.
If the cons discourage you - then you didn't read the first half of my review! Shockingly good sound quality! Go buy them and you may find that a pair of $15 earplugs satisfies all your audio head accessory needs!!!5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Spectacular...for me.
by stealthguitar on December 14, 2005
Pros: Light, Compact, perfect for working out, deep bass and good sound, lifetime limited warrenty, blocks out all other noises
Cons: Can't just stick them in your ears..have to squeeze and mold them first.
Summary: After reading the reviews on here and other sites, these seemed hit or miss. Squeeze the "memory foam", put them in your ears, and then the foam molds to your ...
Summary: After reading the reviews on here and other sites, these seemed hit or miss. Squeeze the "memory foam", put them in your ears, and then the foam molds to your ear canal. I have worn cheap earplugs for hearing protection at the airport before and that didn't bother me after I got use to it so I figured that buying these from amazon for 10 bucks, I couldn't go wrong. What a great buy! If you can wear earplugs then these will work for you. Great sound, they stay put while I run and block out the crappy music at the gym!
4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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I traded my $300 e4c's in for these that's how much they rock!
by bonedaddy4u1111 on March 9, 2007
Pros: Solid bass performance, doesn't have that "suction" feeling like most "innie" earbuds, very consistent sound.
Cons: Difficult to put in ear at first but oh so worth it!
Summary: If you want want some light weight, inexpensive, easy to sleep in (yes, even if you are a side sleeper), all out sexy ear buds with a killer bass you'...
Summary: If you want want some light weight, inexpensive, easy to sleep in (yes, even if you are a side sleeper), all out sexy ear buds with a killer bass you've found the right ones. I am very picky about my earbuds and have tried several including the "updated" version of these, the SparkPlug. The old saying "Nothing beats an original" applies because I found the new Sparkplugs to be very uncomfortable and could not get over the disturbingly scary suction sound and feeling I received when trying to put those in. With these original Koss Plugs I do not get that at all. The reason is due to the breathable memory foam like cushioning as opposed to a solid (not to mention dangerously long) rubber type insulation. My only complaint is that although the bass sounds very rich and deep it could be a bit tighter sounding. They're also very durable - I've had my pair for over 4 years now and they still fit, sound, and work great. Go with these you'll love them!
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best inexpensive headphones I've found
Pros: Obviously...low $. I've been using these for three years and they are the best value out there. Great noise cancellation (used on flights, trains, etc) and sound. If you need replacement foam plugs, pick up a box of "Flents" ear plugs and make your own.
Cons: Cord does tangle a bit and is somewhat long for belt or arm mounted players. One side came apart but was easily fixed with some super glue.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Simply moisten the tip before insertion - perfect!
by ronrpeterson on March 25, 2006
Pros: Price, performance, value.
Cons: Durability could be better, pulled cord out on several pairs when at work.
Summary: If you moisten the tip before inserting them in your ear it makes a perfect seal, eliminating at least 25% more noise and creating a perfect reflex chamber in your ...
Summary: If you moisten the tip before inserting them in your ear it makes a perfect seal, eliminating at least 25% more noise and creating a perfect reflex chamber in your ear. The difference between moistening and not has to be heard to be believed. I buy these things half-dozen at a time, give them away to friends and to replace them when cord gets tangled and breaks-pulled out.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Pretty good cheapie headphones
by wildswan on January 13, 2006
Pros: Plugs out surrounding noises
Cons: Hurts after extended wear
Summary: Pretty good cheapie headphones. They cancel a lot of outside noise and pump a good amount of bass (my preference) into your ears. The squishy foam gets uncomfortable after an ...
Summary: Pretty good cheapie headphones. They cancel a lot of outside noise and pump a good amount of bass (my preference) into your ears. The squishy foam gets uncomfortable after an hour, which is quite irritating. They come with extra ear foam pieces but the other shapes are just wierd and useless. I fly a lot and sometimes the headphones can double as a nice ear plug to block out noisy passengers! (or friends who snore too loud) These are usually very reliable but the last pair I bought cracked and broke apart. You can also get the same exact headphones from RadioShack a bit cheaper.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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best base responce from an earbud
by Liquidtemper on December 29, 2005
Pros: superb sound if inserted right
Cons: if you havn't used the foam plugs before, it can be a pain
Summary: I have used almost every type of earbud out there in an effort to get something that really works. It led me to these cheap little plugs from radioshack. after ...
Summary: I have used almost every type of earbud out there in an effort to get something that really works. It led me to these cheap little plugs from radioshack. after i finally got the little buggers in place, i was amazed by the crisp highs and detailed lows that 20 bucks could do. after much anticipation, i found the best mate to these underestimated little headphones. a costome fitted pair of covers to go over them. i decided to find an alternative to foam, and ran into starkey's costome ear-molds, and i was stunned by the matchup. you just replace the foam with the ear-molds and it's better than any of the sound isolation headphones have yet to offer. granted, it'l cost you $150 to get the fittings done, but it's a small price to pay. another product that should be coupled with any pair of your cheap headphones to isolate your music and with these being already made for a mold, they work fantastically.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Why are these headphones marketed?
by mscmab on November 24, 2008
Pros: Earplug design blocks out ambient noise and fits snuggly
Cons: The cord seems to be coated with an adhesive such that it tangles easily. The mute button is overly sensitive engages with the slightest touch (or gust of wind).
Summary: I know this these are low-end earphones, but they are made by the "first name in earphone design." There is no excuse for such poor workmanship and material.
The mute ...Summary: I know this these are low-end earphones, but they are made by the "first name in earphone design." There is no excuse for such poor workmanship and material.
The mute button actually needs to be tapped in order to get it to fully disengage and instead of a carrying case, they use "twist-ties" to keep the cord from invading your space. Would it really have cost that much more to make a good pair of earphones?
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Koss Corp.
- Part number: THEPLUG
- Description: Koss The Plug is a stereo earbud for the discriminating listener. It delivers accurate acoustical reproduction and unbelievable isolation typically found in more expensive, closed-style stereophones. The Plug features a dynamic element that is positioned just outside the ear and connected to a tubular port structure that is inserted on a soft expandable cushion into the ear canal. The soft foam cushion expands for a custom fit to improve isolation and enhance deep bass and treble clarity. The Plug has special ear cushions made of hydrophilic, formed urethane, for a custom fit each and every time it is inserted into the listener's ear. The custom fit enhances isolation when you want to plug out ambient sounds that interfere with the listening experience. The Plug delivers the full sound of Koss. Combined with your favorite music and a portable sound system, it is the ultimate accessory on the go. A mute switch on the cord provides connection to the outside world without having to un-plug. Four extra ear cushions and a colorful vinyl carrying case are included.
General
- Recommended Use The noise canceling feature keeps out ambient sounds on buses and airplanes. Plus, they are portable for easy transport.
- Product Type Headphones
- Weight 0.2 oz
- Additional Features L-shaped plug
Headphones
- Headphones Type Headphones - Binaural
- Headphones Form Factor In-ear canalphone
- Headphones Technology Dynamic
- Connectivity Technology Wired
- Sound Output Mode Stereo
- Response Bandwidth 10 - 20000 Hz
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) 0.3 %
- Sensitivity 112 dB/mW
- Impedance 16 Ohm
Remote Control
- Type None
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x Headphones ( Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm )
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included 1 x Headphones cable - Integrated - 4 ft, 1 x Headphones adapter - External
Power
- Power Device None
- Battery None
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support Limited lifetime warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - Lifetime
Manufacturer info
- Koss Corp.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Koss Corp. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.koss.com/
- Address:
4129 N. Port Washington Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53212 - Phone: 1-800-USA-KOSS
- Email: customersupport@koss.com
