Quick answer

Choose the Koss VC20 for simple volume control with wired Koss headphones, or the KUSB-50 Analog Audio Pass Through Cord to keep using your KPH30 Wireless or Porta Pro Wireless headphones when the battery dies.

What each cable does differently

The Koss VC20 is a straightforward volume control accessory that works with standard 3.5mm audio sources. It lets you adjust playback volume without reaching for your device. It does not add wireless functionality or charge your headphones.

The Koss KUSB-50 is an analog audio pass through cord designed specifically for Koss Hybrid Headphones like the KPH30 Wireless and Porta Pro Wireless. It plugs into the USB-C charging port and provides a 3.5mm connection, letting you listen in wired mode when the battery is low or when you prefer a wired connection for calls, video editing, or gaming.

Compatibility and use case differences

The VC20 works with any Koss headphones that use a standard 3.5mm plug. It adds inline volume control but does not change how your headphones connect or charge.

The KUSB-50 is only compatible with Koss Hybrid Headphones that have a USB-C charging port and support analog audio pass through. It is not a general-purpose cable for older wired models.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Koss VC20: Adds volume control to any standard 3.5mm Koss headphone. Simple, affordable, and universal.
  • Koss KUSB-50: Enables wired listening on KPH30 Wireless or Porta Pro Wireless via the USB-C port. Includes an in-line OneTouch remote and microphone. Requires a compatible Koss Hybrid Headphone; does not work with older wired models.
  • Key trade-off: The VC20 is a basic volume knob for wired headphones. The KUSB-50 is a specialized adapter that adds a wired fallback to select wireless models. Choose based on your headphone type and whether you need battery-free listening.

Product facts

  • KUSB-50 Analog Audio Pass Through Cord for KPH30 Wireless: The Koss KUSB-50 Analog Audio Pass Through is designed for Koss Hybrid Headphones and lets you connect your KPH30 Wireless or Porta Pro Wireless headphones to standard 3.5mm audio sources via the USB-C charging port. This means you can keep using your wireless headphones in wired mode when the battery runs out, without needing a separate backup pair.

    KUSB-50 Analog Audio Pass Through Cord for KPH30 Wireless

    KUSB-50 Analog Audio Pass Through Cord for KPH30 Wireless

  • VC20: The Koss VC20 helps you control the volume of your music with this convenient volume control accessory. It gives you quick volume adjustments at your fingertips, which is useful when your audio source does not have easy-to-reach controls.

    VC20

    VC20

Which cable fits your setup

Best for

  • Koss VC20: Anyone with standard wired Koss headphones who wants simple inline volume control.
  • Koss KUSB-50: Owners of KPH30 Wireless or Porta Pro Wireless who want a wired backup option for low-battery or low-latency scenarios.

Not for

  • Koss VC20: Not for wireless headphones or those needing a USB-C connection.
  • Koss KUSB-50: Not for older wired-only Koss models without a USB-C charging port.