Thanks all...
RE KOSS
I can only find the port a pros with mic... but I did find Koss RUK40 - $40 free ship with a 60 day free trial/return or upgrade window.
RE There is a solution!
given this is a budget buying affair, and having much respect for those members known to me here, it seems prudent to begin at the begining or entry level position, and if not satisfied or funds permit more to be laid out, escalate the trek accordingly.
IF the Koss entury isn't suitable, Grado SR80i SR125i, Sen SD 558, or Sure 840 are inline to follow up. of these, I'm sure one will quell the need for new confortable, noisey ear muffs.
Further research with online info tells me the Grado's might be too much for me sonically and wearing for extended periods I hear, isn't mentioned with glowing remarks especially below the 225i's.
The Sen 518 seems less attractive to waste time with given the price diffs between it and the 558 aren't insurmountable.
Right there with the Sen 558, sonically speaking, the Sure's 840 build quality doesn't get much love but it's confort and SQ do. it's unique diameter jack is offputting, but fixable.
naturally, hearing is believing and now this aspect is available, albeit, independantly of each prospect like wiht about anything else in audio. it usually is one after another, note taking time once more.
Huge thanks for the help here.
any further notions or input is, as always, very welcome.