JadeAudio JD1 GAMING Launches with USB-C and Boom Mic

The JadeAudio JD1 GAMING was launched in mainland China today (October 22). The original JD1 debuted in 2023 and has now been redesigned with a focus on gaming. The dynamic driver remains unchanged, but the sound has been digitally enhanced through a DSP chip integrated into the cable’s USB-C plug. A boom microphone has also been added to improve audio quality during in-game voice chat.

JD1 GAMING Offers DSP-Enhanced Audio for Gaming and a Boom Microphone

JadeAudio, FiiO’s sub-brand, is introducing a gaming-oriented version of its budget IEM: the JD1 GAMING. The JadeAudio JD1 GAMING features a boom microphone and a USB-C cable that enables digital signal processing (DSP). In addition, the cable’s L-shaped plug makes it easier to play games while holding a smartphone in landscape orientation.

The USB-C Cable with an Integrated DSP Chip

The USB-C cable enables the JD1 GAMING to apply equalization to enhance its sound. As this in-ear monitor (IEM) is designed for gaming, JadeAudio developed an equalization preset specifically for first-person shooter (FPS) games.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer did not mention an option to create a custom equalization profile. However, it stated that users can select two additional presets: Music and Cinema.

Selecting Cinema mode increases bass presence and improves dialogue clarity. Treble is also attenuated to prevent listening fatigue during movies. In Music mode, JadeAudio prioritized a natural sound with smooth transitions between the bass, midrange, and treble.

The 90° USB-C Plug

To improve the smartphone gaming experience, JadeAudio opted for an L-shaped USB-C plug with a 90° angle. This design allows users to hold their smartphones more comfortably in landscape orientation while preventing the cable from bending.

Cable with a Boom Microphone

To improve voice pickup during in-game chat, the JD1 GAMING features a cable with a boom microphone. This configuration positions the microphone capsule closer to the mouth, improving voice quality when communicating with teammates.

The boom microphone is detachable and uses an MMCX connection. Its flexible boom also allows users to adjust its position for optimal voice pickup.

Inline Remote for Music Playback and Preset Selection

The buttons on the inline remote provide quick access to playback controls. Users can adjust music volume, play or pause playback, and skip to the next or previous track. Pressing the “+” and “−” buttons simultaneously also allows users to quickly switch between the available equalization presets.

Proprietary 2-Pin Connectors

Like the original JD1, the JD1 GAMING uses QDC-style 2-pin connectors. The manufacturer likely retained this design to prevent intermittent electrical contact during frequent head movements, which are common among smartphone gamers.

Recommended reading: Why Don’t 2-Pin Cables Fit Every In-Ear (IEM)?

Device and Operating System Compatibility

According to JadeAudio, the JD1 GAMING can be used with both mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, and PCs. The IEM supports multiple operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. The manufacturer also states that “no driver installation or adapters are required.”

JadeAudio JD1 GAMING: Specifications

• Cable conductor material: Oxygen-free copper (OFC)
• Cable length: 120 cm
• Compatibility: Android, iOS, iPadOS, Windows, and macOS
• Detachable cable: Yes
• Device connection plug: 90° USB-C
• Drivers per side: One dynamic driver (DD) with a 10 mm liquid crystal polymer (LCP) diaphragm
• Equalization: Three selectable presets
• Faceplate material: Zinc
• IEM connectors: QDC-style 0.78 mm 2-pin
• Impedance: 24 Ω at 1 kHz
• Inline remote buttons: Three buttons for controlling music playback and selecting presets
• Inline remote: Yes
• Microphone type: Boom
• Native decoding: PCM up to 384 kHz/24-bit
• Sensitivity: 109 dB/mW at 1 kHz
• Weight: 7 g

What Is Included in the JadeAudio JD1 GAMING Box?

The following items are included in the JadeAudio JD1 GAMING box:

• In-ear monitors (IEMs).
• Detachable boom microphone.
• Three pairs of silicone ear tips in small, medium, and large sizes, with the medium tips preinstalled.
• Quick start guide.
• Earphone cable with a USB-C plug.
• Button function manual.

Release, Pricing, and Availability

The JadeAudio JD1 GAMING is now available in mainland China for 109 yuan (approximately US$16.32). An international release date and pricing have not yet been announced. This article will be updated as new information becomes available.