JCALLY JM98 MAX Headphone Amplifier User Manual

1. Introduction

The JCALLY JM98 MAX is an upgraded high-end portable headphone amplifier designed to deliver exceptional audio quality. Featuring dual flagship chips (CS43198 DAC and SGM8262 OPAMP), it supports high-resolution audio decoding up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and native DSD256 playback. This device offers wide compatibility with various Type-C devices and provides a powerful, stable output across all headphone impedances.

2. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• 1 × JCALLY JM98 MAX Headphone Amplifier
• 1 × USB-A Adapter (for connecting to standard USB ports)
• 1 × User Manual

3. Specifications

Detailed product specification table.

4. Setup

4.1. Connecting to Your Device

The JM98 MAX is a plug-and-play device. Simply connect the Type-C end of the amplifier to your compatible smartphone, tablet, or computer. Then, plug your 3.5mm headphones or audio device into the 3.5mm jack on the amplifier.

Connection diagram for Type-C devices to 3.5mm audio output.

4.2. Using the USB-A Adapter

For computers or other devices with standard USB-A ports, attach the included USB-A adapter to the Type-C connector of the JM98 MAX before plugging it into the USB-A port.

Connecting the JM98 MAX to a computer via the USB-A adapter.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. EQ Adjustment

The JM98 MAX features a dedicated EQ button for quick sound profile adjustments. There are three EQ modes, indicated by the color of the EQ indicator light:

• Yellow Light: Balanced Original Mode - Provides a comfortable sound for extended listening, ideal for Classical, Jazz, Folk, and Pop music.
• Cyan Light: Low Frequency Enhancement Mode - Delivers pounding beats, built for EDM, Hip-Hop, Rap, Rock, Metal, movies, and gaming.
• Pink Light: High Frequency Enhancement Mode - Articulates vocals with pristine clarity and nuanced details, ideal for female vocals, instrumental music, NewAge, and fingerstyle guitar.

To switch between EQ modes, short press the EQ button. The indicator light will change to reflect the active mode.

Visual guide to EQ modes and indicator lights.

5.2. UAC Mode Switching (for specific devices)

Some devices, such as Huawei phones, Switch, PS5, and Windows 7 computers, may require switching to UAC 1.0 mode for full functionality, including call support. To switch to UAC 1.0 mode, long press the EQ button for 3 seconds.

5.3. Sampling Format Indicator

The device also has a sampling rate indicator light to show the current audio format:

• Red Light: Standby Mode
• Green Light: PCM Mode
• Blue Light: DSD (Exclusive) Mode

Visual guide to sampling rate indicator lights.

5.4. Inline Controls and Microphone Function

The JM98 MAX supports in-line controls and microphone functions for calls and recording with compatible 3.5mm CTIA standard microphone earphones. You can play/pause, adjust volume, and skip tracks forward/backward using your earphone's inline remote control unit.

Note:

• Some Huawei phones do not support calls in UAC 2.0 mode. Press and hold the EQ button for 3 seconds to switch to UAC 1.0 mode for call functionality.
• The device supports HD call recording but does not have a built-in microphone. It requires headphones with a microphone to enable this feature.

Illustration of inline control functionality.

6. Compatibility

The JM98 MAX is designed for wide compatibility with various devices:

• Android/iOS Devices: Supports phones and tablets with Type-C ports.
• Computers: Compatible with macOS and Windows 10 (or later) computers supporting the UAC 2.0 communication protocol.
• Gaming Consoles: Compatible with Switch and PS5 (requires switching to UAC 1.0 mode).
• Older Windows: Compatible with Windows 7 computers (requires switching to UAC 1.0 mode).

Important Compatibility Notes:

• This product is applicable to Type-C mobile phones, tablets, and other devices without a 3.5mm headphone jack. It may not support some devices that still retain a 3.5mm headphone jack.
• Some headphone brands may not be fully supported.
• There are CTIA and OMTP standards for 3.5mm headphones; different standards may have different wire control and audio modes. If your earphones' inline controls are invalid, please try other compatible headphones.

Detailed compatibility list for various devices. Please refer to this table for specific model support.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using the JM98 MAX, please follow these steps:

1. Verify Device Functionality: Ensure that the device you are connecting to (phone, tablet, computer) is functioning normally before connecting the amplifier.
2. Check Compatibility: If the amplifier does not work normally after connection, it might be incompatible with your specific device. Try connecting it to another compatible device to determine if the issue is with the amplifier or the original device's compatibility.
3. Restart Your Phone: If the product suddenly stops working during normal use, try restarting your mobile phone. Prolonged use without restarting can sometimes cause the Type-C port to become occupied by data, and a restart can resolve this.
4. 3.5mm Earphone Issues: If your 3.5mm earphones are not fully functional (e.g., line controls not working, only playback/pause, or only accompaniment without vocals), it might be due to different CTIA/OMTP standards. Try using another pair of compatible earphones.

8. Important Notes

• Slight Heating: This product is a high-power headphone amplifier that may generate slight heat during use, reaching approximately 38°C. This is normal and safe for operation, with no impact on device performance or safety.
• Compatibility Review: If you are unsure about compatibility with your specific device, carefully review the image descriptions and the detailed compatibility table in this manual.

Note on slight heating during high-power headphone amplifier use.

9. User Tips

• For optimal sound quality, ensure your audio source files are of high resolution (e.g., FLAC, WAV, DSD).
• Experiment with the three EQ modes to find the sound profile that best suits your music genre and personal preference.
• If experiencing any audio glitches or connectivity issues, a quick restart of your connected device (phone/computer) can often resolve the problem.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please refer to the official JCALLY website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

A digital version of this user manual can be accessed by scanning the QR code provided in the physical manual or by visiting the product page online.

Scan the QR code for the digital user manual (PDF).

PDF User Manual Link: JM98 MAX User Manual (PDF)