iFi Audio iEMatch+
Overview
The iFi Audio iEMatch+ sits between the audio source and your earphones to reduce hiss, clipping, and limited volume range. This 12.8-gram adaptor uses minZ helical wiring and offers two attenuation levels (-12 dB and -24 dB) to maintain audio resolution up to 24-bit while lowering background noise. It is compatible with balanced and unbalanced connections via a 3.5 mm TRRS jack and can be used with smartphones, portable audio players, and headphone amplifiers.
Helical wiring to preserve signal integrity
The iEMatch+ adopts a minZ (minimum impedance Zero) cable construction specifically developed by iFi Audio. This custom helical geometry minimizes both the cable’s capacitance and inductance, two electrical parameters that can degrade the audio signal during transmission. The spiral design also creates intrinsic shielding that protects the conductor against radio-frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), those invisible gremlins generated by nearby electronic devices.
The gold-plated PCB integrates carefully selected audiophile components, including MELF (Metal Electrode Leadless Face) resistors known for their thermal stability and low noise. The conductors use a 6N silver/copper matrix, a 99.9999% purity ensuring optimal conductivity. The 6063-T5 aluminum-magnesium alloy chassis, borrowed from aerospace, combines lightness and rigidity to avoid unwanted resonances.
The right-angled shape of the adaptor offers a practical, often overlooked advantage: it reduces mechanical stress on your source device’s jack, especially welcome with the stiff or heavy cables of certain high-end headphones.
Two attenuation modes to suit every situation
The side switch lets you toggle between two sensitivity levels. High Sensitivity mode reduces gain by 12 dB with an output impedance below 2.5 ohms, suitable for moderately sensitive earphones or moderately noisy sources. Ultra Sensitivity mode pushes attenuation to 24 dB with an output impedance below 1 ohm, designed for ultra-sensitive in-ear monitors like the Campfire Audio Andromeda or multi-balanced-armature earphones.
This dual option addresses a specific technical issue: when you lower your source’s digital volume to avoid clipping, you sacrifice bits of resolution. A concrete example: if your source offers 114 dB of dynamic range and you need to reduce the volume by 30 dB to reach a comfortable listening level, the remaining dynamic range falls to 84 dB—less than CD quality. The iEMatch+ allows you to keep the digital volume close to maximum while controlling the analog sound level, thus preserving the signal’s full resolution.
Intelligent handling of balanced and unbalanced connections
The iEMatch+ four-contact TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve) plug accepts both balanced connections and standard three-contact TRS plugs. A BAL/SE (Balanced/Single-Ended) switch allows you to force unbalanced mode if needed, although detection is generally automatic. This versatility addresses the needs of users with balanced cables for their earphones, an increasingly common configuration on audiophile models.
One technical detail deserves attention: in SE mode with a headset equipped with a microphone, the mic will be disabled. This limitation stems from the incompatibility between balanced audio signal routing and microphone signal transmission on the fourth contact. Users will therefore have to choose between optimal audio quality and phone functionality.
Technical specifications
Audio performance
- Noise reduction: eliminates hiss and background noise (12–24 dB)
- Dynamic enhancement: restores 16–24 bits
- Frequency preservation: maintains 100% of the spectrum
- Safe listening: normal volume with no loss of dynamics
- Convenient adjustment: set the volume for a clearer sound
Cable technology
- minZ Helix construction
- Custom helical design reducing capacitance and inductance
- Intrinsic shielding against RFI and EMI interference
- Ensures the purest possible audio transfer
Technical specifications
- Input impedance: > 16 Ω
- Output impedance
- High sensitivity: < 2.5 Ω
- Ultra sensitivity: < 1 Ω
- Length: 116 mm
- Weight: 12.8 g
Compatibility
- Universal compatibility: works with smartphones, digital audio players, and other sources with a 3.5 mm output
General information
- Benefits: clearer, more accurate sound; increased dynamics; reduced hiss and background noise; cleaner vocals; and an enhanced listening experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the iEMatch+ work with all headphones and earphones?
The adaptor is optimized for earphones with an impedance between 16 and 600 ohms, with a minimum impedance of 12.5 ohms. Ultra-sensitive models like multi-BA IEMs benefit the most from its capabilities. Low-sensitivity, high-impedance headphones (300 ohms and above) may lack volume on low-power sources after attenuation.
What’s the difference between the iEMatch+ and the other versions (2.5 mm, 4.4 mm)?
Each version uses the connector corresponding to its format. The iEMatch+ remains the most versatile with its universal 3.5 mm jack and automatic balanced/unbalanced compatibility. The 2.5 mm and 4.4 mm versions specifically target balanced configurations found on recent audiophile DAPs, with slightly different impedance characteristics depending on the model.
How do I choose between High and Ultra modes?
Start with High (-12 dB), which better preserves dynamics. If hiss remains audible or the volume is still too high at minimum, switch to Ultra (-24 dB). Earphones with sensitivity above 110 dB/mW generally require Ultra mode, while those between 100 and 110 dB/mW work well in High.
Can the iEMatch+ be used with a desktop amplifier?
Absolutely—this is a common use case. Amplifiers designed for hard-to-drive headphones often generate too much power for sensitive IEMs. The adaptor allows you to use these amplifiers with a wider variety of earphones while maintaining a usable volume adjustment range.
Does the adaptor work on airplanes?
iFi provides a dual-mono adaptor for in-flight entertainment systems, although this connector is increasingly disappearing from newer aircraft in favor of standard jack or USB ports. The iEMatch+ primarily helps reduce the significant hiss in airplane audio systems while improving the generally compressed sound dynamics of these setups.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: IFI0040
- GTIN / EAN: 5060738784219
