How to Attach and Use the HiBy HC1 Plug with CuAg8 Cable

By HiBy - Official Online Store - Music players, Earphones ... | Published: 2026-10-23

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to swap the connector on your CuAg8 cable using the HiBy HC1 plug. Follow these steps to change IEM connectors without soldering.

Quick answer

Attach the HiBy HC1 plug to your CuAg8 cable by aligning the 4Pin-lock connectors and twisting until secure. No tools needed.

Why swap the connector on your CuAg8 cable?

The CuAg8 coaxial silver-plated copper balanced cable comes with a fixed 4Pin-lock plug, but you might need a different termination for your source. The HiBy HC1 digital decoding plug lets you change the connector without cutting or soldering.

This is useful if you switch between a balanced DAP and a smartphone dongle, or if you want to use your IEMs with a device that has a different output. The HC1 plug handles PCM 384K/32 hardware decoding and offers impedance matching from 8 to 100Ω, so it also improves compatibility with various sources.

What you need to know before starting

The HC1 plug is designed specifically for cables with a 4Pin-lock connector, like the CuAg8. It is not compatible with standard 2-pin or MMCX connectors. Check that your cable has a 4Pin-lock termination before purchasing.

The HC1 plug adds a small inline module to your cable. This module contains the DAC and amp circuitry, so you will notice a slight increase in weight near the source end. That is normal and does not affect comfort during use.

Step-by-step: Attach the HC1 plug to your CuAg8 cable

1. Disconnect the existing plug: Hold the CuAg8 cable's 4Pin-lock connector firmly and pull it straight out of your IEM or source. Do not twist or wiggle the connector—pulling straight prevents damage to the pins. If the connector feels stuck, check that the locking mechanism is fully released before pulling.
2. Align the HC1 plug with the cable: Take the HiBy HC1 plug and line up its 4Pin-lock receptacle with the cable's connector. The plug has a small notch that matches a groove on the cable connector. Insert gently until the two surfaces meet. Do not force the connection. If it does not slide in easily, rotate the plug 180 degrees and try again.
3. Twist to lock: Rotate the HC1 plug clockwise until you feel a click or slight resistance. This locks the connector in place and ensures a stable electrical connection. A loose connection can cause intermittent audio or static. Give it a gentle tug to confirm it is secure.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to your IEMs: Plug the CuAg8 cable's IEM connectors into your earphones. Make sure the left and right channels match the markings on the cable. If you hear only one channel or no sound, recheck the connection at both ends.
5. Attach the HC1 plug to your source: Plug the HC1's output into your smartphone, DAP, or computer. The plug supports USB-C and other common connectors depending on the version you have. Your device should recognize it as an external DAC. If your source does not detect the HC1, try a different USB cable or port. Some devices require a USB OTG adapter.
6. Adjust impedance matching (optional): If your IEMs sound too bright or too quiet, use the HC1's impedance matching switch (if available on your model) to select the appropriate setting for your earphones' impedance (8-100Ω). Start with the lowest impedance setting and increase until the sound is balanced without distortion.

Product details

HiBy HC1 plug for CuAg8 and CuAg8 Cable: PCM384K/32 Hardware Decoding | 0.0018% Low Distortion | 8-100Ω Impedance Matching | 4Pin-lock Cable Supported The HC1 plug upgrades your CuAg8 cable with hardware decoding and impedance matching, so you get cleaner sound and better compatibility with different sources.
HiBy HC1 plug for CuAg8 and CuAg8 Cable