Stereo DAC Aims At High-End Audio Applications

A high-performance stereo digital-to-analog converter, the WM8471, targets high-end audio applications. The DAC delivers up to 128-dB SNR (mono) and can be configured to meet the performance requirements of the most demanding applications by tailoring the audio filtering to the desired listening experience. The device’s unique set of advanced digital filter options provides a high degree of control over the many parameters that affect the audio output, allowing users the flexibility to specify many different characteristics, including group delay, phase and latency, impulse response, and transition band roll off. With its unique low-order modulator and multi-bit DAC architecture, the WM8741 achieves low out-of-band noise and excellent linearity to also improve sound quality. The device is a complete differential stereo audio DAC system with a range of audio interface options for both SACD and CD playback. The system includes a dithered digital interpolation filter, fine-resolution volume control, and digital enable de-emphasis, as well as a multi-bit sigma-delta modulator and switched-capacitor multi-bit stage with differential voltage outputs. The WM8741 is a next-generation follow-on for the WM8740 and can be used as a drop-in replacement for the WM8740 in some PCM-mode applications. The WM8741 is sampling now in a 28-pin SSOP package. Price is $6.71 in quantities of 10,000. WOLFSON MICROELECTRONICS PLC, San Diego, CA. (858) 676-5090.