STMicroelectronics Announces Flexible, Space-Saving Class-D Amplifier for Car Audio

STMicroelectronics' latest HFA80A automotive-grade analog-input class-D audio amplifier combines high efficiency, small size, and a low bill of materials, with load diagnostics optimized for automotive and native electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). With its feedback-before-filter topology and 2MHz nominal PWM frequency, the ST HFA80A lets designers optimize the output filter for the targeted performance and achieve a compact outline with small component values.

STMicroelectronics announced its latest TDA7901 single-chip quad-bridge automotive amplifier using the company's advanced BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) technology, integrates a buck controller for class-G power switching, and supports high-resolution audio. The TDA7901 features a full D/A converter, digital input for direct connection to I2S (or TDM) and powerful MOSFET output stages. A market-unique combination that STMicro says will be ideal for listening and high efficiency.

Alps Alpine, the manufacturer of electronic components and automotive infotainment systems and its domestic marketing division Alpine Electronics of America, announced a new series of products aimed at taking high resolution audio reproduction in car audio to a whole new level. The new AlpineF#1Status is a complete systems approach to premium car audio that embodies Alpine’s vision of “Emotion in Mobility,” by delivering an unparalleled music experience.

Originally published as part of the Automotive Audio Solutions Market Update feature in audioXpress June 2021, this article offers an overview on how British audio pioneer Meridian Audio is transforming listening experiences with new technologies for the car. For more than 10 years, Meridian has built a strong presence within the automotive market, with outstanding recent examples available for McLaren Automotive, Jaguar Land Rover, Human Horizons, Rivian, and Kia. The article details the company's approach with 3D surround sound and immersive in-car audio systems that combine all its digital processing solutions.

This year, I was really looking forward to meeting with the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), the support organization for the advancement and adoption of USB technology, and discuss their projects for the USB4 Specification, the really big, gigantic update story on that front (at least in consumer electronics) since CES last year. The USB-IF announced the publication of the latest and greatest USB4 specification in September 2019, offering a major update to the USB architecture that complements and builds upon the existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 architectures. This article was published originally in The Audio Voice 264 newsletter, February 6.

The new Audison bit Play HD is the first high-resolution music player specifically developed for automotive applications, allowing for a vastly superior listening experience to CD and compressed MP3 files. The manufacturer of car audio products designed a complete solution with internal or external storage and control apps for Apple and Android devices.