You Can DIY!: High-End Class-D Audio Board for the Arduino MKR Family

Arduino boards are extremely popular among DIY enthusiasts and a number of add-ons or “shields” exist, particularly for audio players. Now, the Arduino MKR family has expanded the possibilities even more. This article details an Infineon amplifier board featuring integrated MERUS MA12070P proprietary multi-level Class-D ICs, which create an exciting platform for advanced wireless audio projects — including full-fledged Alexa-powered DIY smart speakers. This article was originally published in audioXpress, October 2020.

Ambiq unveiled its latest Apollo4 SoC family, enabling next generation endpoint devices with record-setting energy efficiency - running as low as 3µA/MHz - and new levels of performance. The new Apollo4 systems enable manufacturers to create leading-edge endpoint devices leveraging the unique SPOT platform with Ambiq’s easy-to-use, rich peripheral set. The Apollo4 is available now with CSP and BGA package offerings, as well as an Apollo4 Blue SoC with Bluetooth LE.

Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX98390 smart amplifier with integrated Dynamic Speaker Management (DSM) algorithm to efficiently deliver louder, clearer, richer sound at the lowest quiescent power in the market. The boosted, digital Class D DSM smart amplifier unleashes a system's full audio potential by safely driving higher power levels (up to 5.1W) into tiny speakers typically rated for much lower power between 1 to 3W.