Accelerating Audio Innovation with GaN in Class-D Amplifiers

Smaller, lighter, and better sounding Class-D audio systems with GaN (gallium nitride) were one of the technology trends in 2020. GaN Systems predicts that by the end of 2021 a significant number of the world’s noteworthy brands in the audio market will be offering GaN-based Class-D audio solutions. In this article , Paul Wiener (GaN Systems) explains why the technology benefits from three important trends, now influencing the rise of the predominance of audio in both consumer experiences and technology design.

High quality audio is now a “must have” across all segments from professional to home and portable applications. Class-D audio systems with GaN (gallium nitride) are not only smaller and lighter but provide better sound quality and were one of the technology trends in 2020. And because it’s that time of year to make predictions for the coming year, GaN Systems, a leading company in this space, published a forecast of 2021, identifying key trends for the technology.

GaN Systems published a document titled "GaN in Class-D Audio:Advantages with GaN Systems – a Comparative Look,” that reviews the various GaN and silicon transistor approaches in Class-D audio amplifier design techniques. The document identifies and compares the most popular GaN-based transistor and Silicon MOSFET solutions for high-performance Class-D amplifier applications, including the GaN Systems Class-D Amplifier and Companion SMPS Evaluation Kit.

GaN Systems, a company specialized in GaN (gallium nitride) power semiconductors, published a new technical document titled, “12V High-Efficiency Audio Reference Designs using GaN Power Transistors.” The technical note was developed following the launch of the new GaN Systems Class-D audio amplifier evaluation kit and from growing customer interest for designs in the 12V market for automotive, marine, powersports, and other applications from power system design engineers.