GaN Systems and Axign Demonstrate New 500W Class-D Reference Audio Amplifier

GaN Systems, the leading GaN power semiconductor specialist and audio technology innovator Axign, debuted a new groundbreaking GaN-based 500W Class-D audio amplifier. This reference design merges best-in-class technologies, including GaN Systems’ GaN power transistors and Axign’s Class-D controller, enabling companies to create unique audio systems that are smaller, sleeker, more efficient, more powerful, and provide better audio quality than previous generations.

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.

Efficient Power Conversion (EPC) introduced the first of a new integrated circuit (IC) product family offering higher performance and smaller solution size for high power density applications including DC-DC conversion, motor drive, and Class-D audio amplifiers. EPC announced an 80 V, 12.5 A power stage integrated circuit designed for 48 V DC-DC conversion. The EPC2152 is a single-chip driver plus eGaN FET half-bridge power stage using EPC’s proprietary GaN IC technology.

Infineon Technologies broadened its CoolGaN series with two new devices: the CoolGaN 400 V and the CoolGaN 600 V. Gallium nitride (GaN) offers fundamental advantages over silicon, with outstanding specific dynamic on-state resistance and smaller capacitances compared to silicon MOSFETs. The new CoolGaN 400 V device will appeal to audio product designers looking for a premium solution for home or professional Class D amplifiers.