AKM Announces New Low-Power 32-Bit Stereo DAC with 32% Smaller Footprint

Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) has started mass production of the AK4333ECB, a 32-bit stereo audio D/A converter (DAC) with built-in headphone amplifier. While the mounting area has been significantly reduced by 32% compared to AKM's previous products, it features Velvet Sound technology for high sound quality. The new low power DAC was developed to enhance mobile and portable wireless designs, such as wireless headphones and VR/AR headsets.

Diodes Incorporated announced an enhanced version of its popular sounder driver for small and portable devices. The PAM8904E delivers higher performance at a lower voltage in a smaller package. The PAM8904E sounder driver is designed to meet the requirements of the smallest application operating from extremely low voltages.

It’s not unusual to see friends gathered around a sideways-turned phone to share the viewing and listening experience while watching videos on the phone’s external speakers. This trend toward stereo audio in smartphones, and other audio-playing devices, shows that audio amplifiers are playing a more important role in smartphone design. As a result, audio amplifiers are seeing a big jump in both unit volume and technology. This article was originally published in audioXpress, July 2019.