What is Audio Amplifier IC

An audio amplifier IC (Integrated Circuit) is a type of integrated circuit specifically designed to amplify audio signals. It takes a small input audio signal and increases its power, allowing it to drive speakers or headphones to produce audible sound. These ICs are commonly used in various audio devices, such as stereo systems, home theaters, portable speakers, smartphones, and many other applications where audio amplification is required.

5 Best Audio Amplifier IC for Recommend

NO1. TDA1521
The TDA1521 is an audio amplifier IC manufactured by NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips Semiconductors). It is a dual BTL (Bridge-Tied Load) audio amplifier with two amplification channels. The TDA1521 is specifically designed for use in car audio systems, providing a high-quality audio output for automotive applications.

1) TDA1521 Features

Dual BTL Configuration: The TDA1521 is designed to operate in a Bridge-Tied Load configuration, which allows it to deliver higher power output to the connected speakers without the need for output coupling capacitors.
High Output Power: The IC can deliver a substantial output power, making it suitable for driving car speakers and delivering loud and clear audio.
Wide Supply Voltage Range: The TDA1521 can operate over a wide supply voltage range, allowing it to work with various power supply configurations in automotive applications.
Low Distortion: The IC is designed to provide low distortion audio amplification, contributing to better audio quality and fidelity.
Built-in Protection Circuits: The TDA1521 features built-in protection circuits such as thermal shutdown and overvoltage protection, ensuring the safety and reliability of the amplifier.
9-Lead SIL Package: The IC is available in a 9-lead Single In-line (SIL) package, making it easy to integrate into various PCB designs.

2) TDA1521 Circuit

TDA1521 Circuit

3) Pros and Cons of TDA1521

Pros

Cons

Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) Configuration
Limited Output Power (Typically 2 x 22W)
Suitable for Car Audio Systems
Single BTL Bridge
Low Distortion and Noise
Application-Specific (Car Audio)
Wide Supply Voltage Range
Availability (Subject to Market Variations)
Built-in Protection Circuits
Cost-Effective
Multiwatt15 Package

NO.2 TDA7293
The TDA7293 is a popular audio amplifier IC manufactured by STMicroelectronics. It is a monolithic integrated circuit capable of delivering high-quality audio amplification with low distortion and noise. The TDA7293 is commonly used in various audio applications, such as hi-fi stereo systems, home theaters, and powered speakers.

1) TDA7293 Features
Operating Supply Voltage Range: ±10V to ±50V
Output Power: Up to 100 Watts
Output Load Impedance: 4 ohms to 8 ohms
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Typically 0.05% at 20 Watts, 1 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): Typically 100 dB (A-weighted)
Quiescent Current: Typically 60 mA
Efficiency: Typically 90%
Gain: Fixed at 50 dB
Mute Function: Yes
Thermal Protection: Yes
Overcurrent Protection: Yes
Short-Circuit Protection: Yes
Multiwatt15 Package
2) TDA7293 Circuit

TDA7293 Circuit

3) TDA7293 Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) Configuration
Limited Output Power (2 x 22W)
Automotive Audio Application
Single BTL Bridge
Low Distortion and Noise
Application-Specific (Car Audio)
Wide Supply Voltage Range
Availability (Subject to Market Variations)
Built-in Protection Circuits
Suitable for Car Audio Systems

NO3. TDA7294
The TDA7294 is a widely used audio amplifier IC manufactured by STMicroelectronics. It is a monolithic integrated circuit capable of delivering high-quality audio amplification with low distortion and noise. The TDA7294 is commonly used in various audio applications, such as stereo systems, home theaters, and subwoofer amplifiers.

1) Features of TDA7294

Very High Operating Voltage Range: The TDA7294 can handle a wide operating voltage range of ±40V, providing flexibility in power supply configurations.
High Output Power: The IC is capable of delivering high output power, up to 100W (music power), making it suitable for driving medium to large-sized speakers and subwoofers in audio systems.
Muting/Stand-By Functions: It includes muting and stand-by functions, allowing for convenient user control over the amplifier's operation and power consumption.
No Switch On/Off Noise: The IC is designed to eliminate switch on/off noise, providing smooth and noise-free audio performance.
No Boucherot Cells: It does not require Boucherot cells, simplifying the amplifier's design and reducing external component count.
Very Low Distortion: The IC provides very low distortion audio amplification, ensuring high-quality audio output with minimal signal degradation.
Very Low Noise: It is engineered to have very low noise, contributing to clear and noise-free audio reproduction.
Short Circuit Protection: The IC includes built-in short-circuit protection, safeguarding the IC and connected speakers from damage in case of output short-circuits.
Thermal Shutdown: It features thermal shutdown protection, preventing the IC from overheating under extreme operating conditions.
2) TDA7294 Circuit

TDA7294 Circuit

3) TDA7294 Pros and Cons
Pros

Cons

Very High Operating Voltage Range (±40V)
Limited Output Power (Up to 100W Music Power)
High Output Power
Requires External Heatsink for High Power Operation
Muting/Stand-By Functions
Single Channel Operation (Mono Amplifier)
No Switch On/Off Noise
Application-Specific (Not Suitable for Stereo)
No Boucherot Cells
Very Low Distortion
Very Low Noise
Short Circuit Protection
Thermal Shutdown

NO4. LM1875
The LM1875 is a popular audio amplifier IC manufactured by Texas Instruments (TI). It is a monolithic integrated circuit designed for high-fidelity audio amplification with low distortion and noise. The LM1875 is commonly used in various audio applications, including stereo systems, home theaters, and powered speakers.

LM1875 circuit

NO5. LM386
The LM386 is a widely used audio amplifier IC manufactured by various semiconductor companies, including Texas Instruments (TI), ON Semiconductor, and others. It is a low-voltage audio power amplifier designed for low-power audio amplification in various portable and battery-operated devices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the best audio amplifier IC is essential for achieving optimal audio performance in electronic projects. Each audio amplifier IC mentioned in this article offers unique features and advantages suitable for various applications, from portable devices to high-fidelity audio systems. When choosing an audio amplifier IC, consider factors such as output power, efficiency, distortion levels, and compatibility with your specific audio application.

Stay updated with the latest advancements in audio amplifier technology, explore datasheets and technical documentation, and make informed choices when incorporating the best audio amplifier IC into your projects. Embrace the enhanced audio experience offered by these amplifier ICs and unlock new possibilities in audio design and sound reproduction. Whether you are amplifying music, enhancing audio in multimedia systems, or working on other audio-related projects, the best audio amplifier IC will be your key to achieving outstanding audio performance.