AKM Audio Codecs Provide Multi-Channel Support for Consumer, Professional Applications; New Chip Architecture Reduces Cost, Ensures Phase-Accurate Audio

AKM introduces two multichannel audio codecs utilizing Multi-bit architecture and Phase Linear filtering. Applications include A/V receivers, DVD players, pro audio products and automotive audio applications.

New AKM Audio Codecs Provide Multi-Channel Support for Consumer, Professional Applications New Chip Architecture Reduces Cost, Ensures Phase-Accurate Audio

San Jose, California (PRWEB) June 17th, 2003 — Asahi Kasei Microsystems Semiconductor, Inc. (AKM), a leading supplier of audio ICs for professional and consumer markets today introduced the AK4626 and AK4628, single-chip audio CODECs with 2-channel A/D, 6-/8-channel DACs, digital volume controls and digital audio playback rates up to 192 kHz. The AK4626/28 provide advanced feature sets to AV equipment such as amplifiers, digital TVs and car audio.

Both devices utilize new technology from AKM. The ADCs have an Enhanced Dual-Bit architecture that increases dynamic range. The DAC introduces the newly developed Advanced Multi-Bit architecture, and achieves wider dynamic range and lower out-of-band noise. This reduction in out-of-band noise makes system design easier by easing the requirements for amplifier and filter design. Unlike competing parts that utilize phase-distorting IIR output filters, both AKM devices utilize phase-linear filter architectures, resulting in zero phase distortion and zero group delay deviation across the audio spectrum.

According to Tony Rodrigues, Manager of Corporate Development for AKM Semiconductor, A growing concern among audio designers is phase distortion across the frequency spectrum. In multi-channel audio environments, phase is used to convey positional data. AKMs high-quality filters are essential in maintaining phase integrity among audio frequencies and in providing the best listening experience for home theater and high-fidelity applications."

The AK4628 has a dynamic range of 102dB for ADC, 106dB for DAC and is well suited for digital surround for home theater and car audio. An auxiliary digital audio input interface maybe used instead of the ADC for passing audio data to the primary audio output port. The AK4626/28 is also feature and pin-compatible with AKMs previous multichannel codecs, the AK4527 and AK4529. This compatibility translates into a cost-effective upgrade path to the latest multi-channel system formats including Dolby Digital Surround EX.

In addition to reducing overall system costs, the devices include a TDM mode, capable of transferring up to 8-channels of audio over a single interface. This reduces board layout complexity, improves system response time and reduces the number of DSP interfaces required to process audio.

Price and Availability
The AK4626 and AK4628 are available in 44-pin LQFP packages. Engineering samples and evaluation boards are available now. In 1K quantities, the AK4626 is priced at $7.05 and the AK4628 is $7.98.

About AKM
Asahi Kasei Microsystems (AKM) is a worldwide leader in CMOS mixed-signal ICs for the personal computer, professional audio, consumer electronics, automotive, and cellular phone industries. AKM is a subsidiary of the Asahi Kasei Corporation. a diversified technology, manufacturing and services company. To obtain more information, contact AKM Semiconductors, 2001 Gateway Place, Suite 650 West, San Jose, CA 95110 or call toll free at (888) 256-7364 or 408-436-8580. Visit the company's Web site at http://www.akm.com.

• Dolby Digital (AC-3) and Dolby Digital Surround EX are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Inc.