NEW WOLFSON HIGH VOLTAGE AUDIO DACS REDUCE COST IN DVD PLAYERS AND RECORDERS
Wolfson Microelectronics plc has announced a new cost-saving technology in multi-channel DACs for DVD players and recorders. The WM8522 and WM8501 provide high-performance audio and integrate 1.7Vrms line drivers.
Standard audio DACs output between 0.7 and 1Vrms, which is inadequate for the higher line voltage levels used in modern consumer electronics. To achieve the line level which other consumer equipment expects, an amplifier stage with a dedicated 12V power supply is usually added. The WM8522 and the WM8501 directly provide the high voltage output necessary, from a standard 5V power supply.
This eliminates the need for an additional power supply and filter stage, saving an average of $2.80 per system, and dramatically reducing circuit board space.