ESS Technology Introduces Industry’s First High Performance 8-Channel SMART DAC
< Newsroom | Posted: Monday September 23, 2024
Incorporating the latest generation of SABRE high performance DACs with integrated Line Driver
Sept 23, 2024 – San Jose, California – ESS Technology, Inc., the industry leader in audio semiconductor devices, today announces two 8-channel DACs with integrated line drivers with exceptional performance. The incorporated ESS patented Hyperstream® IV architecture provides the listener with the legendary SABRE® sound quality with improved audio performance and a refined and enjoyable listening experience.
The ES9082 SMART DAC and ES9081 DAC are ESS’ next generation devices that deliver a True DNR of +120dB and -108dB THD+N with 2VRMS line driver for each of the 8 channels allowing for an amazing audio experience while reducing the Bill-Of-Material (BOM). Channels can be summed to improve performance in an application requiring fewer channels. A 2-channel differential configuration can achieve up to +127dB DNR with a 4VRMS output. ESS’ True DNR performance does not rely on Dynamic Range Enhancement (DRE) technology that shows higher DNR but is known to cause pop noise in some applications.
The ES9082 SMART DAC incorporates a 2nd generation of ESS Audio Signal Processor (ASP2) that allows customers to integrate their preferred audio algorithms by using ESS’ proprietary SABRE Intelligence Studio graphical software tool. For example, customers can integrate multi-band PEQs, DRC, AGL, MIXERs, Audio Expansion and Compression, stereo widening, and specialty filters such as RIAA de-emphasis and cross-over filters. Incorporating these algorithms in the SMART DAC improves the audio performance and simplifies the audio system. In addition, a 2-channel input is available to mix a secondary stereo source such as a microphone monitor into ASP2. The ASP2 can be programmed using the slave I2C, slave SPI interfaces or the SPI master interface with an optional external SPI Flash memory for very fast program loading and for storing multiple configuration programs.
The serial data interface supports TDM, TDM Daisy Chain, I2S, LJ, DoP and DSD input formats with sample rates of up to 768kHz (using 64FS mode) and DSD1024. The integrated TDM & S/PDIF output encoders allow for a variety of systems design considerations.
Other features:
- SPI and Hardware (HW) modes for more versatility in configurations
- The integrated proprietary Analog PLL eliminates an external oscillator with no effect on performance.
- Digital Volume range from +1dB to -126dB in 0.5dB steps with 0 to +42dB pre-gain in +6dB Steps
- 8 internal digital filters
- Very low noise DAC reference regulators
- 8 input channels of PDM are supported
The ES9081 without ASP2 capability is drop-in compatible with the previous generation of ES9080 and allows customers to upgrade seamlessly and achieve higher performance with their current systems.
The ES9081 & ES9082 SABRE DACs are ideal companions for Professional Audio equipment and mixers, Soundbars and Powered Speakers, A/V receivers and integrated Amplifiers as well as Class-D pre-amplifier controllers.
The ES9081 is available in a 40 pin 5mm x 5mm QFN package.
The ES9082 is available in a 48 pin 7mm x 7mm QFN package.
Reference boards and designs, SABRE Intelligence Studio (SIS) software, and samples are available. For more information, please contact your local ESS Technology representative or distributor.
More Information about ESS Technology and their products can be found at http://www.esstech.com.
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About ESS Technology
ESS Technology, since inception, has been on the cutting edge of audio technology. A privately held fabless semiconductor company, ESS Technology designs and markets high-performance analog and HiFi audio devices for the consumer, professional, and automotive audio sectors. Celebrating their 40th Anniversary in 2024, today ESS Technology is best known for its SABRE series of world class audio products. For more information, visit http://www.esstech.com.