ESS Technology Introduces ES9291, a New High-Performance SMART Codec with Powerline Driver

< Newsroom | Posted: Wednesday December 10, 2025

The ES9291 SMART Codec, built on ESS’ patented Hyperstream® IV architecture, delivers SABRE’s legendary sound quality in a cost-effective solution.

December 10th, 2025 – San Jose, California – ESS Technology, Inc., the industry leader in audio semiconductor devices, today introduces its newest member to the SABRE® CODEC family that integrates stereo analog input and output channels with exceptional capability.

The ES9291 is a cost-effective solution that integrates stereo Analog-Digital (ADC) and Digital-Analog (DAC) converters that provide ultra-low noise conversion with a True dynamic range (DNR) of +121dB, and a THD+N that is rated at -110dB per channel on both the ADC and DAC pathways. The ES9291 targets professional audio interfaces, very high-quality microphones, live stream media, powered speakers, mixers, recorders and other applications.

The ESS Technology patented Hyperstream® IV architecture incorporated in the ES9291 provides the legendary SABRE sound quality which further improves audio performance while consuming lower power compared to previous generations providing a full and rewarding listening experience.

The ES9291 SMART CODEC incorporates ESS’ 2nd generation Audio Signal Processors (ASP2) on both the DAC & ADC data paths that allow customers to target their audio requirements. Advanced DAC and ADC inter-path mixing with the ASP2 allows for advanced audio processing. Customers can integrate multi-band PEQs, MIXERs, Audio Expanders and Compressors (DRC), AGL, stereo widening, and specialty filters such as RIAA and cross-over filters. Using ESS’ SABRE Intelligence Studio (SI Studio) to help simplify programming of the ASP2 can lead to reducing or eliminating DSP requirements.

The ES9291 PowerLine Driver is a very low-noise audio driver that delivers clean, high-fidelity sound to both line outputs, headphones and other applications. It is designed for wide dynamic range and solid current drive, it ensures clear, reliable audio across various loads.

With a 2Vrms line level output and the capability to output 70mW with the internal charge pump and up to 125mW with a 32Ω load per channel with an external negative supply, the SABRE PowerLine Driver is a versatile output stage.

Additional features include:

  • A high-performance analog phase locked loop (APLL) reducing BOM requirements for simplification of design.
  • Temperature sensor for monitoring device under load or conditions
  • Jack Detection for headphone jack tip recognition
  • A programmable microphone (MIC)BIAS for analog microphone support and digital PDM microphones
  • Independent Digital volume control including up to +42dB of digital gain
  • Integrated low noise reference regulators for BOM reduction
  • 8 Pre-programmed optimized digital filters for ADC & DAC

Multiple I/O formats are available including I2S, LJ and TDM daisy chain, while supporting high sample rates up to 768kHz PCM. Up to DSD1024 & DoP256 can be input to the DAC and a Stereo S/PDIF output are available.

The control interface can be programmed using multiple input methods including I2C, SPI, and a hardware mode (HW) for ease of programmability.

The ES9291 SMART CODEC is available in a 48 pin 7mm x 7mm QFN package.

Evaluation boards, reference designs, and samples are available. For more information, please contact your local ESS Representative or distributor.

More Details can be found at http://www.esstech.com.

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About ESS Technology
For more than four decades, ESS Technology 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 mobile, consumer, automotive, and professional audiophile systems. The company was founded in 1984, and today ESS Technology is best known for its SABRE series of high-performance audio products. For more information, visit http://www.esstech.com.