GaN Systems Releases Best Performance Class-D Amplifier and Companion SMPS Evaluation Kit

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GaN Systems, the global leader in GaN (gallium nitride) power semiconductors, today announced the debut and availability of a new amplifier evaluation kit for high sound quality Class-D audio systems. The evaluation kit includes a 2 channel, 200W per channel (8 ohm) Class-D audio amplifier and companion 400W, continuous power audio-grade SMPS. This solution highlights an easy plug and play design with features such as multi-audio signal inputs, bridge-tied load output, and open-loop/closed-loop toggling. With GaN, the design is very efficient and operates without heatsinks. These features allow audio design engineers to create premium audio products at shorter time to market and at an affordable price.

The convergence of audio trends including demand for more power, size and weight reduction, and growing consumer demand for better audio quality requires innovative approaches to enhance sound quality, increase efficiency, and reduce size which is served by GaN power semiconductors. Applications include smart speakers to automotive and high-end home audio systems.

Evaluation Kit Performance

• 200W/Ch (8?), 300W/Ch (4?) amplifier with 96% efficiency
• 400W continuous, 550W peak companion SMPS
• < 0.01% THD+N (8?, 1W, 20Hz to 20kHz)
• +/?0.5dB frequency response to 50kHz
• High efficiency and no heatsinks, reducing size, weight, and total system cost
• Good EMI/EMC performance due to reduced ringing/noise

“Class-D Audio amplifiers are reaching a new level of performance with GaN. Industry experts and audiophiles alike have tested and listened to the output of our design and are truly impressed,” says Paul Wiener, GaN Systems’ Vice President of Strategic Marketing. “The audio quality combined with the thermal and EMI/EMC performance provide a great solution for our customers.”