100V GaN chips shrink Class D audio amplifier

SounDigital, a company based in Brazil, has recently incorporated the latest 100V gallium nitride transistors from Infineon Technologies into a cutting-edge 1500W Class D audio amplifier. This innovative amplifier features a five-channel design that operates at a frequency of 800 kHz, allowing for the use of smaller magnetics to reduce overall size and improve efficiency.

By utilizing the CoolGaN enhanced-mode GaN transistor, the energy efficiency of the amplifier has been boosted by five percentage points, resulting in a 60 percent reduction in energy loss, equivalent to 75 watts. This advancement has enabled the amplifier to utilize a heat sink that is half the size of previous models, enhancing both performance and compactness.

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The integration of the IGC033S101 in a PQFN-3×5 package and IGB110S101 in a PQFN-3×3 package has further contributed to a 40 percent reduction in the overall system size without compromising performance. Additionally, the audio quality has seen significant improvements, with total harmonic distortion (THD) reduced by 70 percent and standby current decreased by 40 percent, thanks to the implementation of CoolGaN devices.

Juliano Anflor, the CEO of SounDigital, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Infineon, stating, “We are excited to enhance the performance of our audio amplifiers using Infineon's GaN power semiconductors, enabling us to inspire people and provide entertainment by amplifying music around the world. GaN transistors significantly enhance our overall system performance with minimized system cost and increased ease of use.”

According to Johannes Schoiswohl, Head of the GaN Business Line at Infineon, “GaN technology is transforming the audio amplifier industry, providing unparalleled efficiency and performance. GaN delivers superior sound quality, higher power density, and reduced energy consumption, enabling SounDigital’s audio systems to reach new levels of fidelity and performance.” This collaboration between SounDigital and Infineon marks a significant milestone in the advancement of audio amplifier technology.