ROHM has developed the 32-bit D/A converter IC (DAC chip) and evaluation board designed for flagship models in the MUS-IC™ series optimized for high-resolution audio playback.
Engineered to maximally extract and accurately convert high-resolution sound data to analog, DAC chips are crucial for determining audio equipment quality. ROHM leverages over 50 years of expertise in audio IC development to establish superior sound quality design technology, offering products such as high-fidelity sound processors and high-quality audio power ICs.
ROHM’s latest product builds on the 1st generation MUS-IC™ BD34301EKV audio DAC chip, renowned for its sound quality and widely adopted in high-end models from various companies. The BD34302EKV inherits the core design concept behind ROHM’s DAC chip — natural flat sound — and, by adding the three elements of spatial reverberation, quietness, and dynamic range from the MUS-IC™ series to authentically reproduce the “texture” of musical instruments for an even more realistic audio experience.
By incorporating a new algorithm for Data Weighted Averaging (DWA), the BD34302EKV achieves a THD+N characteristic of -117dB (THD: -127dB), a key performance indicator that enhances sound quality by achieving a sound quality that conveys a realistic sense of texture. At the same time, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 130dB provides noise performance befitting a flagship DAC chip, while a sampling frequency of up to 1,536kHz allows customers to fully leverage the high-precision calculations of their digital signal processors (DSPs).
In monaural mode, which allocates one DAC chip per channel, ROHM’s proprietary HD (High Definition) monaural mode contributes to smoother, more natural sound. As part of the MUS-IC™ series, uncompromising craftsmanship has been applied down to the smallest details. Based on years of expertise in sound quality design, the optimal bonding wire material for each terminal of the BD34302EKV was selected to accurately convey the natural “texture” of musical instruments. These features help create the ideal sound sought by high-end audio manufacturers.
MUS-IC™ Series DAC Chip Lineup
Online Sales Information
Availability: NowOnline Distributors: DigiKey™, Mouser™, and Farnell™
The products will be offered at other online distributors as they become available.
- Applicable Part No: BD34302EKV
- Evaluation Board Part No: BD34302EKV-EVK-001
MUS-IC™ — ROHM’s Highest Grade Audio ICs
Created by combining the “sound quality design technology” with ROHM’s company mission of “Quality First”, “vertically integrated production system”, and “contribution to the musical culture”, MUS-IC™ (official name: ROHM Musical Device “MUS-IC™”) is an audio device brand that represents the ultimate IC solutions developed by ROHM’s team of experienced and dedicated engineers. For more information, please visit ROHM’s Musical Device “MUS-IC™” web page. https://micro.rohm.com/en/mus-ic
*MUS-IC™ is a trademark or registered trademark of ROHM Co., Ltd.
Terminology
High Resolution Audio Source
High-resolution audio sources, often called “hi-res audio,” typically use a sampling frequency of 96kHz or higher and a bit depth of 24 bits or more. In comparison, standard CD-quality audio is played back at a 44.1kHz sampling frequency with 16-bit depth. This means hi-res audio provides significantly more data resolution and dynamic range than standard CD-quality audio, resulting in superior sound quality.
DWA (Data Weighted Averaging)
Technology that improves audio characteristics by balancing mismatches between elements when operating multiple switching components for analog conversion.
THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise)
A key performance metric for audio equipment that measures the ratio of harmonics to the fundamental wave. Indicates how accurately the waveform is reproduced — the smaller the value the more faithful the reproduction.
HD (High Definition) Monaural Mode
ROHM’s proprietary digital signal processing technology that improves bit (amplitude) resolution. This allows for improvements in numerical performance while enhancing sound quality to deliver smooth audio that reveals the texture of musical instruments.
DigiKey™, Mouser™ and Farnell™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies
