Wolfson introduces the world's leading ultra-low power audio devices

Wolfson Microelectronics recently announced the launch of a world-leading ultra-low power codec WM8904 with class W headphones and line drivers, which is designed to provide low power consumption and significantly extend playback time, suitable for applications such as media players , Headsets, recorders and multimedia mobile phones and other portable applications.

WM8904 is one of Wolfson's new generation of ultra-low power audio device series products. It provides high-performance audio and market-leading low power consumption in an ultra-thin, low-profile package.

WM8904 integrates Wolfson's Class W amplifier technology, which can intelligently track the actual music signal level and uses an adaptive dual-drive charge pump to optimize power dissipation. The design of the ground reference output also got rid of the dependence on large DC-blocking headphone capacitors, thereby improving bass response and effectively saving printed circuit board (PCB) space and the overall bill of materials (BOM) of the audio subsystem.

WM8904 is also equipped with Wolfson ’s innovative SmartDAC ™ technology, which is a unique low-power DAC capacitor switch architecture, which enables the DAC to convert the power consumption of the headset to only 4mW, and provides up to 30mW per channel for the headphone load.

By integrating Wolfson ’s innovative SilentSwitch ™ technology, its audio performance is further enhanced; this technology can enhance its “pop & click” suppression capability by integrating complex clamping and sequencer circuits. With this feature, during power-on / off and mute / unmute, the output is held at ground by clamping, and unwanted noise at the headphone amplifier and line output can be effectively suppressed. By using a built-in control write sequencer with programmable delay time to turn on / off multiple parts of the WM8904, “cracks” can be significantly reduced, and the development time of the driver software can be greatly accelerated Time to market.

WM8904 includes an advanced dynamic range controller (DRC) that improves audio performance. In the recording mode, the DRC can be flexibly configured to optimize the sound quality of the recording, and at the same time prevent the distortion of the recording signal to the greatest extent. Wolfson also adopted the "quick release" quick release function to improve the clarity of the recording in the presence of large impulse noise. This kind of function guarantees that the noise event operated by the user will not obscure the recorded signal at all. In playback mode, the DRC maximizes the volume of the output signal, enhancing the perceived loudness of audio data.

Wolfson ’s innovative RetuneTM Mobile parametric equalizer is powerful and ensures that system designers can accurately customize the output signal path through it to optimize the performance of speakers or other transducers. Various line inputs, including digital and analog microphone inputs, can be supported, with bypass and line outputs for Class W headphones. The WM8904 is available now, and two small packages are available, including the ultra-compact 2.6 x 2.5mm chip scale package.

Duncan Macadie, Wolfson ’s low-power audio product line manager, said: “WM8904 provides ultra-low power consumption in all modes. Wolfson focuses on battery life when running actual audio signals and ensures that its high-fidelity audio performance is not compromised The capability is second to none in the industry. The WM8904 provides an optimal combination of audio performance, power consumption, package size, and overall solution cost, making it an ideal choice for a variety of portable multimedia applications. "