High fidelity audio apps excel with MUS-IC D/A converters

ROHM has launched a new branding “MUS-IC” reflecting ROHM’s focus on solutions for high-fidelity audio products. This branding covers a range of D/A converter ICs (DAC ICs), optimized for high-fidelity reproduction, and power supply products.

The increased adoption of high-resolution audio sources has lately strengthened the demand for audio equipment that can deliver an appropriate sound quality. Audio DAC chips, which convert high-resolution digital audio data to analog without degrading the original sound source, are one of the most important components for determining the quality in audio equipment.

ROHM has state of the art D/A converter technologies that are optimized for high-fidelity reproduction of high-resolution sound sources. These DAC chips, which deliver class-leading low noise and low distortion (S/N ratio and THD+N characteristics) as demanded by top audio equipment manufacturers, have been optimized for sound quality through repeated listening tests and laboratory measurements.

Leveraging 50 years of expertise in developing audio ICs allowed ROHM to establish ‘sound quality design technology’ capabilities for high-fidelity audio reproduction that is close to the original sound source and thereby offer products designed with an emphasis on sound quality; including sound processors and power supply ICs. In May 2018 ROHM unveiled an initial development sample of a DAC chip at the international Hi-Fi Audio show held in Munich, Germany where it received recognition from top audio equipment manufacturers who expressed a keen interest in its adoption once it is commercialized.

In addition to this DAC chip, ROHM also offers a product portfolio of power supply ICs (BD372xx series) and sound processors (BD3470x series, BD34602FS-M). All products optimized for high fidelity audio applications are listed under its new audio device brand ROHM Musical Device “MUS-IC.”

“We have developed this product range by combining our sound quality design technology with the corporate mission of ’Quality first‘, and our vertically integrated manufacturing. We are also implementing activities that contribute to the dissemination and development of music culture with the ROHM Music Foundation.”, said Naruhiro Okamoto, Manager of the Audio Development Department at ROHM. “The team of experienced engineers has developed the ultimate IC solution which is perfectly represented by the new audio device brand ’MUS-IC’.”