AK4385ET - 24-Bit 192kHz Stereo DAC | AKM
MPN: AK4385ET ✗ End of LifeAK4385ET Overview
A digital-to-analog converter, or DAC, converts digital audio samples into an analog voltage suitable for audio amplification, headphones, speakers, line-level inputs, or digital recording equipment. Within the broader semiconductor hierarchy, the AK4385ET is an audio data-converter IC and a specialized member of the ADC/DAC family. Its two-channel architecture supports stereo audio conversion without requiring two separate external DAC packages.
The principal performance characteristics are 24-bit resolution, a maximum sampling rate of 192 kHz, 108 dB dynamic range, and full differential SCF outputs. The 24-bit interface accommodates high-resolution digital audio data, while the 192 kHz capability supports high-rate studio, mastering, broadcast, and consumer applications. Full differential outputs can also remove the need for AC-coupling capacitors in suitable output networks.
AKM describes the AK4385 as using a multibit modulator architecture to preserve linearity and improve THD+N performance. The I2S interface makes the device suitable for systems that transmit PCM audio data from a digital audio processor, receiver, decoder, or source. The compact 16-pin TSSOP outline supports surface-mount assembly while providing separate connections for the two-channel interface, supplies, clock signals, and analog outputs.
Typical uses include professional digital mixers, multichannel audio processors, high-resolution music players, home-theater equipment, recording interfaces, and digital audio monitoring. In stereo systems, the converter can provide left and right analog outputs from a common digital source. In multichannel equipment, several devices may be used when more than two channels are required, subject to the interface and clock design described in the manufacturer datasheet.
Designers should follow the pin-description table, recommended application circuit, and interface timing diagrams in the AK4385 datasheet before assigning PCB signals. Keep the digital clock and data traces away from the analog outputs, use the specified decoupling arrangement, and observe the required relationship between the audio master clock and the I2S source clock. The differential outputs should use the manufacturer-recommended load and reconstruction network rather than an improvised output stage.
This product page combines the exact AK4385ET specifications, package information, interface characteristics, application guidance, and design cautions needed to evaluate the converter before schematic capture. It also highlights where the datasheet must be consulted for the complete pin map, timing limits, recommended circuit, and electrical-characteristic test conditions.
Drop-in alternatives for AK4385ET — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
No drop-in alternatives available for this product.
Request AlternativesAK4385ET Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Device Type | Two-channel audio DAC |
| Converter Architecture | Multibit delta-sigma modulator |
| Resolution | 24 bit |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz |
| Dynamic Range | 108 dB |
| Number of Channels | 2 channels |
| Digital Audio Interface | I2S |
| Output Configuration | Full differential SCF outputs |
| AC-Coupling Capacitors | Not required for full differential SCF outputs |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +85°C |
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Package Pitch | 0.65 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
AK4385ET 0.65 mm Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for AK4385ET (0.65 mm package). This analog component features input, output, and power supply pins. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for offset null, compensation, and enable pin configurations. Ideal for signal conditioning and amplifier circuits.
No detailed pinout data available for AK4385ET.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
AK4385ET is suitable for 6 applications: Professional Digital Audio Mixer, High-Resolution Music Player, Home-Theater Audio Processor, Digital Recording Interface, Broadcast and Studio Monitoring, Digital Audio Interface for Active Speakers.
Professional Digital Audio Mixer
The AK4385ET fits a stereo mixer or digital mixing console because it converts two 24-bit digital channels with an I2S interface while supporting operation up to 192 kHz. Place the converter at the boundary between the digital processing engine and the analog output stage, with the 5 V supply and bypass network implemented as shown in the manufacturer application circuit. Its 108 dB dynamic range supports high-fidelity mixing, while full differential SCF outputs provide a balanced analog path without AC-coupling capacitors in the specified configuration. The design must still account for clock synchronization, signal routing, output loading, and isolation between digital switching activity and the analog outputs.
High-Resolution Music Player
The AK4385ET is suitable for a high-resolution music player that accepts I2S audio and produces a two-channel analog output. Its 24-bit interface and 192 kHz maximum sampling rate align with high-resolution source formats, while the 108 dB dynamic range supports low-noise playback. The converter can sit between the digital audio decoder or streaming engine and a balanced headphone or line-level amplifier. Use the recommended 5 V supply arrangement and follow the datasheet output network. The main design consideration is preserving clock cleanliness and preventing digital routing from coupling into the sensitive analog section.
Home-Theater Audio Processor
The AK4385ET can provide the final stereo DAC stage in a home-theater processor that accepts digital audio over I2S. Two-channel conversion, 24-bit resolution, and a maximum rate of 192 kHz support modern movie, music, and game audio paths, while differential SCF outputs can feed an amplifier through a balanced input. Place the device after the final channel-routing and volume-processing stage, and observe the recommended bypass and output circuitry. Verify that the processor’s I2S clocking matches the permitted operating modes and keep high-speed digital traces separated from the analog output region.
Digital Recording Interface
The AK4385ET is applicable to a monitoring or recording interface that needs a high-quality stereo DAC for headphone or line outputs. Its 24-bit data path and 192 kHz capability suit high-rate monitoring workflows, and the 108 dB dynamic range helps preserve low-level audio detail. The I2S interface allows direct connection to a digital audio engine, provided master-clock and data timing are correctly configured. The analog output should use the manufacturer-recommended differential network and loading. Because this is a DAC rather than a recording ADC, the capture path still requires a separate converter.
Broadcast and Studio Monitoring
The AK4385ET fits broadcast monitoring and studio signal-conversion equipment requiring two-channel, high-resolution digital audio. Its 192 kHz maximum sampling rate supports high-rate studio workflows, while the 108 dB dynamic range and differential SCF outputs suit precision monitoring stages. Use the I2S inputs from the digital processing chain and route the outputs to the monitor amplifier through the recommended network. The implementation should isolate converter clocks and data routing from analog outputs, maintain the specified 5 V operating condition, and preserve a controlled analog ground and power layout.
Digital Audio Interface for Active Speakers
The AK4385ET can convert digital program material into balanced analog signals for powered speakers or an active monitor system. The two-channel architecture supports a stereo output pair, while the full differential SCF outputs avoid the need for AC-coupling capacitors in the intended configuration. Its 24-bit I2S input preserves high-resolution source data, and operation up to 192 kHz supports advanced source formats. The interface must be designed around the manufacturer’s recommended output loading and decoupling. Confirm amplifier input impedance and cable routing so that the converter sees the intended load and maintains signal integrity.
Engineering reference data for AK4385ET — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product |
|---|---|
| Brand | Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM |
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Device Type | Two-channel audio DAC |
| Resolution | 24 bit |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz |
| Dynamic Range | 108 dB |
| Digital Interface | I2S |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Output Configuration | Full differential SCF outputs |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +85°C |
Key Differentiators
- Two-channel high-resolution conversion in one package (vs Single-channel DAC option)
- Supports high-rate digital audio (vs Lower-rate stereo DAC option)
- Differential SCF output architecture (vs Single-ended output implementation)
Design Notes
Separate the I2S data, clock, and control traces from the differential analog outputs. Route the analog signals over a quiet ground plane, keep the output traces short, and avoid running them beneath digital clocks or switching-supply nodes. The AK4385 datasheet pin map and recommended layout should define the exact placement of input, output, supply, and ground pins.
Implement the 5 V supply network and bypass capacitors exactly as shown in the manufacturer recommended application circuit. Place each bypass capacitor close to its intended power pin and provide a low-impedance return path to the device ground. Verify ripple and transient behavior at the converter because clock and digital signals can appear at the supply pins during operation.
Use the manufacturer’s differential-output network and load assumptions for the following amplifier or receiver stage. Full differential SCF outputs remove the need for AC-coupling capacitors in the stated configuration, but incorrect loading can alter frequency response or distortion. Check output amplitude, common-mode behavior, and downstream input impedance before finalizing the analog schematic.
Do not treat a device with a similar resolution and sample rate as a drop-in replacement. A valid substitute must reproduce the AK4385ET’s 16-pin TSSOP pin assignments, I2S timing expectations, 5 V supply arrangement, and differential output behavior. Also confirm clock mode, sample-rate support, and operating-temperature requirements against the complete datasheet before making a production substitution.
Compliance Information
No explicit RoHS, REACH, AEC-Q100, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals declaration was identified for the AK4385ET. Obtain current compliance documentation for the exact orderable part and production configuration.