AK4420ET - 24-Bit 192kHz Stereo DAC | AKM | Audio
MPN: AK4420ET ✗ End of LifeAK4420ET Overview
An audio DAC is a data converter that transforms digital PCM samples into an analog voltage suitable for amplification or line-level output. In the electronic-component hierarchy, the AK4420ET belongs to the DAC family, falls within data converters and audio ICs, and ultimately serves as a semiconductor interface between digital audio systems and analog audio signal chains.
The AK4420ET's headline features include 24-bit resolution, operation up to 192 kHz, two audio output channels, and a 2 Vrms output stage. Its integrated output buffer uses a charge pump to develop an internal negative supply rail, supporting a ground-referenced 2 Vrms output. This architecture reduces the external component count compared with a converter that requires discrete output buffering.
AKM's multibit modulator architecture is the basis of the conversion engine. The digital input and analog output sections are combined in a compact package intended for high-resolution audio equipment. The available operating details establish the core signal format, supply requirement, channel count, output level, and package dimensions, while other electrical limits should be confirmed against the manufacturer datasheet before final circuit sign-off.
Typical uses include CD and DVD player digital-to-analog stages, active speaker crossover networks, professional audio equipment, home theater receivers, and other consumer audio products. The 192 kHz capability is useful for high-resolution source material, while the integrated stereo buffer simplifies analog output implementation when the required signal level is close to 2 Vrms.
The main design consideration is analog integration. Keep the digital interface traces compact, provide a stable low-noise 5 V supply, and follow the datasheet's grounding and decoupling layout. The output stage and charge pump can influence power-supply and analog-output behavior, so component placement should preserve short return paths and minimize coupling from switching circuitry into the audio output.
Drop-in alternatives for AK4420ET — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
No drop-in alternatives available for this product.
Request AlternativesAK4420ET Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | Stereo audio digital-to-analog converter |
| Resolution | 24 bit |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Output Configuration | 2-channel stereo |
| Digital Audio Interface | I2S |
| Output Level | 2 Vrms |
| Output Buffer | Integrated stereo 2 Vrms buffer |
| Charge Pump | Internal negative-rail generation |
| Conversion Architecture | Multibit delta-sigma modulator |
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
AK4420ET 16-pin tssop Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for AK4420ET (16-pin tssop 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 AK4420ET.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
AK4420ET is suitable for 6 applications: CD and DVD Player DAC, Home Theater Receiver, Professional Audio Playback, Active Speaker Signal Path, High-Resolution Audio Player, Digital Audio Measurement Equipment.
CD and DVD Player DAC
The AK4420ET fits digital playback equipment that accepts I2S audio and requires a high-resolution stereo analog stage. Its 24-bit resolution and operation up to 192 kHz accommodate high-resolution source formats, while the integrated 2 Vrms buffer reduces the need for a separate analog output stage. Place the converter after the digital decoder, maintain short I2S clock and data routes, and provide the datasheet-specified 5 V bypassing. The principal trade-off is its obsolete lifecycle status, so maintenance designs should confirm supply availability and a supported migration path before committing to new production.
Recommended
Home Theater Receiver
The AK4420ET can provide the stereo conversion stage in a home-theater receiver or surround-sound processor that handles two-channel music or auxiliary playback. The 192 kHz maximum sampling rate supports high-resolution streams, and the 2 Vrms ground-referenced output is suitable for line-level routing into volume-control and amplification circuitry. Its integrated buffer simplifies the output path, but engineers should preserve quiet analog returns, isolate digital clocks from sensitive output nodes, and verify the external channel-select and routing architecture.
Recommended
Professional Audio Playback
The AK4420ET is applicable to professional monitoring and playback equipment requiring a 24-bit, 192 kHz-capable stereo DAC with a defined 2 Vrms output. The integrated buffer can feed an existing balanced-input stage or a downstream volume amplifier without a dedicated external buffer at the specified level. For studio equipment, use controlled grounding and short analog paths, and evaluate clock jitter and digital coupling against the system performance target. Because the converter is obsolete, sustaining an established product also requires a proactive lifecycle and obsolescence plan.
Recommended
Active Speaker Signal Path
The AK4420ET can serve as the digital-to-analog front end of an active speaker when the system accepts I2S audio and requires a predictable 2 Vrms source level. Its stereo outputs can feed gain stages or active crossover electronics, while the integrated buffer removes one conventional analog block. Clock generation must meet the converter's timing requirements, and analog routing should remain short and symmetric between channels. For new speaker platforms, confirm lifecycle availability and test any migration device against output level, noise, distortion, and channel matching before production release.
Recommended
High-Resolution Audio Player
The AK4420ET is suitable for a compact high-resolution player that converts I2S or compatible digital audio into an analog stereo output. Support for 24-bit data at rates up to 192 kHz aligns with the device's intended class, while the integrated 2 Vrms buffer helps reduce board area. A practical implementation requires a low-noise 5 V supply, careful charge-pump return routing, and analog grounding that remains separate from digital return currents. Because the part is obsolete, it is best considered for repair and sustaining designs unless procurement confirms a controlled supply.
Recommended
Digital Audio Measurement Equipment
The AK4420ET can be incorporated into audio test and measurement equipment as the stereo DAC under test or as a reference signal generator. The 192 kHz sampling capability supports wide-band digital audio test vectors, while the 2 Vrms output provides a defined level for subsequent analysis or measurement. The evaluation system should separately examine channel synchronization, output noise, distortion, and clock behavior because those values are not established by the basic 24-bit resolution. Preserve a synchronous digital test path and use instrumentation-grade grounding when measuring small residual signals.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for AK4420ET — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product |
|---|---|
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Brand | Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM |
| Product Type | Stereo audio DAC |
| Resolution | 24 bit |
| Maximum Sampling Rate | 192 kHz |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V |
| Digital Interface | I2S |
| Output Level | 2 Vrms |
| Output Buffer | Integrated stereo output buffer with internal negative rail |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated ground-referenced stereo output buffer (vs AK4420ETP-E2)
- High-resolution stereo conversion capability (vs AK4426VT)
- Established 5 V I2S integration format (vs AK4426VT)
Design Notes
Place the 5 V supply bypass capacitors at the corresponding power pins and connect them to the quiet ground return using the shortest practical traces. The AK4420ET contains a charge pump for its negative output rail, so power and ground routing should prevent converter currents from sharing sensitive analog-output return paths. Follow the manufacturer datasheet's recommended component values and placement rather than substituting generic high-frequency capacitors without checking effective capacitance and bias behavior.
Route I2S data, bit clock, and latch signals together with controlled impedance and avoid crossing them with analog outputs. Keep the digital interface away from the 2 Vrms output nodes and place any digital support components near their associated supply pins. If the source uses a long cable or connector, restore the digital signal locally and provide a clean return path. Confirm clock ratios and timing against the manufacturer datasheet because incorrect master or slave configuration can corrupt the converted audio.
Do not assume that another AK4420-series ordering code is automatically interchangeable. AK4420ETP-E2 and AK4426VT appear in comparison records, but the available information does not establish identical pin assignments, electrical conditions, or output-buffer behavior. For every proposed substitution, verify the 16-pin TSSOP footprint, pin functions, supply requirements, supported interface modes, 2 Vrms output configuration, performance limits, and lifecycle status before authorizing a drop-in replacement.
Maintain symmetry between the left and right analog output paths and keep the stereo outputs away from switching regulators, high-current clock drivers, and digital switching nodes. Ground-referenced 2 Vrms outputs still carry signal energy and can expose inadequate return paths as channel imbalance or crosstalk. Where the board supports split analog and digital ground regions, use the manufacturer's recommended connection strategy and avoid improvised links between ground planes.
Compliance Information
The available product information does not state RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals status. AEC-Q100 qualification is not applicable because the AK4420ET is an audio DAC rather than an automotive-qualified device.