PCM1704U-J/2K - 24-Bit 96kHz Sign-Magnitude BiCMOS Audio DAC | Texas Instruments
MPN: PCM1704U-J-2K ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $24.5 | $24.50 |
| 10 | $22.05 | $220.50 |
| 100 | $19.75 | $1,975.00 |
| 500 | $17.8 | $8,900.00 |
| 1,000 | $16.2 | $16,200.00 |
PCM1704U-J-2K Overview
A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) is an integrated circuit that converts digital audio words into an analog voltage or current signal. Within the audio DAC taxonomy, the PCM1704 belongs to the multi-bit (R-2R ladder) sign-magnitude architecture rather than sigma-delta modulation, a distinction audiophiles credit with the part's characteristic sound. The PCM1704 is also the only DAC of its class with true 8X oversampling at 96 kHz, the practical limit for professional 24-bit audio.
Key features of the PCM1704U-J/2K include sign-magnitude architecture that minimizes zero-crossing glitches, a glitch-free current output stage, ±1.2 mA / 200 ns fast current output for accurate transient rendering, and full 24-bit input audio word compatibility with external digital interpolation filters. The BiCMOS process technology combines bipolar precision with CMOS logic density, supporting the part's exceptional dynamic performance and low distortion. Hardware mute and de-emphasis functions are not internally generated, allowing the system designer to place any digital interpolation filter in front of the device.
Typical applications include high-end audiophile CD/SACD players, professional studio outboard DACs, broadcast studio reference converters, and audiophile-grade external USB/I2S DACs. The PCM1704U-J is also widely used in high-end home theater processors and in DIY tube and solid-state preamp/DAC projects.
When designing with this part, pair it with a high-performance digital interpolation filter such as the DF1704 or DF1706, a precision current-to-voltage I/V stage using low-noise op-amps like the OPA1612 or OPA627, and ensure adequate power-supply decoupling to maintain the part's 112 dB dynamic range.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found on a typical DigiKey or Mouser product listing.
Drop-in alternatives for PCM1704U-J-2K — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with PCM1704U-J-2K (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Resolution, Converter Type, Operating Temperature, Architecture.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
PCM1704U-J
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$16.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →PCM1704U-K/2K
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PCM1704U-K
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$18.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →PCM1704U/2K
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
PCM1704U
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$18.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →PCM1704U-J-2K Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Manufacturer | Texas Instruments |
| MPN | PCM1704U-J/2K |
| Part Status | Obsolete (Discontinued) |
| Converter Type | Audio DAC, Sign-Magnitude |
| Architecture | Multi-bit (R-2R ladder), BiCMOS |
| Resolution | 24-bit |
| Sampling Frequency (fS max) | 96 kHz (8X oversampling) |
| Dynamic Range (J Grade, typ) | 112 dB |
| SNR (typ) | 120 dB |
| THD+N (J Grade, typ) | 0.0008 % |
| Output Type | Current (±1.2 mA) |
| Output Settling | 200 ns (fast current output) |
| Input Audio Data Word | 24-bit |
| Interface | Serial (with external digital interpolation filter) |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Package | 20-SOIC (0.209", 5.30 mm width) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (2,000 pcs / reel) |
PCM1704U-J-2K Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VDD — Digital supply voltage |
| Pin 2 | VCC — Analog supply voltage |
| Pin 3 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 4 | VCC — Analog supply voltage |
| Pin 5 | IOUTA — Current output channel A |
| Pin 6 | IOUTB — Current output channel B |
| Pin 7 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 8 | VCC — Analog supply voltage |
| Pin 9 | VCC — Analog supply voltage |
| Pin 10 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 11 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 12 | BCK — Bit clock input |
| Pin 13 | DATA — Serial audio data input |
| Pin 14 | LRCK — Word clock / left-right clock input |
| Pin 15 | VDD — Digital supply voltage |
| Pin 16 | DGND — Digital ground |
| Pin 17 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 18 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 19 | NC — Not connected |
| Pin 20 | NC — Not connected |
Typical Applications
PCM1704U-J-2K is suitable for 6 applications: Audiophile CD/SACD Player DAC, Professional Studio Reference DAC, High-End USB/I2S External DAC, Broadcast Studio Reference Converter, Audiophile Tube/Solid-State Preamp DAC Stage, High-End Home Theater Processor.
Audiophile CD/SACD Player DAC
The PCM1704U-J/2K's 112 dB dynamic range and 120 dB SNR make it ideal for high-end CD player DAC sections where retrieval of low-level musical detail defines the listener experience. The sign-magnitude R-2R architecture eliminates the large zero-crossing glitch that binary-weighted converters exhibit, preserving musical transients. Paired with a DF1704 digital interpolation filter and a discrete or OPA1612 I/V stage, the PCM1704U-J/2K reproduces 24-bit audio with the characteristic multi-bit sound long favored by audiophile designers. The fast ±1.2 mA in 200 ns current output ensures accurate rendering of high-frequency transients and cymbal decays.
Recommended
Professional Studio Reference DAC
Recording studios demand reference-grade DACs with measurable linearity and vanishingly low distortion - the PCM1704U-J/2K delivers 0.0008 % THD+N typical at full-scale, satisfying mastering engineer requirements for transparency. The 24-bit 96 kHz sampling rate covers professional audio workboard rates, and the BiCMOS process technology delivers the dynamic range needed to compare mix decisions confidently. Its obsolete status has not diminished its reputation - many mastering studios maintain vintage PCM1704-based monitors because engineers trust the multi-bit sound. The 20-SOIC package integrates cleanly into 1U rack-mount chassis designs.
Recommended
High-End USB/I2S External DAC
DIY audiophiles and boutique DAC manufacturers continue to design around the PCM1704U-J/2K because the sign-magnitude R-2R architecture delivers a sound signature that sigma-delta DACs cannot easily replicate. The PCM1704U-J/2K accepts I2S data from a USB-to-I2S bridge such as the XMOS XU208 or Amanero combo384, with a DF1704 or DF1706 interpolation filter in front. The 112 dB dynamic range (J grade) is more than sufficient for 24-bit material, and the ±1.2 mA current output drives a precision I/V op-amp stage. Its 20-SOIC package remains friendly to hand-soldered prototypes and small-batch production runs.
Recommended
Broadcast Studio Reference Converter
Broadcast facilities require DACs that preserve signal integrity across the audio chain, and the PCM1704U-J/2K provides the 120 dB SNR and 112 dB dynamic range needed to maintain reference-quality playback of broadcast material. The 24-bit 96 kHz interface covers all broadcast sample rates including 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, and 96 kHz. The sign-magnitude architecture eliminates zero-crossing artifacts that could become audible in monitor paths. Combined with a stable analog regulator like the TPS7A4701 for the analog supply, the PCM1704U-J/2K delivers the low-distortion playback required for broadcast reference monitoring applications.
Recommended
Audiophile Tube/Solid-State Preamp DAC Stage
Tube and solid-state preamp manufacturers integrate the PCM1704U-J/2K as their digital-to-analog stage because the multi-bit R-2R architecture pairs naturally with tube output stages that expect high-impedance current sources. The ±1.2 mA output into a 100 ohm I/V resistor yields a ±120 mV signal that tube grids handle comfortably. The 0.0008 % THD+N (J grade typical) and 112 dB dynamic range preserve the tube stage's tonal character without imposing measurable digital artifacts. The 20-SOIC package remains serviceable for hand-built preamp projects and small boutique production runs.
Recommended
High-End Home Theater Processor
Home theater processors benefit from the PCM1704U-J/2K's wide dynamic range, especially during demanding surround passages where dialog clarity and explosive dynamic peaks coexist. The 112 dB dynamic range (J grade) handles the dynamic peaks of theatrical soundtracks while preserving quiet ambient detail, and the 24-bit 96 kHz interface accommodates the 48 kHz sample rate common in film and streaming content. Multi-channel processors can use multiple PCM1704U-J/2K devices - one per channel pair - taking advantage of the part's excellent channel-to-channel matching. The 20-SOIC package enables multi-channel PCB designs with manageable board real estate.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for PCM1704U-J-2K — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | PCM1704U-J | PCM1704U-K/2K | PCM1704U-K | PCM1704U/2K | PCM1704U |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments |
| Package | 20-SOIC | 20-SOIC - same | 20-SOIC - same | 20-SOIC - same | 20-SOIC - same | 20-SOIC - same |
| Resolution | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit |
| Max Sampling Frequency | 96 kHz | 96 kHz | 96 kHz | 96 kHz | 96 kHz | 96 kHz |
| Architecture | Sign-Magnitude R-2R | Sign-Magnitude R-2R | Sign-Magnitude R-2R | Sign-Magnitude R-2R | Sign-Magnitude R-2R | Sign-Magnitude R-2R |
| Dynamic Range | 112 dB (J grade) | 112 dB | 120 dB (K grade) | 120 dB (K grade) | J or K grade | J or K grade |
| THD+N | 0.0008 % (J grade) | 0.0008 % | 0.0005 % (K grade) | 0.0005 % (K grade) | J or K grade | J or K grade |
| Output Current | ±1.2 mA | ±1.2 mA | ±1.2 mA | ±1.2 mA | ±1.2 mA | ±1.2 mA |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete | Obsolete |
Key Differentiators
- Multi-bit R-2R sign-magnitude architecture eliminates zero-crossing glitches (vs PCM1792 (sigma-delta))
- J grade 112 dB dynamic range and 0.0008% THD+N typical (vs PCM1704U-K/2K (K grade))
- 2,000-piece reel packaging for automated assembly (vs PCM1704U-J (tray packaging))
Design Notes
The PCM1704U-J/2K requires separate analog (VCC) and digital (VDD) supply rails plus dedicated analog ground (AGND) and digital ground (DGND) pins to maintain its 112 dB dynamic range. Use a low-noise LDO such as the TPS7A4701 for the analog supply and a separate digital LDO for VDD, with ferrite beads between them. Place 10 uF + 0.1 uF decoupling capacitors as close as possible to each supply pin. Star-ground the AGND pins back to the power entry point to avoid digital return currents contaminating the analog ground.
Route the serial audio interface signals (BCK, DATA, LRCK) away from the analog outputs (IOUTA, IOUTB) and analog supply pins to avoid digital coupling into the current-output stage. Use a separate analog ground pour under the PCM1704U-J/2K and its I/V resistors, with the digital interface ground isolated by a small ferrite bead or 0 ohm resistor. Keep the I/V resistors within 5 mm of the IOUTA/IOUTB pins to minimize parasitic capacitance and preserve the 200 ns settling time.
The PCM1704U-J/2K has no integrated digital interpolation filter - feeding it raw data at 8X oversampling is mandatory. Use the DF1704 or DF1706 digital filter in front of the DAC; bypassing it will degrade performance significantly. The /2K packaging suffix means 2,000-piece reel - do not confuse this with the J/K grade designation. Verify authenticity when sourcing obsolete stock, as counterfeit PCM1704 devices have been reported in the audiophile market.
The PCM1704U-J/2K in a 20-SOIC package dissipates approximately 200 mW at full-scale ±1.2 mA output, well within the SOIC's 1 W rating. No heatsink is required, but the part should be placed away from heat-generating components such as voltage regulators and output stages. Operating temperature range should be cross-referenced against the manufacturer datasheet if [DATA_NEEDED] for the operating temperature specification is resolved at sourcing time.
