WM8501CGED - 24-Bit 192kHz Stereo Audio DAC | Cirrus Logic
MPN: WM8501CGED ✗ End of Life| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 10 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 100 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 500 | $0 | $0.00 |
| 1,000 | $0 | $0.00 |
WM8501CGED Overview
An audio DAC is a data-conversion IC that transforms digital audio samples into analog voltage signals. In the signal chain, a digital source such as a decoder, computer, CD player, or streaming interface supplies samples to the DAC, which then drives an audio amplifier, headphones, mixer, or line input. The WM8501CGED belongs to the ADC/DAC and data-conversion IC hierarchy, specifically the special-purpose audio DAC class.
The verified specifications identify a stereo DAC, 24-bit resolution, 192kHz operation, DSP and I2S interfaces, analog and digital supply sources, a 2.7V to 5.5V supply range, and a -40°C to 85°C operating-temperature range. The 1.7Vrms line driver is the key analog-output feature listed by the datasheet source. The 14-SOIC package supports conventional surface-mount PCB assembly while exposing the digital control, power, and analog connections required by the converter.
Because the available verified data does not include the complete electrical timing table, pin names, pinout drawing, digital input logic levels, output distortion, dynamic range, channel separation, or recommended application circuit values, those parameters are marked as data needed rather than inferred. The 24-bit and 192kHz ratings should be treated as interface and format capabilities, not as a guarantee of end-to-end audio performance without checking the complete manufacturer documentation and analog implementation.
Typical application domains include consumer audio equipment, compact digital audio systems, powered speakers, sound-bar signal paths, computer audio accessories, and legacy high-resolution playback designs. The I2S interface can connect to a suitable digital audio controller when its clocking and framing requirements match the WM8501CGED. The DSP interface provides an additional digital control path for supported audio-processing configurations, but software and register compatibility must be verified before replacement.
The main design consideration is power and signal integrity. Keep the analog and digital supplies properly decoupled, route high-frequency digital clocks away from the analog output, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended land pattern and component placement when those details are available. This page combines the verified distributor classification, package and interface information, datasheet-link sources, and engineering selection guidance without adding unverified performance claims.
Drop-in alternatives for WM8501CGED — 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 WM8501CGED (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Product Type.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
WM8501CGED/R
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
WM8501CGED
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →WM8960CGEFL/RV
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.9555 / Unit
View Datasheet →WM8501CGED/R
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
WM8501CGED
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →WM8501CGED Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Product Type | Stereo audio digital-to-analog converter (DAC) |
| Manufacturer | Cirrus Logic Inc. |
| MPN | WM8501CGED |
| Resolution | 24 bits |
| Sampling Rate | 192kHz |
| Number of Channels | 2 channels |
| Digital Interface | DSP and I2S |
| Analog Line Output | 1.7Vrms line driver |
| Analog Supply Range | 2.7V to 5.5V |
| Digital Supply | 5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to 85°C |
| Package | 14-SOIC |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
| Lifecycle Status | Obsolete |
WM8501CGED 14-soic Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for WM8501CGED (14-soic 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 WM8501CGED.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
WM8501CGED is suitable for 6 applications: High-Resolution Stereo Audio Player, Powered Speaker Signal Path, Computer Audio Accessory, Digital Audio Decoder Interface, Sound-Bar Preamp, Legacy Audio Equipment Repair.
High-Resolution Stereo Audio Player
The WM8501CGED fits a digital audio player whose source can deliver 24-bit samples at rates up to 192kHz. Its stereo DAC format and DSP/I2S interfaces provide a clear path from a digital decoder to the analog line-output stage. The listed 1.7Vrms line driver can feed a downstream volume-control or amplifier section, although output loading, coupling, and gain structure must be confirmed from the complete datasheet. Because the device is obsolete, this application is most appropriate for repair, legacy product continuation, or designs where the original digital-audio architecture is already proven.
Recommended
Powered Speaker Signal Path
The WM8501CGED can convert a digital stereo source into analog audio for a powered-speaker or compact monitor system. Its two-channel DAC architecture and 24-bit, 192kHz capability are useful when preserving a high-resolution digital feed before power amplification. The listed 1.7Vrms line driver should be evaluated against the amplifier input range to avoid clipping or excessive gain. Place the analog output path away from switching supplies and digital clocks, and confirm the recommended output network before finalizing the speaker board.
Recommended
Computer Audio Accessory
A computer, game console, or digital media accessory can use the WM8501CGED as the final stereo DAC when its digital source supports the required DSP or I2S format and clocking. The 24-bit, 192kHz format provides a clear specification target for high-resolution playback. The 14-SOIC package is convenient for conventional surface-mount assembly, but USB or host-controller integration still requires a separately validated bridge and clock architecture. Because WM8501CGED is obsolete, new USB-audio products should normally use a currently supported DAC.
Recommended
Digital Audio Decoder Interface
The WM8501CGED is suitable for use between a compatible digital audio decoder and an analog output stage when the decoder provides the required DSP or I2S data and timing. The 2.7V to 5.5V analog supply range and separately identified 5V digital supply make supply planning explicit, while the -40°C to 85°C range covers many consumer and industrial environments. The exact I2S format, clock polarity, master/save role, and supported sampling modes are not present in the verified data and must be checked before routing or firmware release.
Recommended
Sound-Bar Preamp
The WM8501CGED can serve in the preamp or source-control section of a sound bar when the product retains a digital audio input and needs a dedicated stereo DAC. The 1.7Vrms line-driver description provides a useful starting point for analog gain planning, but the actual output level depends on supply, load, and the manufacturer’s recommended configuration. Maintain short analog traces, provide local supply bypassing, and separate the digital clock and control lines from the output nodes. For new sound-bar platforms, verify lifecycle availability before committing to this obsolete device.
Recommended
Legacy Audio Equipment Repair
The WM8501CGED is particularly relevant to repair and refurbishment of equipment originally built around the WM8501 stereo DAC. The verified obsolete status makes lifecycle and counterfeit-part risk important considerations, while distributor remnants may still be available. Before installation, compare the exact package marking, pinout, supply arrangement, digital interface, and analog output circuit against the failed board’s schematic. Treat a listing for the same MPN as evidence of catalog identity, not as proof that every supplier’s inventory has been independently tested.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for WM8501CGED — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | WM8501CGED/R | WM8501CGED | WM8960CGEFL/RV | WM8501CGED/R | WM8501CGED |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Cirrus Logic | Cirrus Logic | Cirrus Logic | Cirrus Logic | Cirrus Logic | Wolfson |
| Device Type | Stereo DAC | Stereo DAC family variant | Stereo DAC | Audio codec | Stereo DAC family variant | Stereo DAC |
Key Differentiators
- High-resolution stereo DAC format (vs WM8960CGEFL/RV)
- Explicit digital audio interface support (vs WM8960CGEFL/RV)
- Documented analog supply range (vs WM8501CGED/R)
- Legacy repair identity (vs WM8960CGEFL/RV)
Design Notes
Follow the manufacturer’s 14-SOIC land pattern and pin numbering exactly. The supplied data identifies the package but does not provide the pinout, so do not infer analog, digital, power, or ground assignments from neighboring audio ICs. Confirm pin names and exposed functions against the official datasheet before routing power, clocks, data, and analog outputs.
Plan separate analog and digital supply paths using the verified 2.7V to 5.5V analog range and 5V digital supply. Place local decoupling close to the relevant pins and return analog ground using the manufacturer’s recommended topology. Exact capacitor values, current limits, startup sequencing, and allowable supply ripple are not supplied and must be verified before release.
Keep the DSP and I2S clock/data routing away from the analog line-driver outputs, and keep switching-regulator loops and high-current amplifier paths physically separated from the converter’s analog section. Use short output traces and a controlled return path to reduce switching ripple and digital-clock feedthrough into the audio output.
Do not substitute WM8960CGEFL/RV or another audio IC solely because it is also an audio converter or Cirrus Logic device. The supplied data does not verify identical package, pinout, DAC function, clocking, register map, or supply arrangement. A valid replacement must pass a complete electrical and timing cross-reference, not only a family-name or application-category match.
Compliance Information
The supplied verified data does not include manufacturer declarations for RoHS, REACH, AEC-Q100, lead-free status, halogen-free status, or conflict minerals.
