The Crystal Semiconductor Products Division of Cirrus Logic Inc. continues its advance into the consumer audio market with the introduction of the new CS4334, the industry's smallest, most cost-effective 24-bit D/A converter. The new Crystal mixed-signal chip supports sample rates up to 96kHz for superior sound quality and compliance with emerging DVD specifications. Manufacturers using the CS4334 in applications such as set-top boxes, PC audio, automotive audio and DVD systems, as well as MiniDisc and portable CD players, can now take advantage of a more integrated solution that enables the trend of digital audio system quality at an analog price.

This announcement underscores Cirrus Logic's position as the only complete audio solution provider in the world that delivers audio A/D converters, audio D/A converters, audio codecs, digital audio interface chips and audio quality DSPs, all with superior sound quality. The company's newest audio addition is delivered in an 8-pin small outline IC package (SOIC) making the CS4334 the industry's smallest delta-sigma audio D/A converter.

"The CS4334 continues Cirrus Logic's drive into the worldwide consumer electronics market," said Eric Broockman, vice president and general manager of Cirrus Logic's Crystal Division. "This product brings Crystal's brand reputation for high performance mixed-signal audio products into the emerging DVD market as well as high volume, price conscience markets such as cable and satellite set-top boxes, laptop computers, portable audio and car audio systems."

The competitive price of the CS4334 does not mean a sacrifice in quality or functionality. The CS4334 family supports multiple digital interface formats from 16-bits to 24-bits and provides 96 dB dynamic range, -88 dB THD+N and 96kHz sample rates. Also, unlike many similar D/A converters, the CS4334 offers an on-chip voltage reference which gives the CS4334 excellent PSRR over the entire audio bandwidth. Additionally, the part is designed to require few external components, further reducing design costs. This is accomplished in part by the implementation of a power transient control circuit that eliminates the need for external mute circuitry which is required by competing DACs to eliminate clicks and pops when the chips power up and power down.

This is certainly a product that will see competition but my crystal ball (pun intended) puts some money on this one as being one of the most successful. Why? Price is one thing, it is down there where it needs to be. Intensity is another, Crystal is determined to be a player in this market and they are going to do whatever they have to do to be there; and they have a lot to offer by being a one-stop superstore for the complete audio chain. There are, maybe, four other significant players in this marketplace and at least two of them can be beaten by Crystal early in the game. How well they do beyond that will be interesting to watch.

The specification numbers on the CS4334 are where they should be, the package is beautiful and there seems to be some external component savings in using this product over some of the competition, including the use of the on-chip reference.The CS4334 is sampling, is in a 8-pin SOIC, and is priced at $1.95 in 1000 piece lots.