Hi all,

I’m looking for suggestions for an audio IC/module to replace or improve on a TI TAC5311-style approach as it requires additional hardware (eval boards etc) to be programmed via graphical UI (PC)

The part of the design I’m focused on is simple:

Single-ended electret mic → analog BJT+Emitter+Follower preamp / → ADC / codec / DSP IC

The analog preamp output is already conditioned and can be treated more like a line-level signal than a raw microphone capsule signal.

Approximate input level:

• normal use: around 1 Vrms
• loud / edge cases: possibly 4 Vrms or a little higher

So I’m looking for an ADC/codec/DSP input stage that can either:

• accept a fairly hot line-level input directly
  or
• be easily adapted with simple input scaling while preserving audio quality

I originally looked at TAC5311 as it accepts 5 VRMS single-ended input and has everything I need for audio conditioning, but I’m now checking whether there is a better option.

The ideal device/module would have:

• analog line-level input support
• ADC
• preferably integrated DSP/filtering, or an easy way to feed a separate DSP
• I2S/TDM or similar digital audio output
• graphical PC tuning software for filters/EQ/gain/dynamics
• ability to use the graphical software without needing a proprietary evaluation motherboard/controller

The DSP/tuning features I care about are mainly:

1. high-pass / low-pass filtering
2. parametric EQ
3. Dynamics: compressor, gate, limiter (or close enough capabilities such as AGC, DRC, gain staging etc)

I’m also open to a split solution:

line-level analog input → standalone ADC → external DSP

So if a standalone ADC plus a separate DSP platform is a better or more practical architecture than trying to find one all-in-one codec/DSP, I’d be interested in that too.

What I’m trying to avoid:

• ICs where the GUI tuning software only works with the official EVM/controller hardware
• parts that only support raw mic-level input and clip easily with line-level signals
• solutions where all tuning has to be done manually through undocumented registers

Does anyone know of a practical TAC5311 alternative, or a better architecture for handling a hot line-level analog signal into the digital domain with accessible DSP tuning?

 

if you want to experiment, look at something like a teensy arduino from pjrc
250 Mhz plus, with great audio libraries / gui if needed, great adc / dac
add any required front or back end circuit as nedded.
the TAC5311 and assosiated family of parts just about have the options sown up
analog devices is also worth look .

 

I found ADAU1401 series to be the solution as it accepts line level RMS input and I can build USBi interface myself instead of buying one from the manufacturer for $250. Also FreeDSP seems to have an incredible ecosystem and useful assets for this IC.

 

The TS has proposed quite a few choices without revealing the purpose of the system that is being requested. For most design projects the purpose of the function to be designed has an effect on the actual design. That is also true in this design request. Asking us to recommend a solution to a problem, without revealing the problem, leaves us at quite a disadvantage, greatly reducing the probability of a best answer.

 

After a closer look at the TAC5311 data sheet link, that is one incredible system! Getting a functional design equal to what I see in the data sheet would cost easily as much as a NEW CORVETTE. ( by that I mean it will be quite expensive)

 

The TS has proposed quite a few choices without revealing the purpose of the system that is being requested. For most design projects the purpose of the function to be designed has an effect on the actual design. That is also true in this design request. Asking us to recommend a solution to a problem, without revealing the problem, leaves us at quite a disadvantage, greatly reducing the probability of a best answer.

I didn't share the overall design because I didn't think it was relevant and it is quite complex.

After a closer look at the TAC5311 data sheet link, that is one incredible system! Getting a functional design equal to what I see in the data sheet would cost easily as much as a NEW CORVETTE. ( by that I mean it will be quite expensive)

Agree, it's not the cheapest option out there but it has highly unique properties like the 5-10 VRMS analog input support among other things.

The design overall is part of a development for a future business idea around Automotive Audio and vast improvements in that area at a fraction of the current prices for head units, infotainments units etc.

 

I didn't share the overall design because I didn't think it was relevant and it is quite complex.



Agree, it's not the cheapest option out there but it has highly unique properties like the 5-10 VRMS analog input support among other things.

The design overall is part of a development for a future business idea around Automotive Audio and vast improvements in that area at a fraction of the current prices for head units, infotainments units etc.

Great that we can help you .