EPC Power Conversion Corporation (EPC) has launched a 150 W, 8 Ω class D audio amplifier design reference (EPC9106), utilizing a Bridge-Tied-Load (BTL) configuration. This design incorporates four ground half-bridge power output stages, making it highly scalable and upgradeable. The system is built around GaN-based field-effect transistors, which help eliminate or minimize components that could degrade sound quality in traditional Class D amplifiers.
According to Dr. Skip Taylor, co-founder and former CTO of Intersil's D2 Audio, "The power stage using eGaN FETs accurately replicates Class D Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals with high power and exceptional linearity. This high linearity reduces the need for feedback, allowing for superior sound quality—clear midrange, crisp highs, and tight, solid bass."
The EPC9106 demo board features EPC2016 eGaN FETs and Texas Instruments' LM5113 gate drivers, enabling high-performance switching in a compact form factor. Thanks to the fast switching speed of eGaN FETs, the board achieves excellent efficiency, eliminating the need for heat sinks and reducing EMI/EMC emissions. This leads to a more cost-effective and reliable system design.
The power supply module on the EPC9106 demo board integrates a gallium nitride field effect transistor, driver, inductor, and input/output capacitors into a small layout (2.1 mm x 1.6 mm). Despite its compact size, the reference design delivers up to 96% efficiency at 150 W and 8 Ω, and 92% efficiency at 250 W and 4 Ω. This makes it ideal for high-performance audio applications where space and efficiency are critical.
The EPC9106 demo board is available for purchase at $1,338 through North Gold Technologies and Digi-Key, offering engineers and designers a powerful tool to explore the benefits of eGaN technology in audio systems.
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