It's quite common for high-performance vehicles to suffer from subpar wheels and tires, which can significantly impact the overall performance of the car. When this happens, the engine has to work harder to compensate for the inefficiencies of the wheels and tires, ultimately affecting the entire system's efficiency and driving experience.
The same principle applies to audio systems—especially when it comes to selecting amplifiers for high-fidelity speakers. For years, AB-class amplifiers were the go-to choice for HD audio due to their clean sound and reliability. However, the landscape is changing.
Class D amplifiers used to be seen as inferior for high-resolution audio because they couldn’t meet all the technical requirements. But with recent advancements, this perception is shifting dramatically.
High-definition or high-resolution audio refers to audio that exceeds the quality of a standard CD, typically featuring more than 16 bits of resolution and a sampling rate above 44.1kHz. As shown in Figure 1, these formats offer greater dynamic range and bandwidth, delivering a more immersive listening experience.
Figure 1: Dynamic range and bandwidth of some audio formats
In high-definition audio systems, the digital front end includes a 32-bit audio data path, a sampling rate of at least 96kHz, and a 24-bit low-noise DAC. These components improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and dynamic range (DR), allowing even the softest sounds to be heard clearly without distortion. A higher sampling rate also expands the frequency bandwidth beyond human hearing limits, enabling more accurate sound reproduction.
At the back end, the audio amplifier plays a crucial role in ensuring both performance and safety. Modern amplifiers incorporate various algorithms like equalization, dynamic range control, and spatial positioning to enhance the listening experience. However, even with these features, the amplifier itself must still meet strict HD audio standards, such as:
SNR and DR > 97dB
THD + N < -80dB
Bandwidth > 22kHz
High-definition amplifiers combine these capabilities with smart algorithms to create a balanced system. This means engineers don’t have to rely on heavy digital processing to compensate for weak amplification. After all, high-quality analog amplifiers are hard to replace, but modern Class D amplifiers are now capable of matching or even surpassing them with simpler and more cost-effective digital support.
Earlier Class D amplifiers had a total harmonic distortion of around 0.03% (-70dB), while similar AB-class amplifiers achieved 0.005% (-86dB). As shown in Figure 2, this was a significant gap. However, with the latest Class D models like TI’s TPA3251D2, things have changed. Despite their high efficiency and reduced heat output, Class D amplifiers were once overlooked for HD audio. Now, they’re proving themselves as serious contenders.
Figure 2: High power AB level total harmonic distortion and power performance comparison
Figure 3: TPA3251D2 total harmonic distortion + noise and power performance comparison
TI’s latest Class D amplifiers, such as the TPA3251D2, work seamlessly with digital engines to deliver superior audio quality. They provide a THD + N of just 0.002% (-94dB), a SNR of 100dB, and a bandwidth of 100kHz, all while delivering over 70W of power. These amplifiers are compatible with ultra-low noise systems and support sampling rates up to 192kHz. Plus, built-in protection features ensure safe operation for high-resolution audio.
The TIDA-00874 reference design, shown in Figure 4, demonstrates how the TPA3251D2 works in harmony with a digital engine. By pairing the PCM5242 DAC with the TPA3251D2, it supports multiple digital inputs at up to 192kHz, enhancing the overall audio experience.
Figure 4: TIDA-00874 equipped with TPA3251D2 and PCM5242
Just a decade ago, CDs were considered the pinnacle of audio quality. Today, audiophiles laugh at the 16-bit limitation. With rapid improvements in sound quality, the market is flooded with better options. Similarly, Class D amplifiers used to be dismissed, but now they're gaining respect. Take the TPA3251D2, for example. It delivers high-definition audio and was showcased at CES 2016, leaving the audience amazed by its sound.
Is there a component in your system that enhances your audio quality? In this article, we've highlighted the TPA3251D2 as an example. Other models in the same series include the TPA3250D2 and TPA3255. Have you ever used these devices or other Class D amplifiers? We’d love to hear your experiences.
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