Wolfson Microelectronics has launched the WM8741, a new ultra high performance stereo DAC (digital analogue converter) for high-end audio applications. Combining high performance, Wolfson's out-of-band noise and linearity, and a combination of programmable advanced digital filters, the WM8741 creates a more natural "analogue feel" sound.

Capable of delivering 128dB SNR (mono), the WM8741 can be configured to meet the performance requirements of demanding applications, by tailoring the audio filtering to the required listening experience. The WM8741's set of advanced digital filter options provide a high degree of control over the many parameters which affect the audio output, allowing users the flexibility to choose many different characteristics; group delay, phase and latency, impulse response and transition band roll off. Such features and performance are suitable for any high-end audio application requiring high fidelity audio, such as high end home audio, professional recording and studio equipment.

With its low order modulator and multi-bit DAC architecture, the WM8741 achieves low out of band noise and high linearity to also improve sound quality. The WM8741 is a complete differential stereo audio DAC system with a range of audio interface options for both SACD and CD playback. The system includes a dithered digital interpolation filter, fine resolution volume control and digital enable de-emphasis, as well as a multi-bit sigma delta modulator and switched capacitor multi-bit stage with differential voltage outputs.

The WM8741 is the next generation of Wolfson's popular WM8740 DAC and can be used as a drop-in replacement for the WM8740 in some PCM mode applications, helping to minimise time to market for certain designs.