Class-T amplifier

Two Tripath chipset class-T stereo amplifier modules. TA2024 6+6W to the left, TA2020 20+20W to the right

A class-T amplifier is a switching (class-D) audio amplifier, and Class T is a registered trademark for Tripath's amplifier technologies (patent filed on Jun 20, 1996). Similar designs have now been widely adopted by different manufacturers.[1]

It is an implementation of class-D amplifiers, but uses proprietary techniques to control the pulse width modulation to produce what is claimed to be better performance (e.g., lower noise, lower distortion, etc.) than other Class D amplifier designs. Among the publicly disclosed differences is real time control of the switching frequency depending on the input signal and amplified output. One of the amplifiers, the TA2020, was named one of the twenty-five chips that 'shook the world" by the IEEE Spectrum magazine.[1]

The control signals in class-T amplifiers may be computed using digital signal processing or fully analog techniques. Currently available implementations use a loop similar to a higher order Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) (or sigma-delta) modulator, with an internal digital clock to control the sample comparator. The two key aspects of this topology are that (1), feedback is taken directly from the switching node rather than the filtered output, and (2), the higher order loop provides much higher loop gain at high audio frequencies than would be possible in a conventional single pole amplifier.

Blaupunkt PA2150 T-Amp, "Powered by Tripath"

Despite Tripath's claimed increased performance at a price similar to class-D technology, financial difficulties caused Tripath to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on 8 February 2007. Tripath's stock and intellectual property were purchased later that year by Cirrus Logic.

As of 2013 the Tripath based amps are still very popular, especially amongst the DIY audio fraternity as they are cheap to buy, have a reputation for good sound, and are often easy to upgrade with better quality components.

Products and applications

Tripath used to sell the amplifiers as chips, or as chipsets, to be integrated into products by other companies in several countries. For example:

References

External links

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