Grabbing top billing as the most highly integrated stereo audio processor, the MAX5406 provides a simple, de-bounced, push-button interface and packs all the op amps and potentiometers necessary for deploying/controlling standard audio functions. As a result, the device supports balance, volume, treble, bass, bass boost, ambience control, plus cutting-edge multimedia apps without the assistance of a microcontroller. Employing the company's proprietary Smart Wiper technology, the chip intelligently controls wiper-advance rate. Holding down a button for one second advances the wiper at a speed of 4 Hz; holding it down for four seconds advances the wiper at 16 Hz. A mute toggle function sets all wipers to maximum attenuation and returns them to their previous position upon deactivation. Other features include passive filters to reject RF, suppression circuitry for each potentiometer, a shutdown feature that reduces supply current to 1.5 mA, THD of less than 0.01%, output noise of less than 25 mVRMS, and operation from single 2.7V to 5.25V or dual ±2.7V supplies. Available in a 4 mm x 4 mm TQFN, price starts at $2.17 each/1,000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.
