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PCM56: Audio quality of TI BB PCM56P DAC grades

Kodi Man
Prodigy 30 points
Part Number: PCM56

Hi, What are the quality grade models of TI BB PCM56P audio DAC? 

The grades of none, J, K L, etc? 

What are the differences in quality among the grades? 

What grade of PCM56P has the best quality internal trimming (the best sound quality)? 

Thanks

  • 0
    TI__Guru 53573 points
    Hi Kodi,

    The PCM56 was trimmed in factory for maximum performance, but due to variations in each device, some had different worst-case minimum performance. After the devices are trimmed, they were 'binned' in different groups based on their final performance. Highest performing were PCM56P-K, then PCM56P-J, then PCM56U/PCM56P, and finally the lowest were PCM56P-L. You can see the differences of the grades in the product datasheet, primarily in THD+N, as shown in the specification table.

    As far as which one sounds the best - that is pretty objective. Arguably, the device with the lowest THD+N specification sounds has the best performance (-K). Though it should be noted that only the PCM56U is available from TI's authorized distributors.

    Thanks,
    Paul
  • 0 in reply to Paul_Frost
    Prodigy 30 points

    Hi, Paul, Thanks for your prompt and informative reply. There are PCM56P-K DAC chips for sale on ebay with markings of Japan or Korea, etc. Your intuition or guess of which version of PCM56P-K is best sound quality? Much appreciated. You are the best. Thanks!

  • 0 in reply to Kodi Man
    TI__Guru 53573 points
    Hi Kodi,

    I believe these devices came from the same fab, but were just packaged at different locations. Assuming these are authentic, then they should have passed the same testing requirements. My guess is that the one marked 'Japan' is newer, if that is worth anything.

    Goodluck,
    Paul
  • 0 in reply to Paul_Frost
    Prodigy 30 points
    Paul, You are excellent. Much appreciated. Thanks!