Overview
The SSM2018PZ, produced by Analog Devices Inc., is a trimless voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) designed for high-performance audio applications. It is part of the Frey Operational Voltage Controlled Element (OVCE) topology, which offers flexibility in designing volume control systems. The SSM2018PZ is notable for its trimless operation, achieved through laser trimming for gain core symmetry and offset, making it the first professional audio quality VCA to eliminate the need for external trimming. This device combines the low noise of Class AB topologies with the low distortion of Class A circuits, providing an unprecedented level of sonic transparency.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Range | 117 dB | |
| Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N) | 0.006% (typical at 1 kHz, unity gain) | |
| Gain Range | −100 dB to +40 dB (140 dB range) | |
| Input Type | Differential inputs | |
| Output Type | Complementary gain outputs | |
| Control Port | Buffered control port, high impedance | |
| Temperature Range | −40°C to +85°C | |
| Package Type | 16-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package (PDIP) |
Key Features
- No external trimming required due to laser trimming for gain core symmetry and offset.
- High dynamic range of 117 dB.
- Low THD+N of 0.006% (typical at 1 kHz, unity gain).
- Wide gain range of −100 dB to +40 dB (140 dB range).
- Differential inputs and complementary gain outputs.
- Buffered control port with high impedance.
- Internal current-to-voltage converter, eliminating the need for external active components.
- Low external parts count and low cost.
- Adaptive compensation scheme adjusting the optimum compensation level for a given gain.
Applications
The SSM2018PZ is suitable for various high-performance audio applications, including professional audio equipment, audio mixing consoles, and any system requiring precise volume control with minimal distortion. It is also used in voltage-controlled panner (VCP) circuits and other audio processing systems where high fidelity and dynamic range are critical.
Q & A
- What is the dynamic range of the SSM2018PZ?
The dynamic range of the SSM2018PZ is 117 dB.
- What is the typical THD+N of the SSM2018PZ at 1 kHz and unity gain?
The typical THD+N is 0.006% at 1 kHz and unity gain.
- What is the gain range of the SSM2018PZ?
The gain range is −100 dB to +40 dB, which is a total of 140 dB.
- Does the SSM2018PZ require external trimming?
No, the SSM2018PZ does not require external trimming due to its laser-trimmed gain core symmetry and offset.
- What type of inputs and outputs does the SSM2018PZ have?
The SSM2018PZ has differential inputs and complementary gain outputs.
- What is the temperature range for the SSM2018PZ?
The SSM2018PZ is guaranteed for operation over the extended industrial temperature range of −40°C to +85°C.
- What type of package is the SSM2018PZ available in?
The SSM2018PZ is available in a 16-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package (PDIP).
- Does the SSM2018PZ have an internal current-to-voltage converter?
Yes, the SSM2018PZ has an internal current-to-voltage converter, eliminating the need for external active components.
- What compensation scheme does the SSM2018PZ use?
The SSM2018PZ uses an adaptive compensation scheme that adjusts the optimum compensation level for a given gain.
- What are some typical applications of the SSM2018PZ?
The SSM2018PZ is typically used in professional audio equipment, audio mixing consoles, and other high-performance audio applications where precise volume control and minimal distortion are critical.
