Embedded Files
I have been using low powered amplifiers for some time now, notably the TEA 2025 and the LM 386 dual board set up. The power requirements are modest, running off 9V batteries and low power AC/DC adapters. Sound power levels within the 70 dB to 80 dB are all that I need for my listening at the moment. These circuits are well suited for use in my projects.
Listed here are the amplifier circuits and ICs that I have in possession and some prospective candidates for newer amplifier projects.
The larger chips tend to be more robust: both the 8002A and the PAM 8406 are no longer working, overheating and only putting out noise or silence. The smaller units seem sensitive to handling and connecting.
There are several amplifiers built as integrated circuits and useful for low powered amplifier designs. An output power of 300 mW is sufficient, 1 -2 Watts is perfectly adequate for low volumes - 80 db at 1 meter from speaker.
See this list of chip amplifiers on DIY AUDIO forum.
LM 386 Board
Input Voltage:
Output Voltage:
Current: 10 mA (Idle) to 20 mA (with input) / channel
Power Output:
Sound Quality: Good
11 June 2021
TEA 2025
In use on my PC desktop amplifier
Input Voltage
Input Power
Output Power
Heat Sink required.
BA 5406
Stereo amplifier used in PC speakers
Input Voltage 5 V
Input Power
Output Power 3W to 5 W
This IC was part of a PC speaker unit that was not working. Replacement was available locally for the equivalent of $1.
No image available
8002A
Stereo amplifier used in PC speakers
Input Voltage: 2.2 to 5 V
Input Power:
Output Power: 1.5 to 2 W (see below)
Used to power PC speakers for some time before the unit burned out. Now it just heats up.
The data sheet on the 8002A specifies 1.2 to 2W with an input voltage of 2.2V to 5V (per side)
Power output at 5.0V, 10% THD+N, 4Ω 2.0 W (typ.)
Power output at 5.0V, 1% THD+N, 8Ω 1.5 W (typ.)
2.2V – 5.5V operation
https://datasheetspdf.com/pdf/944786/ETC/8002/1
PAM8406
The PAM 8406 is an amplifier on a chip. The IC is sensitive to reverse connections, and the one I have is no longer working.
Recommended Chip Amplifiers
Johns Audio Tech, a YouTube channel, recommends some audio ICs. I list here the low powered ICs that he mentions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9wsxAccwM8
TDA 7267 - Supply voltage +4.5 ... +18 VDC, Output Current 1.5 A, Output power 2 W Mono
DIY Audio Post
TDA7053 Input Voltage 3- 18 V, Power Output 1.2W x 2
TDA 8542 2.2 -18V THD = 10%; RL=8Ω; VCC= 3.3 V 0.45
TDA 7312: 6V
https://datasheetspdf.com/pdf/378813/STMicroelectronics/TDA7312/1
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse