THAT Corporation Introduces Low-Noise Digital Gain Controller for High-Quality Audio Performance

THAT5173 IC delivers 0dB to 60dB gain in 3dB steps, accepts up to +27.5dBu

Milford, Mass. – THAT Corporation, a leading provider of high-quality audio IC technologies, today announced the latest addition to its best-in-class IC product line — the THAT5173 digital gain controller, a cost-effective, high-quality solution for digitally-controlled audio preamplifier applications.

Accepting full pro-audio signal levels up to +27.5dBu without an input pad, the 5173 maintains exceptional performance over a wide range of gains and signal levels. Thanks to its advanced design and integrated DC servo amplifier, the 5173 provides click-less digital gain control for differential analog current-feedback preamplifiers. The small 5mm x 5mm 5173 controls gain from 0dB to 60dB in 3dB steps, with low noise and distortion.

The 5173 is designed to operate seamlessly with the THAT1570 high performance current-feedback amplifier, THAT’s state-of-the-art analog differential microphone preamp. In combination with the 1570, the 5173 operates with supplies from ±5V to ±17V. Its differential output is ideal for connection to high-performance, differential-input A/D converters.

“The 5173 is the first significant extension to our existing line of digitally controllable preamplifiers,” said Les Tyler, President, THAT Corporation. “Customers who require the ultimate in performance will select the 5171/1570 combination, while those who are more cost-conscious will find the 5173/1570 strikes an appropriate balance between cost and performance. 3dB steps are appropriate for many mic preamp applications, and by accepting full pro audio levels without a pad, the 5173 saves space over other approaches.”

The THAT5173 digital gain controller is targeted for high performance digitally-controlled preamplifiers, either as standalone products, or within audio mixing consoles, PC-audio breakout boxes, and instrumentation amplifiers. The IC comes in a QFN24 package. It features a wide gain range of 0 to 60dB in 3dB steps, a supply range of ±5V to ±17V, an output and input swing of up to +27.5dBu (± 17V supply) and a low 1kHz THD under 0.001% for gains up to 42dB.

About THAT Corporation
THAT Corporation, founded in 1989, designs and sells high-performance analog integrated circuits for professional audio manufacturers. THAT’s ICs include analog input and output stages, digitally controlled low-noise preamplifiers, Analog Engines® and its original line of voltage-controlled amplifiers (VCAs) – all used throughout the pro audio industry. The company also licenses patents, trademarks, and other intellectual property to the TV broadcast and reception industries. Licensed products include the dbx-tv® Total™ series of audio enhancement technology and digital implementations of legacy TV audio receiver standards. The company is headquartered in Milford, Massachusetts, with offices in Milpitas, California.

For more information, contact:
THAT Corporation, 45 Sumner Street, Milford, MA 01757-1656 , USA
Telephone: +1 (508) 478-9200; Fax +1 (508) 478-0990
Email: More Information

Editorial Contact:
Ken Nevard, IC Marketing Manager
Tel: +1 (508) 478-9200 x108
Email: Editorial Contact