Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AK4528VF

Overview

AK4528VF from Asahi Kasei is a high-performance 24-bit, 2-channel audio CODEC optimized for 96kHz digital audio systems. It integrates dual-bit ADC with 64× oversampling and advanced multi-bit DAC with 128× oversampling, delivering S/(N+D) of 94dB (ADC/DAC), dynamic range of 108dB (ADC) and 110dB (DAC), and differential analog I/O in a 28-pin VSOP package. It serves as the core audio interface in professional recording equipment and high-fidelity digital mixers.

For engineers reviewing the AK4528VF datasheet, AK4528VF pinout, AK4528VF application, or AK4528VF equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed audio interface timing modes (I²S/MSB-justified), real-world jitter tolerance performance, and direct alternative part comparisons - all grounded in the official MS0011-E-01 datasheet and Asahi Kasei's functional specifications.

Technical Context

The AK4528VF implements separate enhanced dual-bit ADC and advanced multi-bit DAC architectures, each with switched-capacitor filtering (SCF) to suppress out-of-band noise and improve jitter immunity. Its digital filters feature ±0.005dB passband ripple and ≥75dB stopband attenuation, supporting sampling rates up to 96kHz with double-speed mode (DFS) and de-emphasis for 32/44.1/48kHz.

It supports both serial and parallel control modes via the P/S pin, with register-based configuration of clock dividers (256fs–1024fs), audio data formats (5 serial modes, 2 parallel modes), and channel-specific digital HPF, soft mute, and 128-level output attenuation (OATT). All analog I/O is fully differential, referenced to VCOM = VA/2.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AK4528VF uses a 28-pin Very Small Outline Package (VSOP) with 0.65mm pitch, rated for −40°C to +85°C operation. The package supports surface-mount assembly and thermal dissipation suitable for compact audio subsystems.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stereo audio CODEC applications.

Compared with AK4524VN and CS4344-KSZ, AK4528VF uniquely combines matched 24-bit dual-channel ADC/DAC, differential I/O, SCF-enhanced jitter immunity, and integrated digital features (HPF, de-emphasis, soft mute) in one VSOP package - making it the only option for compact, high-fidelity, full-duplex audio subsystems requiring 96kHz readiness.

Availability

AK4528VF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for professional audio interfaces, broadcast mixing consoles, high-resolution CD transports, and studio monitor controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for AK4528VF includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) is a Japanese semiconductor company specializing in high-precision analog and mixed-signal ICs, particularly for audio, sensor, and power management applications.

The AK4528VF belongs to AKM's professional audio CODEC product line, engineered specifically for 96kHz digital recording systems demanding ultra-low noise, high dynamic range, and robust jitter tolerance in compact form factors.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported sampling rate for AK4528VF?

The AK4528VF supports sampling rates up to 96kHz in double-speed mode (DFS = "H"), with master clock options ranging from 256fs to 1024fs. At fs = 96kHz, the device achieves 92dB S/(N+D) (ADC) and 93dB S/(N+D) (DAC), maintaining high fidelity across the extended bandwidth required for professional audio applications. AK4528VF's digital filters scale proportionally with fs to preserve passband integrity.

Does AK4528VF support I²S interface mode?

Yes, AK4528VF supports I²S mode in both serial and parallel configurations. In serial mode, I²S is enabled via DIF[2:0] = 011 (Mode 3); in parallel mode, it is selected by pulling DIF pin high. The device outputs MSB-first, two's complement data with LRCK polarity L/H and BICK ≥ 48fs, fully compliant with JEDEC-standard I²S timing requirements as defined in the MS0011-E-01 datasheet.

How does the digital high-pass filter (HPF) operate in AK4528VF?

The AK4528VF includes a programmable digital HPF per channel with a default cutoff of 0.9Hz at fs = 44.1kHz, scaling linearly with sampling rate. Enabled via HPFL/HPFR bits in Register 03H, it cancels DC offset in the digital domain without analog components. The filter can be disabled independently per channel, and its effect is applied post-ADC decimation but pre-output register - ensuring clean DC-free data for downstream processing. AK4528VF's HPF introduces no phase distortion in the audio band.

What is the purpose of the VCOM pin on AK4528VF?

The VCOM pin on AK4528VF outputs VA/2 (typically 2.5V with 5V supply) and serves as the common-mode bias voltage for both differential analog inputs (AINL±/AINR±) and outputs (AOUTL±/AOUTR±). This internal reference eliminates the need for external bias networks, simplifies PCB layout, and ensures optimal common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) when interfacing with fully differential op-amps or transformers. VCOM must not be loaded beyond 10µA to maintain accuracy.

Can AK4528VF operate with separate 3V and 5V supplies?

Yes, AK4528VF supports dual-supply operation: VA and VD are rated for 4.75–5.25V (analog/digital core), while VT (output buffer supply) accepts 2.7–5.25V - enabling direct connection to a 3V rail for lower-voltage analog output stages. The 3V-compatible I/F pin (VT) allows interfacing with 3V logic without level shifters, and the datasheet specifies that VA and VD must be powered simultaneously or VA first to ensure proper reset sequencing. AK4528VF's absolute max rating for VT is 6.0V.