Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AKD5574

Overview

AK5574 from Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) is a 4-channel, 32-bit delta-sigma analog-to-digital converter optimized for high-fidelity digital audio systems. It delivers 121 dB dynamic range, supports 8–768 kHz sampling rates, and integrates selectable digital filters and DSD output up to 11.2 MHz - enabling use in professional multi-channel recorders and studio-grade mixers.

For engineers reviewing the AK5574 datasheet, AK5574 pinout, AK5574 application, or AK5574 equivalent, this device is selected for ultra-low-noise audio acquisition where channel summation (4-to-1/4-to-2 modes), TDM interface scalability, and dual-mode PCM/DSD operation are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The AK5574 implements four independent delta-sigma modulators with decimation filters, programmable high-pass filtering, and configurable channel summation logic that improves SNR by averaging correlated inputs. Its digital core supports master/slave operation, I²C/3-wire control, and flexible power management via PW0–PW2 pins.

It features dual-domain output capability: PCM mode (24/32-bit, I²S/TDM) and native DSD mode (DSD64/128/256), with dedicated DSD clock (DCLK) and data pins (DSDOL1/DSDOR1/etc.). TDM cascade support includes TDM512 (fs=48 kHz), TDM256 (fs=96 kHz), and TDM126 (fs=192 kHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AK5574 is housed in a 48-pin QFN package (7 mm × 7 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. The pad must be connected to ground or left open per layout guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-resolution audio ADC applications.

Compared with AK5574, AK5572EN offers half the channel count and no DSD, making it unsuitable for 4-channel DSD recorders; CS5368-KZZ provides more channels but sacrifices 8 dB DR and DSD compatibility - AK5574 remains optimal for studio-grade 4-channel DSD acquisition where dynamic range and format flexibility are non-negotiable.

Availability

AK5574 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for professional audio equipment, studio recording interfaces, and high-fidelity DSD playback systems requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for AK5574 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 for audio, sensor, and power applications.

The AK557x series was designed specifically for ultra-low-noise, multi-channel digital audio acquisition - targeting professional recording, broadcast, and high-end consumer audio where 120+ dB DR and flexible digital interface options are essential.

FAQ

What sampling rates does the AK5574 support?

The AK5574 supports sampling rates from 8 kHz to 768 kHz in PCM mode, and DSD output at 2.8224 MHz (DSD64), 5.6448 MHz (DSD128), and 11.2896 MHz (DSD256). This wide range accommodates everything from voice-band telephony to ultra-high-resolution DSD mastering, with all rates supported across its four differential input channels.

How does channel summation improve performance in the AK5574?

Channel summation in the AK5574 averages data from multiple ADC channels to reduce uncorrelated noise: 4-to-2 mode improves dynamic range to 124 dB, and 4-to-1 mode achieves 127 dB. This is implemented in hardware, requiring no DSP resources, and is especially valuable in microphone array beamforming or stereo downmixing where signal correlation is high.

Does the AK5574 require external anti-aliasing filters?

No - the AK5574 integrates digital decimation filters with four selectable LPF characteristics (sharp/slow roll-off, short-delay variants), eliminating the need for external analog anti-aliasing filters. Its internal filters provide ≥85 dB stopband attenuation and defined passband flatness, meeting professional audio requirements without added passive components.

What power supply configurations does the AK5574 support?

The AK5574 supports dual digital supply schemes: with LDO enabled (LDOE = "H"), TVDD = 3.0–3.6 V powers I/O buffers while VDD18 is unused; with LDO disabled (LDOE = "L"), TVDD = 1.7–1.98 V and VDD18 = 1.7–1.98 V independently power I/O and core logic. AVDD remains fixed at 4.75–5.25 V for analog circuitry in both cases.

Can the AK5574 operate in both I²C and 3-wire serial control modes?

Yes - the AK5574 supports both I²C and 3-wire serial control via hardware pin configuration (I2C and PSN pins). This allows designers to select the interface at boot time without firmware changes, enabling flexible reuse of the same PCB across products using different host controller architectures - such as ARM-based SoCs (I²C) or FPGA-based systems (3-wire).