Monolithic Power Systems Inc. AX5688GRK-Z
- Part No.:
- AX5688GRK-Z
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Category:
- Audio Amplifiers
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
AX5688GRK-Z.pdf
- Description:
- 2-CHANNEL, DIGITAL-INPUT CLASS-D
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
AX5688GRK-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a 2-channel BTL digital Class-D amplifier controller IC with 4 low-latency differential ADCs (115 dB DR), 4 programmable digital loop-filter slices, and 4 CMOS-level PWM outputs. It enables feedback-based digital control loops across loudspeaker nodes, supports I²S/TDM up to 768 kHz, and delivers pop-free transitions via dynamic ramp control - deployed in high-resolution TV soundbars and active loudspeakers.
For engineers reviewing the AX5688GRK-Z datasheet, AX5688GRK-Z pinout, AX5688GRK-Z application, or AX5688GRK-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4-channel ADC latency (<1 MCLK cycle), 115 dB A-weighted SNR, dual-control interface (SPI/I²C), BTL PWM output architecture, and compatibility with multi-vendor power stages for closed-loop Class-D amplification.
Technical Context
The AX5688GRK-Z implements a fully digital, multi-input/multi-output (MIMO) control architecture: four independent low-latency ADCs feed into configurable loop-filter slices, each supporting programmable coefficients and interconnect routing to enable speaker-specific compensation and real-time error suppression. Its digital control loop achieves high gain across 20 Hz–20 kHz, rejecting supply, power-stage, and output-filter distortions.
It integrates dual serial audio interfaces (I²S/TDM) with 16 downstream/8 upstream channels, master clock support from 45.1584–49.152 MHz, and flexible control via SPI (up to 10 MHz) or fast-mode I²C (400 kHz). The 4 PWM outputs drive external half-bridge or full-bridge power stages, with dedicated PSTART/PFAULT_N signals for coordinated power-stage sequencing and fault handling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| ADC Channels | 4 differential low-latency ADCs; enables simultaneous speaker current/voltage sensing and MIMO loop closure behind output filters. |
| Dynamic Range | 115 dB (A-weighted); ensures ultra-low-noise feedback acquisition critical for high-fidelity closed-loop amplification. |
| PWM Outputs | 4 CMOS-level outputs; directly drives external gate drivers in BTL configuration for 2-channel stereo amplification. |
| Audio Interface | I²S/TDM with 32–768 kHz sample rate support; allows integration with high-res streaming sources and multi-zone audio processors. |
| Control Interfaces | SPI (≤10 MHz) and fast-mode I²C (≤400 kHz); enables robust configuration in noise-sensitive audio subsystems with address-selectable multi-chip operation. |
| Loop Latency | <1 MCLK cycle (≤20 ns at 49.152 MHz); guarantees real-time response for stable digital control loops without phase margin erosion. |
| Power Supplies | Dual analog (1.2 V), digital core (1.2 V), I/O (3.3 V), and PWM (3.3 V) rails; isolates noise-sensitive ADC and PWM domains for SNR integrity. |
Pinout & Package
AX5688GRK-Z is housed in a 64-pin QFN package (9 mm × 9 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignment follows MPS standard layout for signal domain separation: analog inputs (IN1P–IN4N, INRP/INRN), 4 PWM outputs (OUT1–OUT4), dual serial audio I/O (SDI/BCLKI/FCLKI, SDO/BCLKO/FCLKO), and dual control interfaces (SPI: CSN_AD0/MOSI_AD1/MISO_SDA/SCK_SCL; I²C: shared SDA/SCL pins).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IN1P–IN4N | Differential analog inputs | Connect to speaker terminals or current-sense resistors for post-filter feedback; full-scale range ±0.52 V common-mode, 4.81 mA differential input current. |
| OUT1–OUT4 | CMOS PWM outputs | Drive external half-bridge gate drivers; 3.3 V logic swing, 13.9 mA sink capability; configured as BTL pairs for 2-channel amplification. |
| SDI/BCLKI/FCLKI | Serial audio receiver inputs | Accept I²S/TDM streams up to 768 kHz frame rate; bit clock max 49.152 MHz; setup/hold times ≤4 ns ensure jitter-tolerant capture. |
| SDO/BCLKO/FCLKO | Serial audio transmitter outputs | Output processed audio or diagnostic data; propagation delay ≤5 ns; supports daisy-chain or multi-device TDM routing. |
| CSN_AD0 / MOSI_AD1 / MISO_SDA / SCK_SCL | Control interface pins | Shared SPI/I²C bus: AD0/AD1 select I²C address; SPI mode uses chip-select (CSN), data-in (MOSI), data-out (MISO), clock (SCK). |
| PSTART / PFAULT_N / PWARN_N | Power stage control/status | Coordinate external power stage startup (PSTART active-high), detect overcurrent/fault (PFAULT_N active-low), and warn of thermal/overvoltage (PWARN_N active-low). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Configurable MIMO interconnect | Programmable routing between any ADC and any loop-filter slice enables custom speaker compensation, cross-talk cancellation, or multi-driver coordination. |
| Pop-free mode transitions | Dynamic ramp control with programmable slew rate eliminates audible transients during mute/unmute or gain changes without external hardware. |
| Feedback after output filter | ADC inputs placed across loudspeaker terminals allow digital correction of power-stage nonlinearity, LC filter distortion, and supply ripple - all within audio band. |
| Multi-vendor power stage compatibility | Standardized PSTART/PFAULT_N/PWARN_N signaling and voltage-level PWM outputs enable interoperability with TI, ST, Infineon, and ON Semi gate drivers. |
| Low-latency auxiliary sensing | ADCs support concurrent use for analog line inputs, power supply monitoring, temperature sensing, or current measurement - no performance trade-off vs. primary feedback path. |
Applications
| TV Soundbar Amplification | Active Studio Monitor |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact, high-SNR soundbar requiring precise bass management and adaptive room correction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digital amplifier controller performing real-time speaker protection, EQ, and closed-loop distortion cancellation using ADC feedback from woofer/tweeter terminals. Use Value: Achieves 115 dB SNR and <−100 dB THD+N while enabling firmware-updatable acoustic tuning - eliminating need for external DSP or analog trim components. |
Use Scenario: Bi-amplified studio monitor with independent LF/HF channel control and thermal derating. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel BTL controller managing separate power stages per driver; ADCs monitor voice-coil current and heatsink temperature for dynamic power limiting. Use Value: Enables sub-20 µs loop latency for instantaneous clipping prevention and consistent transient response across 20 Hz–20 kHz - critical for reference-grade monitoring. |
| Smart Speaker Audio Hub | Automotive Cabin Audio Processor |
Use Scenario: Voice-assistant speaker with far-field mic array and multi-zone playback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central audio controller accepting TDM input from 8 mics, processing beamforming, and driving 2× BTL amps with speaker-specific calibration data. Use Value: Integrates 16 downstream/8 upstream TDM lanes and 4 ADCs to unify acoustic processing and amplification - reducing BOM count and PCB area vs. discrete DSP + DAC + amp solution. |
Use Scenario: Premium automotive head unit delivering personalized audio zones with active noise cancellation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability amplifier controller interfacing with vehicle CAN bus for diagnostics, using ADCs for speaker impedance tracking and thermal modeling. Use Value: Supports ASIL-B functional safety via PFAULT_N/PWARN_N status reporting and lockstep-ready register access - meeting OEM requirements without external watchdog circuitry. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital Class-D amplifier controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AX5688C | Direct successor; adds enhanced EMI reduction, improved ADC linearity (116 dB DR), and extended MCLK tolerance (±100 ppm vs. ±50 ppm). | Required for new designs; AX5688GRK-Z is EOL per MPS notice. | Select AX5688C for production ramps; AX5688GRK-Z only for legacy repair or obsolescence bridging. |
| TAS5825M | TI device with integrated 2×15-W Class-D power stage; lacks external PWM outputs and post-filter ADC feedback capability. | Used in space-constrained consumer audio where integrated FETs suffice; not suitable for high-power or custom power-stage designs. | Choose TAS5825M only if board area and cost outweigh need for >100 W/channel scalability and speaker-terminal feedback. |
Compared with AX5688GRK-Z, AX5688C offers measurable SNR and jitter tolerance improvements for next-gen audio systems, while TAS5825M trades architectural flexibility for integration - making AX5688GRK-Z uniquely suited for high-fidelity, field-upgradeable amplifier platforms requiring external power stage control and precision feedback.
Availability
AX5688GRK-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TV soundbars, active loudspeakers, and high-resolution DAC solutions requiring stable component supply during end-of-life transition planning.
Supply support for AX5688GRK-Z 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
Monolithic Power Systems (MPS) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance power management and audio ICs, headquartered in Kirkland, WA, with global design and support centers.
The AX5688 product line targets high-fidelity digital audio amplification systems demanding ultra-low-latency feedback, multi-channel MIMO control, and seamless integration with third-party power stages - addressing premium consumer and professional audio markets.
FAQ
What is the function of the INRP and INRN pins on AX5688GRK-Z?
INRP and INRN are dedicated differential inputs for a reference ADC used to monitor internal bias voltages or external reference points. They support common-mode input up to 0.52 V and provide 82–84 dB common-mode dynamic range, enabling accurate calibration and drift compensation in precision audio feedback paths.
Can AX5688GRK-Z operate without an external master clock (MCLK)?
No. AX5688GRK-Z requires a stable MCLK input between 45.1584 MHz and 49.152 MHz for internal PLL operation and ADC/PWM timing synchronization. Jitter must be ≤100 ps RMS period jitter to maintain ≥110 dB dynamic range; no internal oscillator or clock recovery is provided.
How does AX5688GRK-Z handle power-stage fault conditions?
It monitors external power stages via PFAULT_N (active-low fault flag) and PWARN_N (active-low warning flag), triggering automatic soft-mute and status register updates. The STATUS pin outputs combined fault/warning/invalid-setting alerts, and registers log fault source (e.g., overcurrent, overtemperature) for diagnostic readback via SPI/I²C.
Is AX5688GRK-Z pin-compatible with AX5688C?
Yes. AX5688C maintains identical 64-pin QFN package, pinout, and power sequencing requirements. Firmware and hardware layouts designed for AX5688GRK-Z can be reused with AX5688C, though register map enhancements require minor software updates for new features like extended EMI control.
What is the maximum supported TDM slot count for AX5688GRK-Z's serial audio interface?
The serial audio interface supports up to 16 downstream slots (input) and 8 upstream slots (output) in TDM mode. Slot width is programmable (16–32 bits), and frame clock frequency ranges from 32 kHz to 768 kHz - enabling configurations such as 8×24-bit channels at 192 kHz or 16×16-bit channels at 96 kHz.
Does AX5688GRK-Z support I²S and left-justified formats simultaneously?
No. The serial audio interface operates in either I²S or TDM mode, selected at boot via strap pins or register configuration. Left-justified format is not supported; only I²S (standard MSB-first, WS-aligned) and TDM (time-division multiplexed) are implemented per the datasheet specification.
What thermal management provisions exist for AX5688GRK-Z in high-power amplifier designs?
AX5688GRK-Z features a 9 mm × 9 mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad (θJA = 23 °C/W, θJC = 1.6 °C/W). Recommended PCB layout includes ≥4 thermal vias under the pad connected to inner-layer ground planes. Junction temperature must remain ≤125 °C; thermal derating begins above 85 °C ambient per datasheet derating curves.
AX5688GRK-Z Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Monolithic Power Systems Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Class D
- Output Type:
- 1-Channel (Mono) or 2-Channel (Stereo)
- Max Output Power x Channels @ Load:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.1V ~ 1.3V
- Features:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-QFN (9x9)
AX5688GRK-Z FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AX5688GRK-Z through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AX5688GRK-Z on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AX5688GRK-Z reliable?
The price and inventory of AX5688GRK-Z are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AX5688GRK-Z is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AX5688GRK-Z?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AX5688GRK-Z transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AX5688GRK-Z?
AX5688GRK-Z orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AX5688GRK-Z order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AX5688GRK-Z?
For technical support, including AX5688GRK-Z datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AX5688GRK-Z requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AX5688GRK-Z is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AX5688GRK-Z products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AX5688GRK-Z meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AX5688GRK-Z?
All AX5688GRK-Z units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AX5688GRK-Z, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AX5688GRK-Z part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AX5688GRK-Z:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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