STMicroelectronics LM833N

Overview

LM833N from STMicroelectronics is a dual low-noise operational amplifier in an 8-pin DIP package, designed for high-fidelity audio signal conditioning. It delivers 4.5 nV/√Hz input voltage noise, 15 MHz gain bandwidth product, 7 V/µs slew rate, 0.002% THD, and ±12 V common-mode input range - enabling clean amplification in preamp and active filter stages of consumer and professional audio equipment.

For engineers reviewing the LM833N datasheet, LM833N pinout, LM833N application, or LM833N equivalent, key selection criteria include input noise density, distortion at 1 kHz, phase margin stability under capacitive loads, supply voltage range (±2.5 V to ±15 V), and dual-channel crosstalk (120 dB).

Technical Context

The LM833N employs a bipolar input stage with PNP differential pairs optimized for low voltage noise and wide common-mode range. Its internal compensation ensures unconditional stability with ≥60° phase margin at unity gain and supports closed-loop gains ≥5 without external compensation.

It operates across –40°C to +105°C with rail-to-rail output swing capability limited by load (±13.7 V into 2 kΩ) and maintains <0.5 pA/√Hz input current noise - making it suitable for high-impedance sensor interfaces and low-distortion audio paths where DC precision and AC fidelity are co-required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM833N is housed in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (DIP8) with through-hole mounting and 2.54 mm lead pitch. The package complies with ECOPACK® environmental specifications and supports standard wave-soldering processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual low-noise op-amp applications.

Compared with NE5532AP and OPA2134PA, the LM833N offers the optimal balance of low noise, high slew rate, and robust bipolar input stage for mid-to-high-end audio preamplification - especially where cost, thermal stability, and ±15 V operation are prioritized over FET-input ultra-high Z or rail-to-rail output.

Availability

LM833N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for professional audio mixer input stages, Hi-Fi CD player analog output buffers, active crossover networks, and studio monitor tone control circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for LM833N 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, delivering silicon solutions for smart driving, power management, and analog/mixed-signal applications since 1987.

The LM833 belongs to ST's precision analog op-amp product line, engineered specifically for high-fidelity audio signal chains where low noise, low distortion, and thermal stability across extended temperature ranges are essential design requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended supply voltage for continuous operation of the LM833N?

The LM833N is rated for continuous operation with supply voltages from ±2.5 V to ±15 V (or +36 V single supply). Absolute maximum ratings allow ±18 V, but sustained operation above ±15 V risks exceeding junction temperature limits and degrading long-term reliability - ST specifies ±15 V as the maximum recommended operating condition.

Can the LM833N drive 600 Ω professional audio loads directly?

Yes - the LM833N delivers ±10 V output swing into 600 Ω (per Figure 3 in datasheet), supporting standard professional line-level (+24 dBu) signals. However, sustained 600 Ω loading increases power dissipation and may reduce thermal margin; for continuous full-power operation, heatsinking or current limiting is advised.

Does the LM833N require external compensation for unity-gain stable operation?

No - the LM833N is internally compensated for unity-gain stability, with guaranteed ≥60° phase margin at AV = 1 and 2 kΩ load. External compensation is unnecessary for standard inverting/non-inverting configurations, though may be added for specialized filter topologies demanding tighter phase control.

How does the LM833N's input stage architecture affect its performance with high-impedance sources?

The LM833N uses a PNP bipolar input stage with ~300–1000 nA input bias current. This makes it unsuitable for sources >100 kΩ without significant DC offset error; for high-Z sensors or passive tone controls, a FET-input op-amp like OPA2134PA is preferred - but the LM833N excels in low-Z audio paths where its low voltage noise dominates performance.