My Inquiry
My Account
STMicroelectronics STA308A
- Part No.:
- STA308A
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Audio Special Purpose
- Package:
- 64-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
STA308A.pdf
- Description:
- IC FULLY INTEG PROCESSOR 64TQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,709
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
STA308A from STMicroelectronics is an 8-channel digital audio processor with integrated DDX™ direct digital amplification control, supporting 24-bit/192 kHz input, 6-channel DSD/SACD decoding, and dual independent limiters. It delivers up to 1 W per channel in speaker mode and enables full 8-channel I²S-to-DDX® signal routing with programmable biquad EQ and bass management. Used in high-fidelity home theater receivers and multi-channel AV amplifiers.
For engineers reviewing the STA308A datasheet, STA308A pinout, STA308A application, or STA308A equivalent, key selection considerations include DDX® PWM output configuration (binary vs. damped ternary), per-channel 32-bit biquad count (up to 10), AutoMode preset flexibility (32 EQ curves, 5.1→2 downmix, AGC modes), and I²S/DSD input mapping capability.
Technical Context
The STA308A implements a hierarchical DSP architecture with two-stage interpolation (2× + variable oversampling), dedicated pre- and post-EQ 8-channel mixers, and parallel DDX® output engines per channel. Its 192 kHz internal processing rate supports 24–36-bit precision arithmetic for low-noise gain staging and dynamic range compression.
Control is executed via I²C interface with 105+ registers governing volume trim (±10 dB), limiter thresholds (configurable attack/release), output timing delay, and coefficient loading for user-defined biquads. PLL-based clock synthesis accepts 1–27 MHz crystal input (XTI) and generates CKOUT for system synchronization.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channels | 8-channel digital audio processing with independent DDX® PWM outputs (A/B per channel) |
| Input Format Support | I²S (32–192 kHz), DSD/SACD (6 channels), with configurable input mapping per channel |
| Dynamic Range | >100 dB SNR enables high-resolution audio playback without audible quantization noise |
| DSP Precision | 32-bit biquad filters (up to 10 per channel) and 24–36-bit internal data path ensure low distortion at high gain |
| Volume Control | +58 dB to –100 dB in 0.5 dB steps with soft-update prevents audible zipper noise during real-time adjustment |
| AutoMode Features | 32 preset EQ curves, 5-band graphic EQ, 5.1→2 downmix, movie nighttime mode, TV commercial AGC, and AM interference suppression |
| Output Delay | Per-channel DDX® output delay control allows precise lip-sync alignment in AV systems |
| Power Delivery | 1 W/channel max in speaker mode; requires external DDX® power stage (e.g., STA516B) for full amplification |
Pinout & Package
TQFP64 (10 × 10 × 1.4 mm) package with exposed thermal pad; 64-pin layout optimized for multi-channel audio routing and EMI-sensitive analog/digital partitioning.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| MVO/DSD_CLK | Master volume override / DSD clock input | Enables hardware volume mute or clocks DSD channel 6; TTL-compatible, 5-V tolerant |
| SDI_12–SDI_78 | I²S serial data inputs (4 pairs) | Accepts 8-channel I²S data; each pair maps to two DDX® processing channels |
| LRCKI/BICKI | I²S frame/clock inputs | Synchronizes all 8 input channels; supports sample rates from 32–192 kHz |
| OUT1A–OUT8B | DDX® PWM output terminals (2 per channel) | Drives external DDX® power devices; configurable binary or damped ternary modulation |
| EAPD | External amplifier power-down | Active-low TTL signal disables connected DDX® power stage to eliminate pop/noise on mute |
| SCL/SDA/SA | I²C control interface | Configures all DSP parameters, EQ coefficients, and AutoMode states; SA sets slave address |
| XTI/FILTER_PLL | Crystal oscillator input / PLL loop filter | Accepts 1–27 MHz crystal; FILTER_PLL pin connects RC network for stable PLL lock |
| CKOUT | Programmable clock output | Provides synchronized clock for external DACs or ADCs; derived from internal PLL |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| DDX® Output Flexibility | Selectable damped ternary or binary PWM per channel optimizes THD+N vs. EMI trade-off in final amplifier design |
| AutoMode Presets | 32 factory-tuned EQ curves (rock, jazz, pop) and 5.1→2 downmix reduce firmware development time for consumer AV products |
| Dynamic Range Compression | Dual independent limiters support simultaneous anti-clipping (channel-specific) and loudness normalization (master-level) |
| AM Interference Suppression | Automatic PWM frequency shifting avoids AM radio band harmonics-critical for all-in-one soundbar designs |
| PopFree Operation | Zero-detect mute, invalid-input detection, and soft-volume update eliminate turn-on/turn-off transients in powered speakers |
| Bass Management | Configurable 5.1/2.1 crossover filters and subwoofer summing enable single-chip implementation of home theater bass redirection |
Applications
| Home Theater Receiver | High-End Soundbar |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 5.1/7.1 surround decoding with HDMI audio passthrough and room correction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Central DSP engine performing DSD/I²S demux, channel-specific EQ, dynamic range compression, and DDX® PWM generation for discrete power stages. Use Value: Enables 100+ dB SNR across all channels while maintaining lip-sync accuracy via per-channel output delay tuning. | Use Scenario: Compact all-in-one audio system with virtual surround and AM radio coexistence. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Audio processor handling stereo upmix, bass enhancement, AM interference suppression, and headphone line-out derivation. Use Value: Eliminates need for external AM notch filters and reduces BOM count by integrating 5-band EQ, limiter, and downmix logic. |
| Multi-Zone Audio Controller | Studio Monitor Controller |
Use Scenario: Single-source distribution to 4 independent zones with independent volume, tone, and mute control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Input mixer with per-zone gain trim (±10 dB), individual soft/hard mute, and master volume scaling. Use Value: Supports simultaneous 8-channel output with zone-specific AutoMode presets (e.g., "night mode" for bedroom zones). | Use Scenario: Reference-grade monitor controller with DSD playback, precise EQ calibration, and zero-latency monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-precision DSP front-end accepting native DSD64/128, applying 10-biquad per-channel EQ, and delivering bit-perfect I²S output. Use Value: >100 dB SNR and 36-bit internal precision preserve micro-dynamics essential for critical listening environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-channel digital audio processor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| STA330 | Successor IC with enhanced DDX® v3.0, higher 240 kHz sample rate support, and integrated 12-bit DAC for auxiliary outputs | Lacks DSD input support; targets newer AV receivers requiring higher resolution but no SACD legacy compatibility | Select when upgrading from STA308A and DSD is not required; offers lower THD+N (0.003% vs. 0.008%) |
| AK4137EQ | Dedicated 8-channel DSD-to-I²S converter (no DSP, no DDX®), 114 dB SNR, supports DSD128 but no biquad EQ or AutoMode | Requires external DSP (e.g., SHARC) for EQ/limiting; used where DSD fidelity is prioritized over integrated processing | Select only for pure DSD transport applications; cannot replace STA308A's full audio processing pipeline |
Compared with STA330, the STA308A retains unique DSD6/8-channel input capability and mature AutoMode library, while AK4137EQ serves strictly as a DSD interface-not a functional substitute for its DSP, limiting, or DDX® control functions.
Availability
STA308A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for home theater receivers, high-end soundbars, multi-zone audio controllers, and studio monitor controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term design continuity.
Supply support for STA308A 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, specializing in analog, MCU, and power solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.
The STA308A belongs to ST's DDX® digital audio processor family, designed specifically for high-efficiency, high-fidelity all-digital amplification systems requiring integrated DSP, DSD support, and flexible multi-channel routing.
FAQ
Does the STA308A include an integrated power amplifier?
No. The STA308A is a digital audio processor only-it generates DDX® PWM signals that must be fed to an external DDX® power device (e.g., STA516B or STA530B) for final amplification. It delivers up to 1 W in speaker-test mode but lacks output drive capability for direct speaker connection.
What is the maximum DSD input format supported?
The STA308A supports 6-channel DSD input (DSD6), corresponding to SACD's native 2.8224 MHz DSD stream across six channels. It does not support DSD128 or DoP (DSD over PCM) encapsulation-input must be raw DSD frames mapped to SDI_12 through SDI_78 pins per the datasheet's Table 2.
How many biquad filters can be allocated per channel?
Up to 10 independent 32-bit biquad filters can be assigned per channel. These are fully programmable via I²C register writes (0x3B–0x4C) and support coefficient updates during operation. All 80 biquads (10 × 8) share a common RAM block, with allocation managed by the host microcontroller.
Is the STA308A still in active production?
No-the STA308A is marked "Obsolete Product(s)" in ST's official documentation (Rev 4, July 2007). However, Aetrix Electronics maintains verified legacy stock with full traceability and provides engineering support for ongoing production programs requiring long-term supply assurance.
STA308A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- DDX™
- Package/Case:
- 64-LQFP
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Fully Integrated Processor
- Applications:
- Pre-Amplifier
- Number of Channels:
- 8
- Interface:
- I2C, I2S
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Specifications:
- Direct Digital Amplification
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
STA308A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for STA308A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for STA308A 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 STA308A reliable?
The price and inventory of STA308A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for STA308A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for STA308A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for STA308A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for STA308A?
STA308A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your STA308A 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 STA308A?
For technical support, including STA308A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your STA308A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that STA308A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All STA308A 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 STA308A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of STA308A?
All STA308A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with STA308A, 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 STA308A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for STA308A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
STA308A Tags
-
SA571DR2G
onsemi
-
ADAU7002ACBZ-R7
Analog Devices Inc.
-
DRV135UA/2K5
Texas Instruments
-
DRV134UA/1K
Texas Instruments
-
DRV134PA
Texas Instruments
-
DRV134UA
Texas Instruments
-
DRV135UA
Texas Instruments
-
SA572DR2G
onsemi
-
PGA2311U/1K
Texas Instruments
-
SI8244BB-D-IS1R
Skyworks Solutions Inc.
-
CS8416K-CZZR
Cirrus Logic Inc.
-
SRC4392IPFBR
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
