STMicroelectronics STA308A13TR

Overview

STA308A13TR from STMicroelectronics is an 8-channel digital audio processor with integrated DDX™ direct digital amplification control, supporting 24-bit/192 kHz PCM and 6-channel DSD/SACD inputs, >100 dB SNR, and per-channel 32-bit biquad EQ. It serves as the DSP core in high-fidelity multi-channel audio systems-e.g., AV receivers and premium soundbars-driving external DDX power stages.

For engineers reviewing the STA308A13TR datasheet, STA308A13TR pinout, STA308A13TR application, or STA308A13TR equivalent, key selection criteria include DDX PWM output configuration (ternary/binary), I²C programmable AutoMode presets (e.g., movie nighttime listening, 5.1-to-2 downmix), and channel-specific limiter/compressor setup with independent attack/release thresholds.

Technical Context

The STA308A13TR implements a fully digital signal path with dual independent limiters, 10 user-programmable biquads per channel, and selectable 32–192 kHz input sampling. Its internal 192 kHz/36-bit processing engine supports pre- and post-EQ 8-channel mixing, dynamic range compression, and AM interference suppression via frequency-shifting PWM outputs.

It integrates dedicated hardware blocks for bass/treble tone control, 5-band graphic EQ, 32 preset curves (rock/jazz/pop), and automatic zero-detect mute. The device uses a PLL-based clock system with XTI crystal input and CKOUT clock output, and supports I²C register-level configuration of all DSP functions including channel mapping, volume trim (±10 dB), and soft/hard mute.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STA308A13TR is housed in a TQFP64 (10 × 10 × 1.4 mm) package with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are validated per ST's official datasheet Rev 4 (July 2007), including dual PWM outputs per channel (A/B), I²C interface (SCL/SDA), DSD/I²S serial data inputs (SDI_12–SDI_78), and DDX-specific control signals (EAPD, PWDN).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-channel digital audio processor applications.

Compared with STA308A13TR, STA339BW13TR offers higher resolution and integrated drivers but sacrifices DSD compatibility, while TAS5518PAG provides simpler, lower-cost processing without DDX-specific features or AutoMode acceleration.

Availability

STA308A13TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for home theater receivers, premium soundbars, SACD players, and automotive infotainment systems requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for STA308A13TR 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, power, and audio ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STA308A belongs to ST's DDX® digital audio processor family, designed specifically to enable high-efficiency, high-fidelity Class-D amplification systems with minimal external components and maximum programmability.

FAQ

Does STA308A13TR support native DSD6 input without external conversion?

Yes. The STA308A13TR accepts six native DSD channels (DSD_1 to DSD_6) directly on pins BICKI/DSD_1 through SDI_78/DSD_6, enabling bitstream DSD processing without PCM conversion. This preserves DSD signal integrity and supports SACD playback in high-end audio systems.

What is the function of the MVO/DSD_CLK pin?

MVO/DSD_CLK serves dual roles: as Master Volume Override input (TTL-level active-low signal forcing mute or fixed gain) and as DSD clock input for native DSD channel 6. Its multiplexed function allows flexible system-level volume control or expanded DSD timing synchronization depending on configuration.

Can STA308A13TR generate both I²S and DDX PWM outputs simultaneously?

Yes. The device supports concurrent operation: I²S outputs (SDO_12–SDO_78) provide processed digital audio to external DACs or codecs, while DDX PWM outputs (OUT1A/B–OUT8A/B) drive Class-D power stages. Channel mapping registers allow independent routing of any input to either output domain.

How does the AutoMode "movie nighttime listening" feature operate?

This hardware AutoMode reduces low-frequency energy and boosts midrange intelligibility while applying gentle compression - all executed in dedicated logic without CPU intervention. It activates via register AUTO1 (0x1F) and is optimized for late-night viewing without disturbing others, using preloaded coefficients stored in ROM.