EPC has recently introduced the EPC9192, a reference design that allows for the development of powerful, compact, and efficient Class-D audio amplifiers. This design showcases the capabilities of EPC's 200 V eGaN FETs, specifically the EPC2307 model, in a ground-referenced, split dual supply Single-Ended (SE) configuration. The EPC9192 can deliver an impressive 700 W per channel into a 4 Ω load.

One notable feature of the EPC9192 is its modular design, which offers scalability and expandability. The motherboard of the design accommodates two PWM modulators and two half bridge power stage daughterboards, enabling the creation of a two-channel amplifier with housekeeping supplies and protections. This flexibility allows users to customize the PWM modulator and power stage, facilitating the evaluation and comparison of different devices and modulation techniques.

Here are some key features of the EPC9192:

1.700 W Class-D power stage in a compact size of 4 in3, including the output filter and heatsink.

2.Single regulated 12 V power supply input for housekeeping functions.

3.Dual split supply input, unregulated, ranging from ±42 V to ±85 V for the power stage.

4.Analog inputs that can be either balanced (XLR) or unbalanced (RCA).

5.Configurable for two independent SE channels or a single channel BTL (Bridge-Tied Load) mode.

6.Protections against undervoltage, overvoltage, overcurrent, and overtemperature conditions.

7.Switching frequency above 600 kHz.

8.Key performance measurements of the EPC9192 include:

a)700 W output power at 2 Ω – 4 Ω / 350 W at 8 Ω per channel.

b)BTL capable, delivering 1400 W at 4 Ω – 8 Ω.

c)Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise (THD+N) below 0.005%.

d)Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) exceeding 120 dB.

e)Noise floor of 40 µV.

f)Frequency response from 5 Hz to 20 kHz with a deviation of +/- 0.5 dB, regardless of the load.

According to Alex Lidow, the CEO of EPC, the EPC9192 serves as a valuable tool for audio amplifier designers who wish to take advantage of the benefits offered by GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology. With its high power density and scalability, the EPC9192 facilitates the rapid prototyping of compact, high-performance Class-D amplifiers.

The EPC9192 evaluation boards are available for purchase at a price of $948.48. Additionally, the EPC2307 eGaN FETs can be obtained at a price of $3.28 each in 3Ku reels.