Sound Semiconductor announced today that they have introduced two new analog audio chips for synths and other applications, the ProCircuit SSI2161 and FatKeys SSI2162, single and dual channel VCAs.
Sound Semiconductor’s SSI2164, a low noise and distortion VCA with four independent channels, was introduced several years ago. The newly launched SSI2161 internally parallels all four SSI2164 channels, for a 6dB noise improvement, offering the lowest noise among VCA chips.
Likewise, the SSI2162 internally parallels two pairs of SSI2164 channels for 3dB lower noise.
All VCA’s have exponential control with a –33mV/dB gain constant. Current inputs and outputs allow a wide range of input and output resistance to suit design needs, and a unique mode control permits selection of class A, AB, or intermediate biasing of the gain core to optimize noise versus distortion characteristics. A gain range from +20dB to –100dB is possible.
Pricing and Availability
The SSI2161 and SSI2162 are both housed in a 10-lead Shrink Small Outline Package (SSOP). Pricing at 1000 pieces is $0.84 for the SSI2161 and $0.99 for the SSI2162. Both are available now.
Oh, how I’d like to get into electronics more… Done a few (simple) gear fixes so I’m already over the first hurdle of actually touching electronics, so there’s that. These posts inspire me to take it to the next level and experiment with circuitry, but how to started? Browsing the DIY community resources and watching idols like Look Mom No Computer spark even more interest. Probably it’s just another case of ‘doing gets things done’ and just a matter of starting and learn from mistakes.
I’m totally with you. A lot of DIY people make it seem so easy to start building your own projects that I almost feel bad not to start diving deeper and actually build easy circuits. I’ve managed to assemble two Mutable Instruments modules (Ripples and Clouds) so I wouldn’t consider myself a total noob concerning hardware, but still all those electronic terms make me scared and I often feel overwhelmed by the amount of information in DIY forums.
Find yourself a copy of “Getting Started in Electronics” by Forrest Mims. A great place to start.
Another good starting point is Ray Wilson’s Music From Outer Space. Very well written and aimed at beginners.