Analysis of six terms (DAC, ADC, DSP, codec, op amp, amp)
Since the launch of the first independent DAC by vivo with the X1, the Hi-Fi smartphone trend has taken off. Several models followed suit, integrating dedicated Hi-Fi chips. However, consumers often find themselves confused by the various chip types—DACs, ADCs, DSPs, op amps, amps, codecs, and standalone DACs. Additionally, the combination of Hi-Fi chips in a single device can vary significantly, even among chips from the same manufacturer or with similar functions. What really differentiates these chips? Today, we’ll break down six key components: DAC, ADC, DSP, codec, op amp, and amp.
ADC and DAC
An ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) is used to convert analog signals into digital format, such as the TLV320. A DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), like the ES9028, does the opposite—converting digital audio back into an analog signal for playback. The ADC is typically used for recording, while the DAC is responsible for decoding audio. In between, the Digital Signal Processor (DSP) handles the digital processing of the signal before it is sent to the DAC for output.
Op Amp and Amp
An "amp" refers to an amplifier, which is not a specific chip type but rather a product category. It may include multiple op-amp chips, such as OPA1612 or OPA2604. Some op amps are designed for external speakers, while others are optimized for headphone use. For example, the NXP TFA9890 is mainly for external amplification, whereas the Maxim MAX97220 is tailored for headphones. Chips like OPA1612 and OPA2604 are versatile, suitable for both headphones and speakers.
Codec and Standalone DAC
Many people assume that codecs are always integrated within the SoC, while standalone DACs are externally placed. However, this isn't always the case. For example, the codecs in Samsung and Apple phones are often separate audio chips, not just part of the SoC. The WCD9335 in the Qualcomm-powered Samsung S7 is also a standalone audio chip, though its performance doesn’t match that of the CS4398. Why don’t all devices use standalone DACs instead of codecs?
A codec integrates multiple audio functions, including ADC, DAC, and amplifiers. For instance, the AK4961 includes ADC, DAC, and amplifier capabilities, making it a full audio solution. While it’s more powerful than a standalone DAC, which only decodes, the codec’s broader integration means more complex design and less focus on decoding efficiency. That’s why some high-end DACs outperform integrated solutions in terms of sound quality.
In recent years, three-chip Hi-Fi setups have become popular, like the vivo Xshot using TLV320 + CS4398 + MAX97220. However, with the introduction of highly integrated chips like the SABRE9018Q2C and ES9118, which combine DAC and op amp functions, the industry is shifting toward more compact and efficient designs. These chips save space while still delivering excellent sound quality, satisfying users who want high-performance Hi-Fi without sacrificing portability.
Finally, let’s take a look at some of the most common Hi-Fi chips found in smartphones today, including standalone DACs, integrated DACs with op amps, and codecs.
Independent DAC Series:
Mainstream Independent DAC Comparison
ES9018K2M: Used in the vivo X3, Xplay3S, X5Max, Xiaomi Note Standard, Meizu MX4 Pro, Meizu PRO 5, Blue Devils MOS1 Max, TCL Dongdong Gun 2, and Gigaset ME.
SABRE9018C2M: Found in LG V10, Lenovo Music Lemon X3, and Xiaomi Note Top.
ES9018AQ2M: Used in the Geek Out V2 portable DAC, which requires a phone with strong USB power output. It's not ideal for long-term use due to heat and power consumption.
ES9028Q2M: Seen in vivo X6 Plus and Xplay5 Ultimate.
AK4490: Used in ZTE Tianji 7.
AK4375: Found in nubia Z9 Max, Z9 Max Elite, nubia My Prague, vivo X5ProV, Y27, X6, and X6S, as well as Gigaset ME Pure.
CS4398: Used in early vivo models like X1, Xplay, Xshot, X5, X5F, X5Pro, Xplay5, and X6S Plus.
You might wonder why the same ES90xx chip has different suffixes like C2M, Q2M, etc. These refer to different package sizes. C2M is the smallest, Q2M the largest, and K2M is in between. For example, the ES9028C2M in the LG G5 B&O module is considered one of the best, but it still faces issues with heat and power consumption, similar to the Geek Out V2.
DAC with Integrated Op Amp:
Integrated Op Amp DAC Comparison
AK4376: Found in nubia Z11 and vivo X7.
ES9118: No specific model available yet.
SABRE9018Q2C: Also no specific model reported.
Codec Series:
Mainstream Codec Comparison
338S1285: iPhone 6s
338S1201: iPhone 6 Plus
338S1117: iPhone 5
Lucky CS47L91: Samsung S7 (Exynos 8890 version)
CS43L36: Meizu PRO 6
WM5102: Samsung S4, Meizu MX3, Lenovo K860i
WCD9335: Samsung S7 (Snapdragon 820 version)
AK4961: nubia Z7 and Z9
In summary, many phones use these chips, but their performance varies greatly depending on power supply size, number of op amps, and overall design. For example, the ES9018K2M on a phone is a scaled-down version of the full ES9018, which is 8-channel. The full version offers better dynamic range and SNR. HIFIMAN 901, for instance, uses two ES9018 DACs and professional op amps like OPA2107 and OPA627, resulting in superior audio quality compared to typical Hi-Fi phones.
As shown, from the ES9018K2M to the ES9028Q2M/C2M, the performance gap continues to narrow. Meanwhile, the new ES9038PRO brings even greater improvements in DNR and THD+N. Looking ahead, DACs with integrated op amps are likely to become the mainstream in future Hi-Fi smartphones.
Lastly, in the short term, Hi-Fi chips with better performance tend to consume more power and generate more heat. This is a technical challenge that cannot be avoided, much like when a phone processes 4K video. Better sound quality comes at a cost—whether in battery life or heat generation. It’s a trade-off that must be accepted in pursuit of higher fidelity.
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