Hello,
I'm new here so I'm sorry if I leave up pertinent information.
I'm currently building a DIY drum module and I'm having issues picking an amplifier (I'm using an UNO BTW). Currently I have 8bit digital audio data being sent to PORTD at a 8Khz. All 8 pins (D0-D7) are connected to an 8bit R2R DAC (10k-20K). I need an amplifier after my R2R network but I'm having problems finding one I need. Right now I'm using an LM386 which just doesn't seem to be enough. I wanted to know what others may suggest in terms of good amplifiers.
I was hoping for a single voltage amp that does not require more than 9v to run (if that's not possible I'll use a battery that can supply more juice). The load (speaker) i'm currently using requires far too much power (3w-5w 8ohm) which is also causing issues as the LM386 is only outputting 0.1-0.3watts (really over working the little guy)...
Any insight regarding amplifier/speaker suggestions from anyone that has done anything like this would be greatly appreciated.
Well, first... a speaker doesn't "require" wattage really. They all have different levels of efficiency -- that is, how much power it takes to produce a certain amount of sound -- but they will all gladly run on mW levels. Just... maybe not to your satisfaction in terms of volume.
OK, the hair-splitting is out of the way.
Here's a post full of recommendations on small chip-amps:
I have some little TDAs at home that I haven't played with, but I have built LM1875 and LM3886 designs. Both of those are waaay over your power requirements and supply rail budget though.
If your supply is limited in terms of current (small transformer or battery-powered), you'll need to look into Class D. Unless you're very skilled, that means going with pre-built modules. Those are available all over the place. Check www.parts-express.com, and Google "class d amp kits".
