Audio amplifier ICs (integrated circuits) are devices used within electronic circuits for audio applications. Audio amplifiers increase, control and amplify the strength or amplitude of the signals. They are used to increase the sound and quality of the audio signal. Amplifier characteristics and performance are classed using letter symbols, such as Class-A, Class-B, Class-C, Class-D or Class-AB.
IC audio amplifiers are useful because they can vastly decrease the size of amplification devices, making it possible to create sophisticated amplification within a small package. Unlike power amplifiers, they are not standalone devices. Audio amplifiers come in standard semiconductor packages, such as HTSSOP, MSOP, PDIP, SOIC and TQFN. These packages can be through-hole or surface mounted.
Audio amplifier ICs are used in a range of commercial applications. They are found in car stereos, headphones, televisions, keyboards, and toys. They are also used in electronic circuits for line drivers, ultrasonic drivers, power converters and radio amplifiers.