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NE5532: An In-Depth Guide to This Popular Audio Op-Amp

The NE5532, a widely used audio operational amplifier (op-amp), has gained popularity in the field of audio amplification and signal processing. With its low noise, high input impedance, and wide bandwidth, this dual op-amp integrated circuit has found its place in applications. And today we will show you more details about this amplifier. Come on and read right now!

What is NE5532?

NE5532 is a dual operational amplifier (op-amp) integrated circuit (IC) that was developed by Texas Instruments. It is part of the NE55xx series, which includes various op-amps with different specifications. The NE5532 is one of the most popular and widely used op-amps due to its versatility and high performance.

What does NE5532 do?

The NE5532 is designed to amplify and process analog signals in various electronic circuits. It provides two independent operational amplifiers in a single package, making it suitable for applications that require multiple amplifiers. The op-amp inside NE5532 has a high input impedance, low noise, and a wide bandwidth, allowing it to accurately amplify weak signals while minimizing distortion and interference.

Equivalents

There are several equivalents or alternatives to the NE5532 op-amp. Some common equivalents include:

  • TL072: This op-amp is similar in terms of specifications and performance. It also has low noise and high input impedance.
  • LM833: Another equivalent op-amp that offers similar characteristics and is commonly used in audio applications.
  • OPA2134: This op-amp provides excellent audio performance and can be used as a drop-in replacement for the NE5532.

These are just a few examples, and there are other op-amps available in the market that can serve as alternatives to the NE5532 depending on specific application requirements.

Specs

Product Attribute Attribute Value
Texas Instruments
Product Category Operational Amplifiers – Op Amps
SMD/SMT
2 Channel
30 V
10 MHz
38 mA
9 V/us
4 mV
10 V
0 C
+ 70 C
800 nA
8 mA
No Shutdown
100 dB
5 nV/sqrt Hz
NE5532
Reel
Cut Tape
MouseReel
Amplifier Type Low Noise Amplifier
Dual Supply Voltage +/- 9 V, +/- 12 V
Height 1.58 mm
Input Noise Current Density 2.7 pA/sqrt Hz
Length 4.9 mm
Maximum Dual Supply Voltage +/- 15 V
Minimum Dual Supply Voltage +/- 5 V
Operating Supply Voltage 10 V to 30 V, +/- 5 V to +/- 15 V
Product Operational Amplifiers
Product Type Op Amps – Operational Amplifiers
Subcategory Amplifier ICs
Supply Type Single, Dual
Technology Bipolar

Features

The NE5532 op-amp boasts several notable features, including:

  1. Low noise: The NE5532 has a very low noise figure, which makes it suitable for audio applications where signal clarity is essential.
  2. High slew rate: It has a high slew rate, enabling it to respond quickly to rapid changes in input signals.
  3. Wide bandwidth: The op-amp operates over a wide frequency range, making it suitable for audio and other high-frequency applications.
  4. High input impedance: The NE5532 has a high input impedance, which minimizes loading effects on the preceding stages of a circuit.
  5. Low distortion: It provides low harmonic distortion, ensuring accurate amplification of signals.

These features contribute to the NE5532’s versatility and make it well-suited for a wide range of applications.

Practical Applications

  • Audio amplifiers

Due to its low noise and distortion characteristics, the NE5532 is commonly used in audio amplifiers, preamplifiers, mixers, and other audio equipment.

  • Active filters

It can be employed in active filter circuits to shape and manipulate signal frequencies in applications such as equalizers and crossover networks.

  • Instrumentation amplifiers

The NE5532 can be used in instrumentation amplifier circuits, where precise amplification of small differential signals is required.

  • Oscillators

It can be utilized in oscillator circuits to generate stable waveforms for applications like tone generators and frequency synthesizers.

  • Voltage regulators

The NE5532 can be part of voltage regulator circuits to improve stability and reduce noise in power supply systems.

Price

You can make a budget according to the price table below :

price

PCB symbol and Footprint

pcb symbolfootprint

Datasheet

Click here to get more details about NE5532!

Comparison With Others

NE5532 vs TL072

The NE5532 and TL072 op-amps share many similarities in terms of specifications and performance. Both offer low noise figures, high input impedance, and wide bandwidths, making them suitable for audio applications.

However, the NE5532 typically has a slightly lower noise level, while the TL072 provides a higher slew rate. Depending on specific requirements, engineers can choose between these two op-amps based on factors like noise sensitivity or the need for faster response times.

NE5532 vs JRC4558

While the NE5532 excels in audio applications, the JRC4558 is commonly used in guitar pedals and effects circuits. The JRC4558 offers a unique tone and overdrive characteristic that has become iconic in the music industry.

On the other hand, the NE5532 focuses more on low noise and high fidelity. The choice between the two depends on whether the application demands specific tonal characteristics or requires a more transparent and accurate audio reproduction.

NE5532 vs NE5534

The NE5534 is often considered an improved version of the NE5532, designed specifically for precision audio applications. While the NE5532 performs exceptionally well in most scenarios, the NE5534 further reduces distortion and exhibits better temperature stability.

If ultra-low distortion and high precision are crucial factors, the NE5534 may be the preferred choice. However, it is important to note that the NE5534 is less commonly available and slightly more expensive than the NE5532.

NE5532 vs LM4562

The LM4562 is a high-performance op-amp renowned for its exceptional audio quality. It offers an extremely low total harmonic distortion (THD) and noise level, making it suitable for audiophile-grade applications.

In comparison, the NE5532 has a higher THD but remains a popular choice due to its affordability and balanced performance across a wide range of applications. The LM4562’s superior audio quality may be preferred in critical listening environments or high-end audio systems.

NE5532 vs NE5532A

The NE5532A is an improved version of the NE5532, offering enhanced specifications and performance. It provides lower noise, better channel separation, and improved input/output voltage swing compared to the NE5532.

These improvements make the NE5532A well-suited for professional audio equipment, studio applications, and high-fidelity audio systems. However, the NE5532 remains a reliable and cost-effective option for many general-purpose applications.

NE5532 vs OPA2604

The OPA2604 is a high-performance audio op-amp known for its exceptional sound quality and low distortion characteristics. It provides a wider bandwidth, lower noise, and higher slew rate compared to the NE5532. The OPA2604 is often chosen for high-end audio equipment and critical listening applications where audio fidelity is paramount.

While the NE5532 can serve as a competent alternative in many scenarios, the OPA2604 shines in situations that demand uncompromising audio performance.

NE5532

Conclusion

Overall, it is evident why NE5532 has become a popular choice among audio enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its low noise performance, high fidelity, and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of audio applications. Whether you are designing a DIY audio project or working on professional audio equipment, understanding the capabilities and specifications of the NE5532 can help you achieve the desired audio performance.