HiFi DAC Module for uConsole

uConsole
,
1

I’m planning to design a DAC+ADC module for uConsole with an expected THD+N (output) of around -120dB. Would people find this specification acceptable for $75?

Features

  1. Retains the built-in speaker function.

  2. Supports 32-bit depth and 384kHz sampling rate.

    • Currently, software only supports PCM playback, though hardware is capable of DSD playback.
    • MQA format is not considered due to low usage and official discontinuation.

  3. 400mW output (balanced headphones), 200mW output (single-ended).

  4. Dual headphone jacks: 3.5mm and 4.4mm.

  5. Physical switch for output power selection: 25% and 100% volume, adaptable to different headphones.

    • LED indicator lights up when playing; blue LED for 25% volume, orange LED for 100% volume.

  6. 3.5mm Line-In Jack

Chips

  1. DAC
    • ESS ES9039Q2M
  2. OPA
    • OPA1612 *4
  3. ADC
    • CS5340
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2

Feel free to share any thoughts or suggestions!

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3

I would love if it had 1/4" in.

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4

I have considered using a 6.35mm connector, but it seems that the side of the uConsole doesn’t have enough space for such a large connector. Additionally, my input design is purely line-level, so this requirement can probably only be met by using a 6.35mm-to-3.5mm cable to connect to a device with a built-in preamp.

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5

For example, Walkman.

6

Balance in and our may be an option then. There are adapters from there.

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7

I have considered and support balanced audio output; however, balanced input support may be limited by size constraints, making it difficult to implement.

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@ white-round-square

9

Internal USB would be nice for file storage.
External to connect something like a turn table or midi device

10

If it could provide 48v phantom power for condenser microphones, this would be great for making field recordings. With a GPS adapter we could even geo-locate the recording.

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This card is designed with a focus on high-quality audio output rather than input. Line-in functionality is only considered as an additional feature. Perhaps a uRecord card or something similar will be introduced in the future to fulfil these functions.

12

Another good reason to have external USB. Could add a mic that way.

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I’ve used the iRig Pre before to use condensor mics on recorders that don’t have phantom power quite effectively.

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14

I took a look inside the UConsole and examined its internal space. Reserving a downward-facing USB port at the battery location should allow for the connection of a USB drive. Additionally, leaving room for a USB-A port on the I/O panel doesn’t seem like a bad idea either.

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15

Could be USB A inside and USB C outside.

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16

That works, but a USB-C port with only 5V 1A and no PD seems less versatile than USB-A to me.

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17

I mean this is probably a long stretch but midi maybe in the form of a 3.5 jack? But yh if not no worries im glad to see where this goes, im glad finally the uconsole is in enough hands to see fantastic expansion madules now.

18

The I2S interface I’m using doesn’t seem to provide full MIDI support. Given that most modern MIDI keyboard devices are equipped with a USB port, I don’t think a 3.5mm-to-MIDI adapter cable is a particularly good idea.

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No particular suggestions from me, just sharing that I’m very interested in this project. Looking forward to the day we can place an order! Thank you for your work on this @Koha.

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Thank you for your support!