Versus 10 IC Op-Amp | JRC4558 JRC4556 JRC4580 CA3240 NE5532 LM833 LF353 OPA2134 AD823 LM4562

Summary

In this video, the presenter compares 10 different types of ICs (integrated circuits) commonly used in audio applications. Through testing and analysis, the video highlights the performance of each IC, focusing on characteristics such as bass depth, mid-bass, high frequencies, and overall sound clarity. Each IC's suitability for driving various audio devices, including amplifiers, is discussed in detail, with subjective listening tests and performance evaluations. The presenter also provides rankings for each IC, based on its sound quality. Aiming to offer insight into audio equipment selection, the video concludes with sound samples recorded for viewers to experience firsthand.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video discusses a comparison of 10 different IC types commonly used, focusing on ease of availability in the market.
• 😀 The presenter is using a Cimoy PM2 amplifier setup to test these ICs and demonstrates how they perform in audio applications.
• 😀 The ICs tested include the JRC4558, JRC456, JRC4580, CA3240, NE5532, LM833, LF353, OPA2134, AD823, and LM4562.
• 😀 A sweep tone generator is used to test the ICs, and the output is analyzed and graphically displayed for comparison.
• 😀 The presenter uses 9V batteries (in series to make 18V) and a 47k resistor to avoid output impedance issues during testing.
• 😀 The JRC4558 IC produces deep bass but slightly weak mid-bass and high frequencies, with a slight dip at 4-5kHz.
• 😀 The JRC456 IC has better bass response but struggles in the mid-high range, with weaker highs above 4kHz.
• 😀 The NE5532 IC produces a well-rounded sound with excellent high-frequency response, but it can get tiring when listened to at high volumes for extended periods.
• 😀 The LM833 IC delivers a smooth, soft sound with a good bass response but is less pronounced in the midrange compared to others.
• 😀 The AD823 IC stands out for its clear and separate soundstage with a soft, forward vocal presence, making it ideal for long listening sessions.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the video?

The main objective of the video is to compare 10 different types of ICs (Integrated Circuits) commonly used in audio amplification, testing them for their sound quality, and providing a detailed review based on specific audio characteristics.

What is the method used to test the ICs in the video?

The ICs are tested using a sweep tone generator, with the results displayed through a recording device that notes the values and generates a graph to compare the different ICs directly.

How does the JRC 4558 perform in the sound test?

The JRC 4558 has deep bass but lacks mid-bass at 125Hz. It produces a nearly flat response from 500Hz to 1kHz, but the high frequencies are slightly lower compared to others.

What makes the JRC 4580 different from the JRC 4558?

The JRC 4580 produces more pronounced bass than the JRC 4558, with a noticeable drop in mid-bass at 125Hz. It has a smooth high frequency response but slightly more tamed, offering a softer sound overall.

Which IC performs the best in terms of high-frequency clarity?

The NE5532 is noted for having the clearest high-frequency response, with its high-end frequencies reaching up to 16kHz while remaining less fatiguing compared to other ICs.

How does the LM833 perform in terms of frequency response?

The LM833 has a solid bass response but slightly weaker mid-bass at 125Hz. Its frequency response starts to drop at 1kHz but excels in the 2kHz region, where it is more pronounced compared to some other ICs.

What is a unique characteristic of the CA3240 IC?

The CA3240 is characterized by its soft bass and less prominent mid-bass. It emphasizes the higher frequencies around 8kHz, giving it a more treble-heavy sound compared to other ICs.

Which IC is best suited for extended listening without causing ear fatigue?

The JRC 4580 is best suited for extended listening due to its soft sound, which does not strain the ears over long periods, making it a comfortable choice for prolonged use.

Why is the NE5532 considered to have a unique sound compared to other ICs?

The NE5532 stands out due to its high clarity in mid-range frequencies and a balanced response across the bass and treble. However, its high frequencies can be fatiguing at higher volumes, which is a unique trait among the tested ICs.

What are the key findings regarding the LM4562 IC's sound performance?

The LM4562 produces a luxurious, full bass response with clear guitar and bass sounds. The mid-bass is slightly lacking, but it delivers excellent instrument separation and a pleasant, balanced sound overall, making it suitable for long listening sessions.