Part A
AK4396VF
Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 2616 PCS
- Package
- LSSOP-28
- Series
- Data Acquisition - ADCs-DACs - Special Purpose
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The AK4396VF and AK4395VF are both 24-bit 192 kHz premium multi-bit delta-sigma DACs from AKM in the same 28-pin VSOP package, sharing a compatible serial audio interface and similar analog output architecture. The AK4396VF is the newer-generation device with improved dynamic performance and lower distortion, making it a strong functional upgrade candidate for AK4395VF designs, provided the surrounding analog and digital support circuitry is validated against the updated datasheet.
Resolution and Sample Rate
High match
Package Type
High match
Digital Audio Interface
High match
Analog Output Configuration
Validation required
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AK4396VF | AK4395VF | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution (bits) | 24 | 24 | Both are 24-bit DACs, so quantization noise floor and dynamic range capability are comparable at the data-format level. |
| Dynamic Range (dB) | 120 | 120 | Dynamic range determines the usable signal-to-noise window; identical values indicate similar low-level detail retrieval in quiet passages. |
| THD+N (dB) | -100 | -100 | Total harmonic distortion plus noise reflects linearity and cleanliness of conversion; matching values suggest comparable audio fidelity. |
| Sample Rate Support (kHz) | Up to 192 | Up to 192 | Maximum sample rate defines compatibility with high-resolution audio sources; both support up to 192 kHz for HD audio playback. |
| Digital Interface | I2S / 24-bit MSB-justified | I2S / 24-bit MSB-justified | The digital input format must match the upstream DSP or receiver; identical interfaces allow drop-in replacement in the same signal chain. |
| Supply Voltage (V) | 5 (analog), 3.3 (digital) | 5 (analog), 3.3 (digital) | Supply rails must match the board's power design; identical requirements mean no regulator or level-shifting changes are needed. |
| Package | 28-pin VSOP | 28-pin VSOP | Package and pinout determine PCB footprint compatibility; matching VSOP packages support direct board-level substitution. |
| Analog Output Type | Differential voltage output | Differential voltage output | Output topology affects the external filter and amplifier design; identical differential outputs allow reuse of the same analog stage. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AK4396VF | AK4395VF |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM |
| Part Status | Obsolete | Obsolete |
| Type | DAC, Audio | DAC, Audio |
| Number of Channels | 2 | 2 |
| Resolution(Bits) | 24 b | 24 b |
| Sampling Rate(Per Second) | 216k | 192k |
| Data Interface | DSD, I²S | I²S |
| Voltage Supply Source | Analog and Digital | Analog and Digital |
| Voltage - Supply | 3V ~ 5.25V | 5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -10°C ~ 70°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
Frequently asked questions
What are the key differences between the AK4396VF and AK4395VF audio DACs?
The AK4396VF is a 24-bit 192 kHz advanced multi-bit delta-sigma DAC with a dynamic range of 120 dB and THD+N of -100 dB, while the AK4395VF is a 24-bit 192 kHz multi-bit delta-sigma DAC with a dynamic range of 120 dB and THD+N of -100 dB. Both are pin-compatible 28-pin VSOP devices from AKM, but the AK4396VF adds a switched-capacitor filter and improved jitter tolerance, whereas the AK4395VF uses a different digital filter architecture. Designers should consult the respective AKM datasheets for full register map and feature differences.
Are the AK4396VF and AK4395VF pin-compatible?
Yes. Both devices are offered in the same 28-pin VSOP package with identical pin assignments, which allows the AK4396VF to be used as a drop-in replacement for the AK4395VF in existing PCB layouts, provided the surrounding circuit and register configuration are validated against the AK4396VF datasheet.
Do the AK4396VF and AK4395VF support the same digital audio interfaces?
Both devices support standard I2S and left-justified digital audio input formats at sample rates up to 192 kHz and word lengths up to 24 bits. The AK4396VF additionally supports a direct-stream digital (DSD) input mode, which is not available on the AK4395VF. Designers should verify the specific interface mode required against the AKM datasheets for each part.
What are the supply voltage and power consumption specifications for these DACs?
Both the AK4396VF and AK4395VF operate from a 5 V analog supply (VA) and a 3.3 V digital supply (VD), with a separate 5 V supply for the output buffer. Typical power consumption for the AK4396VF is approximately 130 mW, while the AK4395VF is approximately 120 mW, depending on operating mode. Exact values should be confirmed from the AKM datasheets.
Can the AK4396VF be used as a direct replacement for the AK4395VF without firmware changes?
Not necessarily. Although the devices are pin-compatible, the AK4396VF has a different register map and additional features such as DSD input and a switched-capacitor filter. Firmware written for the AK4395VF must be reviewed and updated to match the AK4396VF register definitions and initialization sequence as specified in the AKM datasheet.
What are the typical applications for the AK4396VF and AK4395VF?
Both DACs are intended for high-performance audio applications such as AV receivers, CD/SACD/DVD players, professional audio equipment, and outboard D/A converters. The AK4396VF is often selected for designs requiring DSD playback capability, while the AK4395VF is used in PCM-only high-resolution audio systems.
What is the difference in THD+N and dynamic range between the AK4396VF and AK4395VF?
Both devices specify a dynamic range of 120 dB and THD+N of -100 dB in their respective AKM datasheets under standard measurement conditions. Because the published performance figures are equivalent, selection between the two parts should be based on feature set, register compatibility, and availability rather than measured audio performance.