GaN Systems has published a  white paper, “GaN in Class-D Audio: Advantages with GaN Systems – a Comparative Look,” which reviews the various GaN and Silicon transistor approaches in Class-D audio amplifier design techniques.

The document identifies and compares the most popular GaN-based transistor and Silicon MOSFET solutions for high-performance Class-D amplifier applications, including the GaN Systems Class-D Amplifier and Companion SMPS Evaluation Kit.

As described in the whitepaper, GaN and Silicon solutions were assessed in many areas of differentiation: device parameters and characteristics, performance, application circuit complexity, and ease of manufacturing.

Highlights from the comparative study show that the GaN Systems THD+N vs. Frequency Plot is virtually flat, indicating no increased distortion as the frequency is increased to 20kHz and beyond. Additionally, near-perfect switching waveforms demonstrate a virtually transparent replication of the audio output.

Demand for high quality audio is fueling the growth of the Class-D audio amplifier market, which is expected to reach $4.92 billion by 2026 from $2.49 billion in 2018 according to Allied Market Research.

Class-D amplifiers are now being used in more audio applications including home theaters, high power smart speakers, pro touring amplifiers, portable party speakers, automotive, marine and power sports.