AKM launches AK491x premium audio op amps at HIGH END

Asahi Kasei Microdevices has launched the AK491x series of premium audio operational amplifiers for analogue output stages in audio equipment. The series comprises the AK4911 and AK4912, single-channel and dual-channel op amps respectively, and will be shown at HIGH END Vienna 2026.

The launch extends AKM’s Velvet Sound positioning beyond digital-to-analogue conversion and into post-DAC analogue circuitry. The company presents the parts for use in audio products including network audio devices, USB DACs, CD and SACD players, wireless speaker systems, soundbars, digital audio players, electronic musical instruments, audio interfaces and digital mixers.

For hi-fi manufacturers and design houses, the notable point is that AKM is adding an analogue building block alongside its established converter portfolio. That gives equipment designers a branded op amp option from the same supplier ecosystem as AKM’s audio DACs, including applications where current summing or output-stage drive is part of the design brief.

Key specifications

Models

AK4911 single-channel op amp; AK4912 dual-channel op amp

Noise density

0.96 nV/√Hz

THD+N

-150 dB at 1 kHz

Output drive

±100 mA

Power supply

±3.5 V to ±25 V

Slew rate

26 V/µs

Bandwidth

38 MHz at gain +1

AK491x samples are currently available, with mass production scheduled to start in early 2027. The series will be displayed at HIGH END Vienna 2026 from June 4 to June 7 at Austria Center Vienna, Hall X2, Booth E07, where AKM’s booth will also include a home-audio sound-field correction demonstration.

Sources

- audioXpress - AKM Pushes Velvet Sound Beyond the DAC with New AK491x Premium Audio Op Amps