Microphone Preamplifiers Integrated Circuit
A Microphone Preamplifier IC is the “first gate” of the audio signal chain. Its core mission: amplify weak millivolt (mV) signals from a microphone to a robust line-level voltage (V). This ensures the signal is strong enough for ADCs, audio processors, or power amplifiers to handle.
IC-Mart Your Trusted Source for Microphone Preamplifiers Chips
(from leading manufacturers)
Top Global Manufacturers and Iconic Models
1. THAT Corporation (The Studio Standard)
THAT is the premier supplier for professional audio. Their chips are the benchmark for high-end mixing consoles and external preamps.
- Industry Standards:
THAT 1510,1512(Ultra-low noise; pin-compatible with ADI’s SSM2019). - Low-Power/Compact:
THAT 1580,1583(High-performance differential amplifiers in QFN packages). - Digitally Controlled Gain:
THAT 5171(Controller),6261,6263,6266(Integrated gain chips).
2. Texas Instruments / TI
TI offers the broadest portfolio, ranging from budget portable devices to top-tier digital preamps.
- Pro/Instrumentation Grade:
INA163,166,217(Classic high-performance preamps). - Programmable Gain (PGA):
PGA2500(Broadcast standard),PGA2505. - Low-Power/Portable (LMV Series):
LMV1012,1032,1015(Consumer electronics staples). - Noise Reduction/Multi-Mic:
LMV1089,1091(Supports dual-mic beamforming and far-field pickup).
3. Analog Devices / ADI (Including Maxim Integrated)
ADI leads in signal conditioning. Following the Maxim acquisition, they also dominate the micro-amplifier market for mobile devices.
- Conditioning/Compression:
SSM2166(Integrated compressor, limiter, and noise gate),SSM2167(Low-voltage version). - High Performance:
SSM2019(The industry’s classic low-noise self-contained preamp). - Maxim Portable Series:
MAX4060,4061,4063(Differential inputs with internal bias). - Micropower Series:
MAX4466,4469(Ultra-low current for battery-powered gear).
4. STMicroelectronics / ST
ST chips are known for high ROI and are widely found in laptops, PDAs, and industrial intercoms.
- Flagship:
TS472(Fully differential I/O with 2.0V bias output; mobile platform favorite). - General Purpose:
TS482,TS4990(Standard audio subsystem components).
5. Nisshinbo / Formerly JRC
With deep roots in audio, their NJM series is a top choice for the Asian market.
- General Analog:
NJM2781(Mono),NJM2122(Low-noise dual op-amp). - MEMS Specialized:
NJU72086,72089(Preamps tailored for MEMS microphones). - Digital MEMS:
NJU9555(With PDM digital output).
6. onsemi
Focuses on digital output solutions to meet the D-Mic (Digital Mic) trend.
- Flagship:
FAN3852(Microphone preamp with integrated ADC and digital output).
Quick Reference: Global Manufacturer Matrix
| Manufacturer | High-Performance / Pro | Signal Conditioning | Digital / Digitally Controlled | Portable / Low-Power |
| THAT | 1510, 1512 | – | 6261, 5171 | 1580 |
| TI | INA163, INA217 | LMV1089 | PGA2500 | LMV1032 |
| ADI | SSM2019, AD797 | SSM2166 | – | MAX4466 |
| ST | TS472 | – | – | TS482 |
| Nisshinbo | NJM2122 | – | NJU9555 | NJM2781 |
| onsemi | – | – | FAN3852 | – |
Leading Chinese Manufacturers and Models
1. SGMICRO
A leader in Chinese analog chips. Their low-noise precision op-amps are frequently used as mic preamps.
- Models:
SGM8249-1/2/4(High-voltage, low-noise; targets TI’s OPA series). - Ultra-Low Noise:
SGM8270(3.2nV/√Hz, ideal for weak signal capture).
2. 3PEAK
Known for industrial-grade analog tech. Their precision op-amps excel in EMI/RFI immunity.
- Models:
TP2262,2264(Audio-specific),TP2552(High-precision).
3. Everest Semiconductor
The domestic expert in audio Codecs with integrated Programmable Gain Amplifiers (PGA).
- Models:
ES7243,7241(High-performance ADCs for smart speakers),ES8388(Classic low-power Codec).
4. AWINIC
The “Consumer King.” Dominates mobile and wearable markets with high integration.
- Models:
AW81xxseries (Mic bias and preamp integration),AW35301(Signal conditioning/switches).
5. CBMicro / DIOO
Specialists in pin-to-pin replacements and low-power industrial solutions.
- Models:
CBM60xx(Low-noise replacement),DIO2032(Low-noise op-amp for intercoms).
Strategic Selection Guide: Chinese Brands
| Application Scenario | Recommended Brand | Selection Logic |
| Pro Audio / Hi-Fi | SGMICRO | Low noise density; replaces TI’s professional OPA series. |
| Smart Pickup / Far-field | Everest | Integrated ADC+PGA; reduces circuit complexity. |
| Mobile / Wearables | Awinic | WLCSP packaging; ultra-low standby power. |
| Industrial / Public Address | 3PEAK | High reliability; wide temperature range. |
Why do you need a Microphone Preamplifiers?
- High Gain: Boosts tiny mic signals by 20dB to 60dB.
- Low Noise: The most critical factor. Prevents noise from being amplified later in the chain.
- Impedance Matching: Ensures signal integrity between the mic and the circuit.
- Power Delivery: Provides Bias or Phantom Power for Condenser and MEMS mics.
Top Application Scenarios
- Consumer Electronics: Smartphones, TWS earbuds (ANC/ENC), and laptops.
- Pro Audio: Audio interfaces (Sound cards), mixing consoles, and Hi-Fi recorders.
- Smart Home/IoT: Smart speakers (far-field pickup), smart appliances, and video doorbells.
- Automotive: Hands-free calling, Road Noise Cancellation (RNC), and eCall systems.
- Industrial/Security: Surveillance cameras, acoustic fault diagnostics, and intercoms.
Four Core IC Classifications
| Category | Key Requirement | Lead Manufacturers | Representative Models |
| Pro Analog | Audio Fidelity / Low Noise | THAT, ADI, TI | THAT1512, AD797 |
| Digital Output | Digitization / Interference Resistance | onsemi, Cirrus Logic | FAN3852, CS53L30 |
| Feature Integrated | Compression / Noise Gate / AGC | ADI, TI | SSM2166, LMV1089 |
| Low-Power / Mini | Battery Life / Small Footprint | ST, Maxim, Nisshinbo | TS472, MAX4466 |
| Programmable Gain | Remote Control / Flexibility | TI, THAT | PGA2500, THAT6261 |