PCM2706 High Fidelity USB Soundcard / USB Headphones

This project involves a high-fidelity external USB sound card or USB headphone system designed for use with PCs or Macs. It utilizes the PCM2706 integrated circuit, which serves as a high-quality, crystal-clear 16-bit stereo digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The PCM2706 is a single-chip DAC that provides two stereo output channels and a digital S/PDIF output, requiring very few external components. The chip features an integrated USB 1.0 and USB 2.0 compliant interface controller, allowing it to be powered directly through a USB connection. The PCM2706 operates as a USB plug-and-play device, eliminating the need for driver installation on Windows XP and Mac OS X. Additionally, the PCM2706 chip supports seven functions controlled by tactile switches, including volume control (up and down), play, stop, previous track, and next track. These functions are functional immediately upon connecting the PCM2706 to a computer's USB port without requiring software or driver installation. The project includes a double-sided PCB layout measuring 65 mm x 43 mm in PDF format, which can be used for transferring to a printed circuit board. Soldering the PCM2706 chip onto the PCB is a straightforward process.

The PCM2706 integrated circuit is notable for its ability to deliver high-fidelity audio output with minimal distortion, making it suitable for audio applications where sound quality is paramount. The chip's architecture allows for efficient signal processing, ensuring that audio signals are converted from digital to analog with precision. The inclusion of the S/PDIF output expands the versatility of the device, enabling connections to external digital audio systems.

The tactile switches integrated into the design enhance user interaction by providing direct control over playback functions. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a hands-on approach to audio management without the need for software interfaces. The plug-and-play capability of the PCM2706 simplifies setup, making it accessible for users of varying technical expertise.

The PCB design, measuring 65 mm by 43 mm, is optimized for compactness while accommodating the necessary components for the PCM2706. The double-sided layout allows for efficient routing of signals and power distribution, which is critical in maintaining audio integrity. The PDF format of the PCB layout facilitates easy transfer to a PCB manufacturing service, ensuring that the physical implementation of the design is straightforward and reliable.

In summary, this external USB sound card project utilizing the PCM2706 IC represents an excellent solution for high-quality audio playback on PC and Mac systems, combining ease of use with advanced audio processing capabilities.This is a high fidelity external USB Soundcard / USB Headphones project that can be built for your PC or Mac. It is based on the latest PCM2706 IC which functions as a high quality, crystal clear 16-BIT Stereo DAC.

It is a single chip digital-to-analog converter that offers two D/A output stereo channels, digital S/PDIF output and requires very fe w external components. PCM2706 includes integrated USB 1. 0 & USB 2. 0 compliant interface controller and it is conveniently powered directly from USB connection. PCM2706 is a USB plug-and-play device and does not require any driver installation under Windows XP and Mac OSX. PCM2706 chip also provides seven functions that are controlled with tactile switches. It provides volume (up / down), Play, Stop, Previous Track & Next Track controls. These functions do not need any software or driver installation and work instantly after connecting PCM2706 to a computer`s USB connector.

This project includes double-sided 65 mm x 43 mm PCB layout in the PDF format which you may use to transfer to your printed circuit board. Once you will have PCB ready, soldering PCM2706 chip is not that difficult as it may seem. 🔗 External reference