Synaptics AudioSmart USB-C Codec Earns Industry's First THX Certification

Synaptics (NASDAQ: SYNA), a developer of human interface solutions, today announced that its AudioSmart® CX21988-THX is the industry's first THX -certified USB-C audio codec solution. By offering a THX-certified USB-C audio codec, Synaptics® can provide OEMs with an important building block to enable a significant lead in the development of THX-certified earphones and headphones, mobile gaming devices, and other personal audio devices. Founded in 1983 by film producer George Lucas, THX provides an internationally recognized certification for products that do not compromise on quality, compatibility, and performance.

“Developing a superior sound package on headphones, especially one that accurately reproduces the soundstage of the mix, requires a powerful combination of professional-grade components,” said Peter Vasay, senior vice president of technology and operations at THX. “We were impressed by the Synaptics AudioSmart CX21988-THX USB-C codec’s support for high-resolution voice, the performance of best-in-class headphones, its ultra-low distortion and the adjustment options to greatly improve the performance of connected transducers. We believe it is the ideal choice for developing THX Certified headphones.”

“The AudioSmart CX21988-THX is our first crystal-less, low-power codec for USB Type-C applications that supports high-resolution audio,” said Saleel Awsare, vice president and general manager of the Audio and Imaging Division at Synaptics. “Having THX certify its performance and quality validates this single-chip solution as an ideal solution for delivering an immersive auditory experience to high-fidelity earphones and headphones.”

To achieve THX ratings, THX engineers completed hundreds of evaluation tests, focusing on frequency response, audio output and distortion, as well as the complexity of accurately reproducing an engineered sound field. The Synaptics AudioSmart CX21988-THX USB-C codec meets or exceeds THX's stringent regulations, helping manufacturers ensure that the codec allows headphones and mobile gaming devices to reproduce professionally designed audio that matches the industry's highest standards.

The CX21988-THX is a low-power, highly integrated, low-cost, crystal-free single-chip solution that is ideal for immersive, high-resolution headphone applications. In addition, a five-band equalization has been added to fine-tune audio products. The CX21988-THX chip is small in size, measuring only 3mm x3.3mm, which minimizes PCB area and material costs, allowing greater flexibility in earphone and headphone design.