Overview
This incredibly small Adafruit TPA2012 stereo Class-D audio amplifier breakout packs a surprising punch, delivering up to 2 × 2.1W into 4Ω speakers while running efficiently from a 2.7V–5.5V DC supply. Built around the TPA2012 chip, it’s an excellent modern upgrade over legacy LM386 amplifiers, offering higher efficiency, better sound quality, and rock-solid protection features.
Thanks to its Class-D architecture, the amplifier achieves up to 89% efficiency, making it ideal for portable, USB-powered, and battery-operated projects. Despite its power output, the board stays cool and includes thermal and over-current protection for reliable long-term operation.
For easy tuning, the breakout includes a dual mini DIP switch that lets you select one of four gain levels (6 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, or 24 dB) on the fly. With excellent click-and-pop suppression, independent channel shutdown, and very low quiescent current, this board is perfect for compact embedded audio designs.
Note: Speakers are not included. Use 4Ω or 8Ω speakers. Terminal block color may be blue or black.
Specification
Technical details for Adafruit TPA2012 Stereo 2.1W Class D Audio Amplifier Breakout.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Amplifier Type | Class D (Stereo) |
| Channels | 2 (Left + Right) |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7V to 5.5V DC |
| Quiescent Current | Typical 6 mA |
| Shutdown Current | Typical 1.5 µA |
| Output Power (5V Supply) | 2.1W per channel @ 4Ω, 10% THD; 1.4W per channel @ 8Ω, 10% THD |
| Speaker Impedance | 4Ω or 8Ω recommended |
| Efficiency | Up to ~89% (when driving an 8Ω speaker at 1.5W) |
| Inputs | Fully differential audio inputs with onboard 1.0µF coupling capacitors |
| Output Topology | Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) speaker outputs (no speaker terminal to GND) |
| Output Signal Type | PWM switching output (~300 kHz), intended to drive speakers directly |
| Output Filter Requirement | No external output filter required (keep speaker wires ~2"–4" max) |
| Gain Settings | 4 selectable gains: 6 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 24 dB |
| Gain Control | Onboard dual mini DIP switch and/or G0 & G1 breakout pins |
| PSRR | 77 dB typ @ 217 Hz (with 6 dB gain) |
| Noise / Artifacts | Excellent click-and-pop suppression |
| Protection Features | Thermal shutdown and over-current protection |
| Channel Control | Independent channel shutdown |
Pinout
| Pin Name | Description |
|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply input (2.7V–5.5V DC). Higher voltage provides higher output power. No reverse polarity protection. |
| GND | Ground reference for power and audio signals. |
| LO+ | Left channel speaker output (+). Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) output — connect directly to speaker. |
| LO− | Left channel speaker output (−). Do not connect to ground. |
| RO+ | Right channel speaker output (+). Bridge-Tied Load (BTL) output — connect directly to speaker. |
| RO− | Right channel speaker output (−). Do not connect to ground. |
| SDL | Shutdown control for left channel. Pull to GND to disable left channel. Pulled up to VDD by default. |
| SDR | Shutdown control for right channel. Pull to GND to disable right channel. Pulled up to VDD by default. |
| L+ | Left channel audio input (+). Differential input. |
| L− | Left channel audio input (−). Tie to GND for single-ended audio. |
| R+ | Right channel audio input (+). Differential input. |
| R− | Right channel audio input (−). Tie to GND for single-ended audio. |
| Speaker Compatibility | Use 4Ω or 8Ω speakers only. Recommended power rating: ≥3W for 4Ω, ≥2W for 8Ω. |
| Important Note | Speaker outputs are not line-level and must not be connected to another amplifier or to ground. |
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