Actually the AD1861 is an 18 bit PCM "self contained" DAC chip that will operate on plus and minus 5 volts at 10 ma per polarity.All that is required to make it go is the input receiver (Crystal chip),digital filter if I MUST use one (up to 16X oversampling) and the output filter,either LC or transformer + capacitor.I got it because I am trying to make a portable DAC/Headphone amp combo and this looks like a good solution due to the voltage/current requirements and the output stage is built in.
The other DACs in contention are the AD1866,a dual 16 bit and the AD1868, a dual 18 bit design.Both operate on a SINGLE +5 volt supply.
Options,always options.
For home use/main DAC I am leaning towards the AD1865 @ 18 bits,also a dual DAC chip.
But this stuff can be a bi*ch to DIY from scratch so the going is slow
BTW-Sheldons designs are real nice,he put a lot of time into those designs (PCB layout etc) .I just chose a different path,as usual !
Good luck with the DAC
Rick
posted 07-31-2000 07:33 PM CST (US) 
