TDA7052 VS LM386 Question

[tubbytwo]

Is there any advantage in using the older, LM 386 over the TDA7052? The Phillips TDA seems to be a great amp chip with low draw and higher output, not to mention just about completely self contained. Of course it costs three times as much. Anyone have any experience with it?

[audioguru]

Hi Tubby,
The TDA7052 has much more power output than the LM386. With a 6V supply and with a whopping clipped 10% distortion, the TDA7052 produces 1.2W and the LM386 produces only 325mW into an 8 ohm speaker.
Of course the TDA7052 produces more power and costs more: it is a bridged amplifier.

Advantages:
1) More power with a supply up to 6V.
2) It doesn't need a big output capacitor.

Disadvantages:
1) The TDA7052 will melt if it is driven at continuous full output into an 8 ohm speaker with a 9V supply.
2) The idle current could be as high as 20.5mA with a 6V supply if it is at its max output offset voltage of 100mV.
3) Fairly high distortion.

[tubbytwo]

Well I tried this TDA7052 and side by side the LM386 sounds way better. It didn't get warm with 9 Volts but also didn't sound any better then 6 Volts either. It is a little more distorted but to be honest, I think the LM is louder. Same 8 Ohm speaker, same 9 Volt (8.6V) battery. The two or three extra parts for the LM are well worth it.

The $1.40 TDA7052 1

[audioguru]

Nice comparison.
But you didn't blow it up like they do on Mythbusters. ;D