Intel unveils High Definition Audio specification

Posted on Saturday, January 10 2004 @ 20:55 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Intel his next-generation audio specification for onboard audio chips, previously codenamed "Azalia" has got a new name: Intel High Definition Audio. High Definition Audio is ment to bring CE-quality audio to Personal computers. Currently the High Definition Audio specification is at Rev 0.9 level and Intel expects to release the final specification by midyear under royalty-free license terms.

Intel his next chipset, the Grantsdale, will feature this new audio specification which is based on the same cost-sensitive principles as AC'97. The name is meant to reflect the marriage of advanced audio capabilities in PCs and consumer electronics according to Intel.
Developed by Intel with broad support from PC and CE manufacturers, codec vendors, software providers and other industry players, High Definition Audio is built on a flexible, dynamic, cost-effective and stable architecture with headroom for future expansion.

"The PC is a versatile platform for digital media and is playing an increasingly large role in DVD-Audio, streaming music services and home theater applications" said Intel's Kevin Corbett, vice president of the Desktop Platforms Group and director of marketing and strategic planning.

High Definition Audio will not only provide an enriched playback experience but is intended to deliver a better-quality input for voice and communication applications. The enablement of higher-quality audio is attributed in part to an upgraded architecture and increased bandwidth that allows for 192 kHz, 32-bit, multi-channel audio and support for evolving high-quality audio formats. Other means are increased support for multi-channel array microphones for higher quality input, dynamically allocated bandwidth and audio device configuration flexibility.

"High Definition Audio elevates PC audio to an authentic home theater surround sound experience that opens up a whole new world of PC entertainment possibilities," said Greg Rodehau, Dolby's director of PC technology marketing. "We are delighted Intel has chosen to demonstrate the multichannel audio capabilities of High Definition Audio using Dolby's newest innovation, Dolby Pro Logic IIx* technology, which delivers the most natural, seamless and immersing 7.1 surround listening experience from any native 2-channel source."


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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