May 20, 2021

GaN Systems Inc of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (a fabless developer of gallium nitride-based power switching semiconductors for power conversion and control applications) says that its transistors are being used in Syng’s Cell Alpha wireless speaker. Audio company Syng was founded by former Apple designer Christopher Stringer (who helped to develop the HomePod, iPhone, iPad and MacBook) and entrepreneur Damon Way (co-founder of DC Shoes and Incase). The brand has debuted its high-fidelity spatial sound system for the home audio marketplace. The Cell Alpha features two woofers in opposing configuration; three-element, two-way beamforming array; and three built-in microphones that can calibrate the audio to a room’s acoustics. Multiple Cell Alphas can also be networked for surround sound. “With GaN power semiconductors, our designers were able to build something entirely new and revolutionary without being hindered by an inferior power supply,” comments Dave Turnbull, Syng’s head of engineering. GaN Systems says that the recent collaboration with Syng highlights the growing use of GaN in the audio market, from amplifiers to companion power supplies. By replacing legacy silicon transistors with GaN, audio companies can make vast design improvements including higher audio quality, smaller size, more power, and higher efficiency, the firm adds. The Cell Alpha’s sound and features stem from its unique design, which requires extreme performance from the electronics – they must fit into a small space and deliver huge transients while generating minimal heat. GaN Systems says that this type of challenge is a fitting application for its transistors, which offer what is claimed to be unparalleled switching performance in an extremely small package. The Cell Alpha’s internal power supply uses GaN Systems 650V and 100V transistors in a design that is optimized to meet Syng’s demanding technical requirements at low cost and eliminates the need for a heatsink or external cooling.