The TAC5X12-Q1 family consists of two pairs of analog output pins (OUTxP and OUTxM). For headset applications, these pins can be configured as differential or single-ended outputs for playback channels. See Figure 2-8 to Figure 2-11 for the various typical output configurations. The TAC5X12-Q1 family automatically measures the load, whether 16Ω, 32Ω, 10kΩ, etc. and adjusts the output swing.

Figure 2-8 Differential DC-Coupled Output

Figure 2-9 Mono Single-ended DC-Coupled Output

Figure 2-10 Pseudo-Differential Output

Figure 2-11 Single-ended AC-Coupled Output

Most consumer-grade headphones are single-ended designs (3.5mm/6.35mm interface, requiring only one signal path + ground wire). If using a codec to drive headphones, single-ended mode should be selected. For headset/headphone applications, single-ended AC-coupling is recommended.

For DC-coupled applications, pseudo-differential mode is recommended, because the single-ended mode will contain a DC common-mode voltage. This results in high power consumption, and hence DC-coupled single-ended mode is not recommended.