"Naked" Z-foil audio resistor reduces distortion, noise in signal processing

Vishay Intertechnology has announced an ultra-high-precision Z-foil audio resistor featuring a special "naked Z-foil resistor" design that is claimed to increase clarity in audio signal processing applications. Built on the company's Bulk Metal Z-foil technology, the Vishay audio resistor (VAR) is designed without molding or encapsulation to reduce capacitance/inductance-induced signal distortion in precision and high-end audio applications.

According to the company, the part is optimized for differential amplifiers, power supplies, and as feedback, loading, and gain resistors in high-precision amplifiers, high-end speaker systems and audio circuits, transducers, and high-fidelity audio amplifiers. Key specifications include a typical TCR of ±0.2 ppm/°C from -55°C to +125°C, a PCR (ΔR due to self heating) of 5 ppm at rated power, an absolute tolerance of 0.01%, and current noise of < -40 dB.

Other specifications include a load-life stability of ±0.01% for 2000 hours at +70°C, a voltage coefficient of < 0.1 ppm/V, a thermal EMF of < 0.05 µV/°C, and a resistance range of 10 Ω to 100 kΩ, with any value at any tolerance available through calibration. Rise time is 1.0 ns without ringing and inductance is typically < 0.08 µH. Rated power is to 0.4 W at +70°C.

The VAR is available with lead (Pb)-free or tin/lead alloy terminal finishes. Samples and production quantities are available now, with lead times of 72 hours for samples, and three weeks for standard orders. Pricing for U.S. delivery starts at $4.26.

Vishay Intertechnology, 402-563-6320, www.vishay.com

Related links:
VAR (Z-Foil) resistors datasheet (PDF)
Bulk Metal Foil Resistors for Audio Applications (PDF)
Audio Noise Reduction Capabilities Brochure (PDF)
Bulk Metal Foil Resistor Demonstration Background (PDF)