Texas Instruments

[ecc83]

They have changed the specifications of the venerable NE5532.
Supply rating down from +&-22V to +&- 18V'
Slew rate now 5V/uSec
Input devices now NPN
Input protection diodes removed.
The OP AMP is now effectively the lesser, RC4558 chip OR! maybe it actual now IS just that?

All this done with no advanced warning and no change of specc sheets. There is a discussion about this over at www.soundonsound.com

Dave.

 

[PorterhouseMusic]

I don't know anything about this or why it is significant or notable. Short of asking AI - can you say why?

 

[ecc83]

I don't know anything about this or why it is significant or notable. Short of asking AI - can you say why?

I tried to post this in the DIY section but for some reason I couldn't so I thought the "Analogue" chaps would be the next interested group?
The NE5532 has long been a staple device in high quality audio. I am sure our own Sweetbeats can reel off a dozen machines and mixers that use them? Any change in their ratings could have a profound effect on the performance of a lot of gear if replacements are needed. Many audio firms are still using this IC since its performance is still very,very good at a very competitive price.

Dave

 

[PorterhouseMusic]

Understood- thanks

 

[sweetbeats]

Dave if data sheets at places like Mouser or Digikey reflect this change then honestly I’d just reach out to a support tech with either vendor and ask. It will need to go through steps to be elevated, but the question itself should drive the elevation. FWIW I’ve seen a variety ratings for the 5532 over the years…depending on the manufacturer the max input power, for instance, has ranged from +/-18V to +/-22V for decades. So I’m not surprised to see that. What I am surprised to read here is that the TI spec is now +/-18V. I’ve not looked into this or read anymore about it other than what I’ve read in this thread so I know nothing. It’s possible TI is no longer manufacturing them and they are sourcing them overseas and using parts that have the lower spec; complete conjecture on my part. But JRC parts, for instance, were always +/-18V. I know there are other crucial differences you cited, I’m just focusing on that one for an example. I’ve always leaned toward TI-branded parts when needing to replace like for like because I’ve found them to perform better than the JRC parts.

 

[ecc83]

Dave if data sheets at places like Mouser or Digikey reflect this change then honestly I’d just reach out to a support tech with either vendor and ask. It will need to go through steps to be elevated, but the question itself should drive the elevation. FWIW I’ve seen a variety ratings for the 5532 over the years…depending on the manufacturer the max input power, for instance, has ranged from +/-18V to +/-22V for decades. So I’m not surprised to see that. What I am surprised to read here is that the TI spec is now +/-18V. I’ve not looked into this or read anymore about it other than what I’ve read in this thread so I know nothing. It’s possible TI is no longer manufacturing them and they are sourcing them overseas and using parts that have the lower spec; complete conjecture on my part. But JRC parts, for instance, were always +/-18V. I know there are other crucial differences you cited, I’m just focusing on that one for an example. I’ve always leaned toward TI-branded parts when needing to replace like for like because I’ve found them to perform better than the JRC parts.

Hi Sweetbeats, this...https://www.headphonesty.com/2026/07/industry-trusted-op-amp-rebuilt-boards-failing/?utm_source=fb&utm_campaign=comment
is just one of several links in the thread that might shed some light?

Dave.