DirectDrive stereo headphone amp — no DC-blocking caps needed
The Maxim Integrated MAX9722BETE is a Class AB stereo headphone amplifier from the DirectDrive series, delivering 130 mW per channel into a 32 Ω load. Its DirectDrive architecture generates a regulated negative supply on-chip, eliminating the pair of large DC-blocking output coupling capacitors that conventional single-supply headphone amps require. That shrinks the BOM by two electrolytic or film capacitors and removes the low-frequency roll-off they introduce, giving flat response down to DC. Packaged in a 16-pin WFQFN with exposed pad (3 mm x 3 mm TQFN-EP), it mounts on a standard surface-mount footprint.
Active production, RoHS non-compliant — sourcing reality
That means no last-time-buy pressure for ongoing builds or new designs. However, the part is marked RoHS non-compliant — it contains lead (Pb) in the solder terminations or die-attach material. This is a hard constraint for any BOM destined for EU RoHS markets, WEEE-regulated regions, or contract manufacturers that enforce full RoHS compliance. For designs that can accept a leaded process (military, aerospace, some industrial, or exempt medical equipment), the part remains a clean fit. For RoHS-mandated builds, you would need to qualify an alternative or secure a specific exemption.