One-bit audio: An overview

An overview of 1-bit audio processing is presented. Several characteristics of the sigma-delta modulator (SDM), currently the most often used device to generate 1-bit code, are discussed, as well as some simple design methodologies of SDMs. It is shown that 1-bit audio is capable of carrying very high-quality audio. The total audio production chain, from recording to replay, is displayed and its feasibility demonstrated. Finally, some recent developments in the field of 1-bit audio codecs are summarized, which show a further improvement over the already excellent audio characteristics of the SDM.