Hypex Electronics is a Dutch electronics company known for its Class D audio amplifier modules. These employ a control method called Universal class D (UcD), invented by Bruno Putzeys and patented by Philips.[1]
History
The company was formed in 1996.[2] Hypex began producing the UcD in the early 2000s after Philips declined to use Putzeys' technology in its own product range. By 2004, the company had produced a 180-watt Class-D amplifier on a 40-square-centimetre (6.2 sq in) board with around 0.02% total harmonic distortion. Putzeys joined Hypex full-time in 2005, and began working on UcD's follow-up, the NCore, with an improved reduction in distortion with 92% efficiency.[1]
Products
Hypex modules can be found in some high-end audio products,[3][4] including NAD Electronics (who produce customised versions of the original Hypex UcD)[5][6] or in musical instrument amplifiers.[7] The TEAC AX-505 amplifier is driven by a Hypex Class D nCore,[8] as is the NAD Master Series M10 streaming amplifier.[9]
The NCore 400 is available in kit form, that allows the module to be used in lower-end equipment.[10] It supports a signal-to-noise ratio of 125 decibels and a switching speed of 470-530 kilohertz.[11]
Manufacturing
The company has its own production facility based in Malaysia. The first factory was established in Simpang Empat in 2011, moving to Parit Buntar in 2017.[2]