Cypress’s PSoC 3 device powers hot new GuitarJack model 2 from Sonoma Wireworks

SAN JOSE, USA: Cypress Semiconductor Corp. announced that Sonoma Wire Works has selected the PSoC 3 programmable system-on-chip for its new GuitarJack Model 2. The GuitarJack Model 2 is a digital audio interface accessory product that connects a musical instrument, microphone, or audio hardware with iPod touch, iPhone or iPad. The PSoC 3 device in the GuitarJack seamlessly manages the digital audio interface and handles Apple’s proprietary MFi protocol to communicate with iOS devices.

GuitarJack Model 2 is optimally designed to work with Sonoma Wire Works iOS apps including GuitarTone, FourTrack, StudioTrack, and TaylorEQ, as well as Apple’s GarageBand. It streams digital audio out of and into Apple’s latest iOS devices, including iPad 2, iPad, iPhone 4, and iPod touch (2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation).

It offers stereo recording and simultaneous voice and instrument recording via Apple’s proprietary connector. Since GuitarJack Model 2 is fully synchronous between iOS and PSoC 3, it maintains high quality audio streaming with no dropped audio packets. It can be powered directly by the iOS device and does not need its own power supply or batteries.

The PSoC 3 device manages the interface between GuitarJack Model 2 and any iOS device via Apple’s proprietary dock connector. With Cypress’s patent-pending clock synchronization and recovery scheme, PSoC 3 also delivers the highest quality digital audio with minimal external components while supporting multiple audio sample rates.

“It’s an exciting time for the music creation and instruments market,” said Leon Tan, marketing manager for Cypress’s MFi solutions. “With a large installed base of iOS devices in the market today, and growing at an unprecedented rate, Sonoma Wire Works is able to quickly capitalize on that with its unique ability to create high-quality hardware and software audio products that the music industry demands. We’re excited that the PSoC 3 technology advantages are well suited for this market.”

“PSoC 3’s unique, patent-pending technology enables digitally streaming audio between iOS devices and connected accessories,” said Gahan Richardson, VP of PSoC platform products for Cypress. “This enables Sonoma Wire Works to deliver an exciting, versatile product with great sound for music enthusiasts.”

“PSoC 3’s low power; flexible architecture; and high-quality USB audio solution helped Sonoma Wire Works upgrade GuitarJack from its predecessor (Model 1 to Model 2),” said Douglas Wright, founder and president of Sonoma Wire Works. “Together with GuitarTone, Model 2 provides the complete package for musicians to create music here, there and everywhere.”