The MA-3 is the third SMAF-compatible audio LSI to be released by Yamaha. As well as incorporating all the features of the MA-2, it boasts various improved functions that further extend the possibilities for creation of mobile content.

In addition to its built-in FM sound generator, the MA-3 also incorporates an ADPCM/PCM sound generator which enables the reproduction of digitally recorded natural sounds, such as human voices. As a result, it is possible to author content which combines a person's voice and his image. In addition, the MA-3 can precisely synchronize compressed audio from its ADPCM/PCM sound generator with performances that use the FM sound generator. This feature can be used to provide a backing chorus for a melody.

In addition to its built-in FM synthesizer, the MA-3 also incorporates a waveform table synthesizer which can generate up to eight voices simultaneously. Waveform data can be downloaded from either ROM or RAM. Since waveforms can be set arbitrarily for FM operation, the range of tones which can be generated is much greater than on conventional devices.

The MA-3 adopts a stereophonic hybrid synthesizer system which allows the simultaneous generation of up to 40 tones: 32 FM tones plus eight waveform table tones. This feature can be used either to create 40-note harmonies or to play notes with 40 different timbres. In addition, the MA-3 provides a standard library of 256 instruments (including the 128 instruments specified by the General MIDI standard) and an unlimited range of voices.

The MA-3 incorporates a built-in hardware sequencer which can reproduce music data with little CPU overhead. Hence, the LSI can reliably play back complex melodies in synchronization, and still leave the CPU relatively free to perform other processing. The MA-3 also features a sound vibration function which can control a mobile phone's vibration timing. Using this function, vibrations can be synchronized with the beat of music accompanying a mobile phone-based game.

The MA-3 includes a built-in amplifier for driving dynamic speakers which delivers an output power level of 580 mW. The chip also includes a built-in equalizer circuit which compensates for the frequency characteristics of a speaker or handset. Despite these advanced features, the MA-3 is contained in a miniature package, allowing its easy incorporation into the design of a mobile device.

Major Features		Stereophonic hybrid synthesizer system Improved fundamental FM waveforms and algorithms Default tones for FM and waveform table synthesizers stored in ROM. Tones can be downloaded to RAM. Polyphony: 40-note polyphony (40 independent sounds can be generated simultaneously: 32 FM tones + 8 waveform table tones.) Sampling rates for PCM/ADPCM playback: 4 kHzÆ48 kHz Hardware sequencer Stereo D/A converter Speaker amplifier (maximum output: 580 mW at 3.6 V) Equalizer circuit to optimize frequency characteristics of sound for speakers Analog stereo headphone output Powerdown mode PLL supporting master clock input of 2 MHzÆ20 MHz
Power Supply		Analog system power supply for speaker amplifier: 2.7 V to 4.5 V Power supply for all other systems: 2.7 V to 3.3 V
Fabrication Process		CMOS
Package		32-pin plastic QFN

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Sound Chips and Handsets