The LM358 and LM741 op-amps are well-known to most engineers, but the NE5532 op-amp may be a better choice in some higher frequency applications where lower noise is required. This component is one option that provides greater noise suppression and higher bandwidth than other standard op-amps, whether you're designing for pro audio, pro video, sensor interfacing, or vibration measurement.

The NE5532, like many components that are not branded by a specific manufacturer, comes in a variety of variants. Some are manufacturer-specific, with an alphanumeric string attached, but the majority are based on standardized variant components. As a result, some specifications in a NE5532 datasheet may differ between manufacturers. However, there are some specifications that all NE5532 components, regardless of manufacturer, must meet.

When you need to find technical specs for a NE5532 op-amp for your new system, you should use a service that provides a NE5532 datasheet for a variety of different variants. When you can get sourcing information for a NE5532 alongside datasheets, CAD models, and lifecycle information, you can avoid redesigns. Here's what to look for in a NE5532 datasheet, as well as how these components compare to other op-amp ICs.

What’s in the NE5532 Datasheet

NE5532, like many other components produced by multiple manufacturers, does not have a specific product brand. Each manufacturer creates their own variants (both through-hole and surface-mount components). The following information will be found on any NE5532 datasheet.

Dimensions of the PCB footprint

These components come in PDIP/CDIP, SO, and SOIC packages. These packages' dimensions are shown in the NE5532 datasheets, allowing you to create your own footprints if desired. The SOIC package employs a gullwing lead, making it difficult to create a 3D model for the component.

Electrical specifications. The technical specifications in a NE5532 datasheet are too numerous to list here. In general, the NE5532 operates with a supply voltage of up to 22 V and a high DC gain.

Circuit and application diagrams. In a NE5532 datasheet, you'll typically find the actual circuit diagram for one of the op-amp stages. Furthermore, a typical application diagram will provide you with a good starting point for building a larger system around your designs.

The two primary variants of the NE5532 are the SE5532 and SA5532; these variants, like many other ICs, have their own manufacturer-specific variants (e.g., 7400 series ICs). If you search for a SE5532 or SA5532 datasheet, you will find a NE5532 datasheet. This is due to the fact that the only difference between these components is their rated temperature ranges.

Aside from these distinctions, these three components are essentially the same and will employ the same suffixes to denote different packages and features. If you're considering a different op-amp, such as a 7400 series or LM358, compare the critical specifications because these ICs are similar.

NE5532 vs. LM358

The NE5532 and LM358 are both dual-channel op-amps in a single package, which makes them similar. Depending on the manufacturer, they also have similar footprints. Although Texas Instruments is well-known for producing both components, ON Semiconductor and NXP also produce their own NE5532 models. These components all perform the same basic functions and are marketed as “low-noise” operational amplifiers. In PDIP/CPID packages, these two components even have the same pinout.

So, what are the distinctions between these components? Instead of letting you sift through an LM358 and NE5532 datasheet, the table below highlights some key specifications where these two components differ.

The gain-bandwidth product and CMRR values for the NE5532 are significantly higher than those for the LM358. The frequency response spectrum has a flat rolloff to 100 kHz, which covers the entire range of human hearing as well as ultrasonic frequencies. Because the gain difference between these components is only a factor of two, the NE5532 is perfectly capable of accepting and amplifying low-level signals. This makes the NE5532 a better choice for pro audio, video transcoding, vibration measurement, and other applications requiring high gain and low noise. One useful application of a NE5532 is pre-amplification before A/D conversion.