Convention Paper
On RIAA Equalization Networks
AES Convention 61 · Paper 1424 · November 1978
Abstract
Most current disc preamplifiers have audibly inaccurate RIAA equalization. This severely limits any conclusions which can be drawn from A/B testing of such preamplifiers. These errors are due in part to the perpetuation in print of incorrect formulae for the design of the RIAA equalization networks commonly employed. Other factors include the existence of an uncorrected HF zero too close to the top of the audio band in many non-inverting designs, and failure to take adequate account of the limited available loop gain. The situation is surveyed and tables, taking in account the above problems, are given for the design of both inverting and non-inverting RIAA de-emphasis and pre-emphasis circuits. Examples are furnished to illustrate the various configurations.
