LM386N Low Voltage Audio Power Amplifier Pack of 10 - Compact

Our review of the LM386N pack focuses on hobbyists and small-system builders who need a low-voltage, low-power audio amplifier they can deploy in multiples. The bottom line is straightforward: this pack of 10 LM386N DIP-8 chips offers a compact, easy-to-use amplifier stage with a built-in gain of 20 that reduces parts count and complexity. It is especially useful for battery-powered radios, recorders, and DIY speaker projects because the chip biases its output to half supply and draws only a few milliamps at idle, making it economical for portable designs.

Key Features

• Low voltage operation: Operates across a 4-12V range so it can run directly from typical battery packs or small bench supplies without extra regulation.
• Built-in gain: Internal gain of 20 reduces external components and speeds up circuit assembly for prototyping and small runs.
• Adjustable gain option: Adding an external resistor and capacitor between pins 1 and 8 lets builders increase gain up to 200 for higher output without changing the core design.
• Low standby consumption: Static current is minimal (about 4mA), which minimizes battery drain for always-on or standby audio circuits.
• DIP-8 package: The 8-lead DIP form factor is breadboard-friendly and straightforward to solder into perf boards or sockets for iterative designs.
• Pack quantity: Supplied as a pack of 10, which is convenient for small workshops, classroom kits, or multi-channel projects.

Who It's For

This LM386N pack is ideal for electronics students, DIY audio hobbyists, and makers assembling simple amplifiers for radios, portable speakers, or educational kits. The DIP-8 package and modest peripheral needs make it a strong choice when quick prototyping and low parts count are priorities.

It is less suitable for high-power or audiophile-grade systems where dedicated power amplifiers with higher output and lower distortion are required. Professional installations that need heatsinking and greater thermal management should consider purpose-built power amplifier ICs instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Small and easy to use in breadboard and perf-board projects thanks to the DIP-8 package.
• Low idle current makes it practical for battery-powered designs and portable applications.
• Built-in gain simplifies circuits, and external components allow flexible gain increase up to 200 when needed.

Cons

• Not designed for high-power audio applications; output is best for small speakers or headphone-level drives.

Specifications

Brand	BOJACK
Model	LM386N
Operating voltage	4-12V
Static power consumption	4mA (about 24mW at 6V)
Package type	8-lead dual in-line (DIP-8)
Built-in voltage gain	20 (adjustable to 200 with external parts)
Quantity	Pack of 10

Our Verdict

The LM386N pack is a practical, budget-friendly option for anyone building low-voltage audio circuits or teaching amplifier fundamentals. Its low idle current, breadboard-ready DIP-8 package, and adjustable gain make it good value for hobby projects and small electronics labs. Those needing higher output power or audiophile fidelity should look to larger amplifier solutions, but for portable radios and simple speaker projects this pack delivers predictable, usable results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these run from a 9V battery?
Yes, the LM386N supports up to 12V and will operate from a 9V battery; expect low idle draw but limited output power appropriate for small speakers.

How do you increase the gain?
Place an external resistor and capacitor between pins 1 and 8 to raise the voltage gain up to 200 as the circuit documentation describes.

Is this package easy to prototype with?
Yes, the 8-lead DIP form factor is ideal for breadboards and sockets, making assembly and testing straightforward.