Linux-Based Audio Platform with Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5

By Vinod Khera

May 5, 2025

A Linux-based audio platform with Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5 enables rapid algorithm development, reducing time to market.

The audio technology sector is progressing swiftly, largely driven by a rising demand for intelligent, immersive, and energy-efficient audio solutions. Linux plays a significant role in this rapidly evolving field of audio technology, primarily because most of its audio tools for production and development are open-source and free. Its open architecture empowers developers to sidestep proprietary solutions, facilitating customization and code reuse across various projects without the burden of expensive redevelopment.

To harness the benefits of Linux for low-latency digital signal processing (DSP) tasks, such as live sound, music production, and embedded audio applications—Cadence, a leader in audio technology with CIX Technology and Radxa, has introduced a new Linux-based audio development platform called Orion O6. Leveraging single-core HiFi 5 in CIX P1 SoC, this platform capitalizes on the strengths of Linux while enabling real-time audio processing, making it ideal for low-latency DSP tasks. This blog explores how the Orion O6 platform, built on Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs, supports audio developers and the broader community in efficiently and effectively deploying advanced audio algorithms.

How to Innovate at Speed and Reduce TTM?

Audio developers need to adopt platforms that facilitate the quick implementation of audio algorithms, enabling rapid proof of concept (PoC)design. This approach helps accelerate innovation in the audio industry and reduces time to market (TTM). An effective audio development platform includes software development tools, customized system-on-chip (SoC) architecture, and digital signal processors (DSPs). To streamline the deployment of complex audio algorithms and ensure timely product development, the development board or platform should include key features that support these goals.

• Flexibility with optimal resource utilization
• Scalability for new audio features
• Effective I/O signal routing management
• Support for real-time processing

Cadence Enriching the Ecosystem: Tools for Third-Party Innovation

Designed with the Tensilica HiFi 5 DSP capabilities in mind, Orion O6 offers a highly optimized, scalable, and low-power digital audio interface solution that makes integration faster and easier, empowering audio developers to innovate without compromise. Unlike traditional single-board computers (SBCs), which typically lack dedicated hardware DSPs, the Orion O6 sets itself apart by incorporating Cadence Tensilica HiFi5 DSP. This development addresses a significant market demand for high-performance solutions and strengthens Cadence’s position in the audio technology sector.

It provides a user-friendly Linux-based development environment, and its capability to quickly create PoC facilitates prompt product development, making it an ideal choice for audio algorithm implementation. Leveraging the fast audio processing capabilities of Tensilica HiFi 5 and the multitasking features of Arm V9 architecture, Orion O6 provides developers with a unique combination of performance, flexibility, and affordability. This platform offers all the necessary tools for innovation and success for prototyping, from groundbreaking AI audio applications to creating immersive multimedia experiences. With the Tensilica HiFi 5 and Arm V9 architecture, this platform sets a new standard for high-performance, low-latency audio solutions. It empowers professionals to bring new features and products to market quickly.

Why Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5 DSP?

Cadence Tensilica HiFi DSPs are utilized across various markets, including True Wireless Stereo (TWS) devices, smart speakers, mobile phones, consumer electronics, and the automotive. Many SoC vendors, such as NXP, MediaTek, and Airoha, are among those that use Tensilica HiFi DSPs. The Tensilica HiFi 5 DSP is particularly recognized for its impressive performance, energy efficiency, and extensive software ecosystem, which is backed by over 200 partners. It addresses the growing need for sophisticated audio processing to support traditional DSP tasks, artificial intelligence, and machine learning (AI/ML) applications. It specifically targets the more demanding audio processing required to give users a high-quality audio and immersive experience. Tensilica HiFi 5 can meld AI/ML processing with traditional digital signal processing at high-performance levels. Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs further help to improve the time to market (TTM) and reduce the development cost. The Tensilica HiFi 5s DSPs are software compatible, and any development done on HiFi 5 will also be applicable to HiFi 5s. It will help customer make architecture decisions for their future SoC.

Final Thoughts

The Orion O6 platform offers developers a distinctive blend of performance, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. It helps develop prototypes for AI audio applications with its low-latency performance, robust processor, and open-source Linux environment, it is crucial for experienced developers and novices in audio development. The extensive ecosystem of the Orion O6 encourages seamless experimentation and creativity.

Learn more about the Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5 at Tensilicatools.com