

The LM386 is a low power audio frequency amplifier which is very commonly used in small audio amplifiers. The IC consumes very less power and hence can be operated using a 9V battery easily. It can easily drive an 8-ohm speaker with a variable gain of 20 to200. Volume control and gain control is also possible in this. The IC comes in a 8-pin PDIP package and requires very less components to function hence it is highly easy to use.
So, if you are looking for an audio amplifier IC which can be powered using a battery for a portable application to drive an 8-ohm speaker then this IC might be the right choice for you. For driving heavy speakers you have to use the power amplifier ICs.
More technical details and LM386 specifications can be found in the LM386 datasheet attached at the bottom of the article.
LM380
LM4871, AD620, IC6283, JRC4558,