Audio Brick Dual DAC prototype

I just got my hands on the new Audio Brick prototype, which is the first in the ESP32 family that has two DACs on the board.

Both DACs use the same I2S bus, so they are exposed as a single device to the application, but having the second DAC has its benefits. The main motivation for this change is to allow flexible configuration based on specific project needs, since each of the 4 channels allows precise filter configuration. This makes possible

• 2x full-size speakers with EQ correction + more powerful subwoofer channel with filter and gain settings
• 4x speakers with individual EQ and gain settings to create audio imaging effects
• Each DAC drives a single channel with double the power
• Each DAC drivers single speaker in a bi-amp configuration and individual speaker filter settings
• Both DACs drive a 4-way system with precise high-, low-, and bandpass filters

At the moment, it will only work with ESPHome/Home Assistant, since no other software I know of would handle two DACs. Therefore, only the ESP32-S3 version is planned.

Among other improvements, I added a small software-fan connector, so you can gradually switch it on through software if the DAC reports overheating (although it is not easy to achieve with 90% efficiency), and also read back the fan speed.

Also, I replaced the OLED connector with TFT, looking at the latest changes in the Sendspin component, which allow sending album art and track position information to the device.

I’m currently in the middle of testing it with the ESPHome component, and will provide a more detailed demonstration later on.

Availability? I’m planning to launch the dual DAc version together with the standard version, as soon as all Crowd Supply orders are delivered, hopefully in July at the latest.

Let me know if you’re interested in beta testing!