Raspberry Pi enthusiast and Hackaday user Bram has created an awesome portable music player powered by the tiny Raspberry Pi Zero mini PC and a custom PCB which can be seen below and is now available to purchase direct from Tindie.
Finished with a 3D printed case, the open-source portable music player project has been published to Hackaday and is equipped with a 2.2 inch display offering a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. This compact and efficient design makes it a perfect companion for music lovers who appreciate both technology and portability.
Why Create a Custom Music Player?
“I made this music player because I wasn’t satisfied with the current playback methods that are available. The music streaming services available started to feel like radio stations with the same music repeating, they are also dependent on an online internet connection. While there might be offline functionality, it is still limited by the available storage on your phone,” Bram explains. This sentiment resonates with many audiophiles who seek more control over their music libraries and playback options.
In addition to the limitations of streaming services, there is also the issue of audio quality. Many streaming platforms compress audio files to save bandwidth, which can result in a loss of sound quality. By using a dedicated music player with high-quality components, users can enjoy their music in the best possible fidelity.
Technical Specifications and Features
The Raspberry Pi Zero portable music player is not just a simple DIY project; it is packed with features that make it a robust and versatile device. Here are some of the key components and specifications:
– Raspberry Pi Zero: The heart of the music player, this mini PC is known for its small size and powerful capabilities.
– Custom PCB: Designed specifically for this project, the custom PCB integrates all necessary components seamlessly.
– 2.2 Inch Display: With a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, this display provides clear and vibrant visuals for navigating your music library.
– PCM5102A 24-bit I2S DAC: This high-quality digital-to-analog converter ensures excellent audio output.
– 3.5mm Jack: Standard headphone jack for easy connectivity to a wide range of audio devices.
– 3D Printed Case: Custom-designed to house all components securely while maintaining a sleek and portable form factor.
The project also includes detailed instructions on how to assemble the music player, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive experience with electronics or programming. The open-source nature of the project encourages modifications and improvements, allowing users to tailor the device to their specific needs and preferences.
Building Your Own Music Player
For those interested in building their own Raspberry Pi Zero portable music player, Bram has provided comprehensive instructions and resources on the Hackaday project page. The guide covers everything from sourcing components to assembling the hardware and installing the necessary software.
One of the standout features of this project is its flexibility. Users can customize the software to include additional features such as equalizers, playlists, and even internet radio functionality. The use of a Raspberry Pi also opens up possibilities for integrating other projects, such as home automation systems or smart assistants.
Jump over to the Hackaday project page for more details and full instructions on how to create your very own complete with PCM5102A a 24-bit I2S DAC and a 3.5mm jack.
Source: Hackaday
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
